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Polish Sauerkraut Soup

Warm Your Soul with Authentic Polish Sauerkraut Soup

Discover the comforting flavors of Polish Sauerkraut Soup, also known as Kapusniak, featuring tender pork ribs and tangy sauerkraut.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Polish
Calories: 300

Ingredients
  

For the Broth
  • 6 cups water Essential for creating the rich base of the soup.
  • 1 lb pork ribs Provides rich flavor and tenderness; substitute with chicken for a lighter taste.
For the Vegetables
  • 2 tbsp avocado oil Perfect for sautéing; can be replaced with olive oil.
  • 1 medium onion Minced, adds sweetness and depth; use shallots for a milder flavor.
  • 1 medium carrot Grated, contributes natural sweetness; chopped celery can be a great replacement.
  • 3 medium potatoes Cubed, adds heartiness; sweet potatoes offer a delightful twist.
For Flavor
  • 1 bay leaf Enhances the soup's flavor complexity; omit if unavailable.
  • 2 cups sauerkraut With juices, the key ingredient for tanginess; can substitute with fresh cabbage.
  • ¼ tsp cumin Adds earthy notes; try coriander if you need an alternative.
  • ½ tsp Italian seasoning Brings in herbal flavors; swap with a mix of dried basil and oregano if necessary.
  • ½ tsp smoked paprika Provides a smoky depth; sweet paprika can work if you prefer less smoke.
  • salt Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavors.
  • pepper Essential for seasoning and enhancing flavors.
For Serving
  • sour cream Optional but adds creaminess; Greek yogurt makes a good alternative.

Equipment

  • Large pot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Polish Sauerkraut Soup
  1. In a large pot, combine 6 cups of water and 1 pound of pork ribs, bringing it to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Allow the broth to cook for 1 hour, skimming off any foam that forms on the surface. Once done, carefully remove the pork ribs, shred the meat off the bones, and strain the broth through a fine sieve to maintain a clear and flavorful base for your Polish Sauerkraut Soup.
  2. In the same pot, heat 2 tablespoons of avocado oil over medium heat. Add 1 minced onion, sautéing it until it becomes translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Then, stir in 1 grated carrot and continue to cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and develop a golden color.
  3. Pour the strained broth back into the pot with the sautéed vegetables, bringing the mixture to a boil. Add in 3 cubed potatoes and 1 bay leaf, then stir in 2 cups of sauerkraut along with its juices. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender yet firm.
  4. Once the potatoes are ready, stir in the shredded pork along with ¼ teaspoon of cumin, ½ teaspoon of Italian seasoning, and ½ teaspoon of smoked paprika. Mix in the sautéed vegetables, ensuring everything is well combined. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
  5. Ladle the comforting Polish Sauerkraut Soup into bowls and finish with a dollop of sour cream for added creaminess, if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 25gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 75mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 15mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 2mg

Notes

Let the soup cool before storing it in airtight containers, lasting up to four days in the refrigerator or freezing for three months.

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