Czech Sauerkraut Soup with Sausage and Potatoes - polévka zelňacka

Added by kocky, February 24, 2025
soups → vegetable-soup
Czech cuisine

This traditional Czech sauerkraut soup, known as zelňačka, features a harmonious blend of tangy sauerkraut, savory sausage, and tender potatoes, creating a hearty and flavorful dish.

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Recipe:

Ingrediens

• 2 tablespoons lard or vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
• 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 pound smoked sausage (such as kielbasa), sliced
• 4 cups sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 bay leaf
• 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 cup sour cream
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• Salt to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Directions

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat lard or vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and cook until translucent, approximately 5 minutes.
2. Add Garlic and Spices: Stir in minced garlic, caraway seeds, sweet paprika, dried marjoram, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Incorporate Sausage: Add the sliced smoked sausage to the pot, stirring occasionally, and cook until lightly browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Combine Sauerkraut and Liquids: Introduce the drained and rinsed sauerkraut, chicken broth, water, and bay leaf. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
5. Add Potatoes: Bring the mixture to a boil, then add the diced potatoes. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook until the potatoes are tender, approximately 20 minutes.
6. Prepare the Cream Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together sour cream and all-purpose flour until smooth.
7. Thicken the Soup: Gradually add a ladle of hot soup into the sour cream mixture, whisking continuously to temper it. Pour this mixture back into the pot, stirring well to incorporate.
8. Simmer and Season: Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt as needed.
9. Serve: Remove the bay leaf and ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve hot.

Nutrition Facts

Tips and Tricks

1. Selecting Sauerkraut: Opt for high-quality, fermented sauerkraut without added preservatives for the best flavor. Rinsing the sauerkraut can reduce its sourness if desired.
2. Sausage Variety: Traditional Czech recipes often use smoked pork sausage, but feel free to experiment with different types like kielbasa or even a spicy sausage for an extra kick.
3. Balancing Flavors: If the soup tastes too sour, add a small amount of sugar to balance the acidity. Conversely, if it lacks tanginess, a splash of sauerkraut brine can enhance the flavor.
4. Consistency Preference: For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup before adding the sour cream mixture. Ensure you reheat the blended soup gently to prevent curdling.
5. Serving Suggestions: This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty rye bread or traditional Czech bread dumplings, making it a hearty meal.

Historical & Cultural Overview

Zelňačka, or sauerkraut soup, has deep roots in Czech culinary traditions. Historically, sauerkraut was a vital source of vitamins during the winter months, and soups like this became popular for their hearty and nourishing qualities. This dish showcases the resourcefulness of Czech cuisine, transforming simple, preserved ingredients into a flavorful and satisfying meal. It's commonly enjoyed during festive occasions and family gatherings, symbolizing warmth and togetherness.

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