German Sauerkraut Soup Recipe

This hearty German sauerkraut soup is packed with robust flavors, featuring tender potatoes, smoky sausage, and tangy sauerkraut in a comforting broth. Perfect for chilly days!

Did You Know? German sauerkraut soup is a traditional comfort dish that celebrates the bold flavors of Eastern European cuisine. The addition of paprika enhances its smoky richness, making it a favorite in colder months.

Yield

6 servings

Ingredients

1 tablespoon butter or oil
1 medium onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 medium carrots, diced
3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
2 cups sauerkraut, drained
1/2 pound smoked sausage, sliced (kielbasa or bratwurst work well)
1 teaspoon paprika
1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables
   Heat butter or oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the carrots and potatoes, cooking for another 5 minutes.

2. Add the Broth and Sauerkraut
   Pour in the broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the drained sauerkraut and stir to combine. Let it cook for 10 minutes.

3. Cook the Sausage
   Add the sliced smoked sausage to the soup, along with the paprika and caraway seeds (if using). Continue to simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

4. Season to Taste
   Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

5. Garnish and Serve
   Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with crusty bread for dipping.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Calories: 250, Protein: 12g, Carbohydrates: 20g, Fiber: 3g, Net Carbohydrates: 17g, Fat: 13g, Saturated Fat: 4g, Cholesterol: 30mg, Sodium: 950mg, Sugars: 3g, Glycemic Index: Low

Kitchen Tips, Great Ideas, How to Save Money

1. Use Leftover Sausage
   This soup is a great way to use up leftover smoked sausage or ham.

2. Add Cabbage
   For extra heartiness, toss in some shredded cabbage along with the sauerkraut.

3. Swap the Potatoes
   Substitute sweet potatoes or parsnips for a sweeter twist on this classic.

4. Spice It Up
   Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne for a spicy kick.

5. Make it Creamy
   Stir in a splash of heavy cream or sour cream at the end for a rich finish.

6. Freeze for Later
   This soup freezes well! Store leftovers in airtight containers for a quick meal.

7. Vegetarian Option
   Skip the sausage and use smoked paprika for that same smoky flavor.

8. Pair with Bread
   Serve with rye bread or pretzels for an authentic German touch.

9. Add a Beer Base
   Replace 1 cup of broth with a good-quality lager for a deeper flavor.

10. Make It a Meal
    Serve with a fresh green salad to balance the rich flavors of the soup.

What This Soup Will Look Like

This hearty sauerkraut soup has a golden, slightly smoky broth filled with tender potatoes, bright orange carrots, and slices of juicy smoked sausage. The tangy sauerkraut adds a burst of flavor to every bite, and the fresh parsley on top provides a vibrant finishing touch. It’s rustic, comforting, and full of German-inspired goodness!