Imagine a steaming bowl of soup that instantly transports you to the cozy kitchens of Poland, where comfort and flavor dance together in perfect harmony. This Kielbasa and White Bean Soup is not just a meal; it's a warm embrace on a chilly day, packed with robust flavors and soul-satisfying ingredients that will make your taste buds sing with joy. Get ready to transform your ordinary dinner into an extraordinary culinary experience that combines the smoky richness of kielbasa with the creamy texture of white beans in a broth that tells a delicious story.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 1 hrs
Cuisine: Polish
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound kielbasa, sliced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cans white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and soft, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, stirring constantly to prevent burning and release the garlic's aromatic flavors.
- Slice the kielbasa into half-moon or diagonal cuts, approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch thick. Add the sliced kielbasa to the pot and cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the sausage to lightly brown and release its rich, smoky oils.
- Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring you scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot to incorporate those flavorful fond remnants.
- Drain and rinse the white beans thoroughly under cold water. Add the beans to the pot along with the dried thyme and bay leaf.
- Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 35-40 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the broth to slightly reduce.
- Remove the bay leaf. Taste the soup and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference.
- Serve hot, optionally garnishing with fresh chopped parsley or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. Pair with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Tips
- Choose Quality Kielbasa: Select a high-quality Polish kielbasa for the most authentic and rich flavor. Smoked varieties work best for this recipe.
- Bean Preparation: Always drain and rinse canned beans thoroughly to remove excess sodium and improve texture.
- Flavor Layering: Take time to properly sauté onions and garlic to build a deep flavor foundation for your soup.
- Simmer Slowly: Allow the soup to simmer gently, which helps the flavors meld and develop a more complex taste profile.
- Optional Enhancements: Consider adding a splash of white wine while sautéing vegetables for an extra depth of flavor.
- Storage Tip: This soup tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance. The flavors will continue to develop overnight.
- Garnish Wisely: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of good quality olive oil can elevate the final presentation and taste.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 6g
Cholesterol: 60mg
