Polish Sauerkraut Soup (Kapustnica) – Cozy, Hearty & Comforting!

I’m so glad you’re here — and I truly mean that. Recipes like this one, passed down through generations and filled with rich, nourishing flavors, are meant to be shared with warmth and care. Whether you grew up eating Polish food or are simply craving something cozy and satisfying, this Polish Sauerkraut Soup (Kapustnica) is the kind of dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. 💛

Kapustnica is a rustic, tangy soup traditionally enjoyed in many Central and Eastern European homes — especially during colder months or around the holidays. With savory sausage, soft potatoes, fragrant spices, and that signature sauerkraut tang, it’s humble yet full of soul.

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What Is Kapustnica?

Kapustnica (sometimes called Polish sauerkraut soup) is a hearty, old-world soup made with sauerkraut, sausage, and potatoes, simmered together in broth and seasoned with warming spices. It’s traditionally served in Poland and Slovakia, especially during Christmas or New Year celebrations, but it’s just as wonderful on any cold day when comfort food is calling your name.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bold and tangy with layers of savory flavor
Naturally gluten-free and easy to adapt
Simple ingredients, big payoff
Quick cooking time — ready in about 30 minutes
One-pot wonder — easy cleanup, cozy results!

What Does It Taste Like?

Imagine spoonfuls of tender potatoes, smoky kielbasa, and rich broth, all balanced by the zing of sauerkraut. The soup is earthy and warming, with subtle spice and herbal notes. The sauerkraut adds a signature tang, while the carrots and onions bring natural sweetness that rounds it all out beautifully. If you add a little sour cream on top? Heaven.

Benefits of This Recipe

Filling and nutritious
Budget-friendly, pantry-staple ingredients
Great for meal prep or freezing
Packed with gut-healthy probiotics (from sauerkraut)
A wonderful make-ahead meal — tastes even better the next day!

🧂 Ingredients You’ll Need

2 tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
1 large carrot, shredded
3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
1 (14 oz) Kielbasa sausage, sliced
1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp salt
½ tsp black pepper
½ tsp cumin
6 cups chicken broth
1 bay leaf
2 cups sauerkraut, with its juices
Sour cream, for serving (optional but delicious)

🛠️ Tools You’ll Need

Large Dutch oven or soup pot
Sharp knife and cutting board
Wooden spoon or spatula
Ladle for serving
Measuring spoons and cups

🔄 Ingredient Additions & Substitutions

Additions:

Chopped mushrooms for earthiness
Bacon or smoked ham in place of sausage
A handful of white beans for extra protein
A splash of apple cider vinegar for more tang
A pinch of brown sugar to balance acidity

Substitutions:

Swap chicken broth for veggie broth to make it vegetarian (just skip the sausage too)
Use Yukon Gold potatoes for extra creaminess
Try turkey sausage for a lighter version
Sub sweet paprika if you don’t have smoked (but smoked adds depth!)

👩‍🍳 How to Make Polish Sauerkraut Soup (Kapustnica)

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables & Sausage

In a large Dutch oven, heat 2 tbsp olive oil over medium heat.
Add diced onion and sauté for 3–5 minutes until translucent.
Stir in sliced sausage, shredded carrot, and diced potatoes. Cook another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 2: Add Seasonings

Add:

1 tsp Italian seasoning
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp salt
½ tsp pepper
½ tsp cumin

Stir to coat the vegetables and sausage. Let cook for 1 minute to bloom the spices.

Step 3: Add Broth & Sauerkraut

Pour in 6 cups chicken broth and add 1 bay leaf.
Stir in 2 cups sauerkraut, making sure to include the juices — that’s where the flavor lives!

Step 4: Simmer

Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
Cover and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded beautifully.

Step 5: Serve & Enjoy

Ladle hot soup into bowls and top each with a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Serve with crusty rye bread or a simple green salad on the side.

🍽️ What to Serve With Kapustnica

Dark rye bread or sourdough for dipping
Polish pierogi for a traditional pairing
Roasted kielbasa or smoked meats on the side
Simple cucumber salad to cut through the richness
A glass of chilled white wine or even hot tea

💡 Tips for the Best Kapustnica

Don’t rinse the sauerkraut — its juice adds important tang and depth.
Want a thicker texture? Lightly mash a few of the potatoes after cooking.
Let it simmer longer for even deeper flavor.
Add a dash of vinegar or lemon juice to brighten the soup if it tastes too heavy.
The soup tastes even better the next day!

🧊 Storage & Reheating

Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Freeze cooled soup in individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheat: Gently warm on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes! Just use vegetable broth and omit the sausage — or replace it with smoked tofu or beans for protein.

Is this soup sour?

It’s tangy, not overly sour. If you prefer less tang, you can rinse the sauerkraut lightly — but I recommend using it with the juices for best flavor.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely. Sauté the veggies and sausage first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.

What kind of sausage should I use?

Kielbasa is the traditional choice — smoky, garlicky, and perfect for this dish. You can use pork, beef, turkey, or plant-based versions.

🥣 Final Thoughts

This Polish Sauerkraut Soup (Kapustnica) is warm, rustic, and full of character — just like the best comfort foods should be. It’s simple, satisfying, and endlessly nourishing, perfect for chilly evenings, lazy Sundays, or anytime you need a little cozy in your life.

So ladle yourself a big bowl, grab a slice of crusty bread, and enjoy a taste of Old World tradition made easy. You’ll be amazed at how much flavor comes from such humble ingredients.

🥟 More Hearty Eastern European Recipes to Try

📸 Made This Recipe?

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🍲 Nutritional Info (Per Serving – Approx. 6 servings)

Calories: ~290
Protein: 12g
Fat: 18g
Carbs: 18g
Fiber: 3g
Sodium: 890mg

Note: Nutrition will vary depending on sausage brand and sour cream usage.