Description
A comforting and flavorful Czech soup perfect for cold days, packed with sauerkraut, potatoes, and smoked sausage.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon lard or sunflower/vegetable oil
 - 1 medium onion, finely chopped
 - 1 clove garlic, minced
 - 1½ teaspoons sweet paprika
 - 3 cups sauerkraut, drained
 - 5 cups water or low-sodium broth
 - 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
 - 7 oz (200g) smoked sausage, sliced
 - 1 bay leaf
 - Salt and black pepper, to taste
 - Optional: 1 tablespoon flour (for thicker soup)
 - Optional: pinch of caraway seeds or marjoram
 
Instructions
- Heat the oil in a soup pot over medium heat.
 - Add the onion and cook until golden.
 - Stir in the garlic and paprika; cook for another 30 seconds.
 - Add the drained sauerkraut, water/broth, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.
 - Once boiling, add the diced potatoes and sausage. Lower the heat and simmer for 25–30 minutes until potatoes are tender.
 - Season with salt and pepper. For a thicker soup, stir in a flour slurry and cook for a few more minutes.
 - Remove the bay leaf and serve hot with rye bread or crusty rolls.
 
Notes
Great with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or a pinch of caraway seeds before serving. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
 - Cook Time: 30 minutes
 - Category: Soup
 - Method: Simmering
 - Cuisine: Czech