Warm up with this cozy Kielbasa Soup, packed with smoky flavors and hearty veggies - the perfect comfort food for chilly days! 🥣🥔🥓
Ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 4 slices bacon, diced
- 14 oz kielbasa, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 4 medium potatoes, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (optional for a creamier soup)
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
1. Start by heating a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in the diced bacon and cook until it’s nice and crispy. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside, but don’t toss out those delicious drippings in the pot!
2. Now, add the sliced kielbasa to the same pot with the leftover bacon drippings. Sauté until the kielbasa is golden brown on both sides – about 3-4 minutes. Remove it and set aside with the bacon.
3. It’s time to add some veggies! Drizzle in olive oil, then toss in the chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-6 minutes until everything is softened. Add in the minced garlic and smoked paprika, cooking for another minute until your kitchen smells heavenly.
4. Next, add the diced potatoes and chicken broth to the mix. Bring everything to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the potatoes are fork-tender.
5. If you want a creamier soup, stir in the heavy cream now. Return the cooked kielbasa and half of the crispy bacon back to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to your taste.
6. Time to serve! Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with the remaining bacon and fresh parsley, and enjoy with some warm crusty bread for dipping!