Baba’s Zaporizhian Kozak Kapusniak (Sauerkraut Soup) is a traditional Ukrainian dish that is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for cold weather. This soup features sauerkraut, which gives it a distinctive tangy flavor, along with various meats and vegetables. Here’s a recipe to help you make this comforting soup at home.
Ingredients
- For the Soup:
- 1 lb (450 g) pork (shoulder or ribs), cut into chunks
- 1 lb (450 g) smoked sausage (like kielbasa), sliced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2-3 medium carrots, grated or diced
- 2-3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 jar (about 16 oz or 450 g) sauerkraut, drained (or homemade if you have it)
- 1-2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1 teaspoon dried dill (or fresh, if available)
- 6 cups water or broth (chicken or vegetable)
- Salt to taste
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil or lard (for sautéing)
- Fresh dill or parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
-
Prepare the Meat:
- In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil or lard over medium heat. Add the pork chunks and brown them on all sides. This will add flavor to the soup.
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Sauté the Vegetables:
- Once the pork is browned, add the chopped onion and grated carrots to the pot. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the onions are translucent.
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Add Liquid and Seasonings:
- Pour in the water or broth, and add the bay leaves, black peppercorns, and dried dill. Bring the mixture to a boil.
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Simmer the Soup:
- Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the pork is tender.
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Add Potatoes and Sauerkraut:
- Add the diced potatoes and sauerkraut to the pot. Continue to simmer for another 20-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are cooked through.
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Add Sausage:
- Stir in the sliced smoked sausage and let it heat through for about 5-10 minutes. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt if needed.
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Serve:
- Remove the bay leaves and peppercorns before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh dill or parsley if desired.
Tips:
- Variations: You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or celery for extra flavor. Some recipes also include tomatoes for a slightly different taste.
- Serving Suggestions: Kapusniak is often served with a slice of rye bread or a dollop of sour cream on top.
- Storage: The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Enjoy your Baba’s Zaporizhian Kozak Kapusniak! This soup is not only delicious but also a wonderful way to connect with Ukrainian culinary traditions.