If you’ve ever experienced the heartwarming aroma of a simmering pot of cabbage soup, you know that few dishes evoke the same sense of nostalgia and comfort. One such dish is Kapusta, a traditional Polish cabbage soup made with a flavorful broth, pork, sauerkraut, and tender potatoes. This Polish comfort food is beloved in many Polish-American homes and continues to be a staple at family dinners.
In this article, we’ll take you step-by-step through a Polish cabbage soup recipe that captures the essence of the dish and introduces you to a meal that’s both easy to make and packed with rich, hearty flavors. Whether you’re looking for a traditional Kapusta recipe, or a new way to incorporate pork into your cabbage soup, this guide has you covered.
What Is Polish Cabbage Soup (Kapusta)?
Kapusta, also known as Kapusniak or Kapusta kiszona duszona, is a beloved Polish soup that combines a medley of ingredients into a satisfying and comforting dish. It’s often made with pork ribs, sauerkraut, and fresh cabbage, simmered together into a hearty soup. Many families, like the one in this recipe, add a unique twist by including stewed tomatoes to deepen the flavor profile.
The dish is often associated with warm family gatherings and represents the comfort and care of Polish home cooking. The traditional Polish soup has a rustic, tangy flavor that comes from the sauerkraut, balanced with the richness of the pork and the sweetness of the cabbage.
Ingredients for a Traditional Polish Cabbage Soup Recipe
To make this delicious Polish cabbage soup at home, you’ll need the following ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
- Pork Ribs: 3–4 pounds of meaty pork ribs (such as country-style ribs)
- Salt Pork: 6 ounces diced salt pork (for added richness)
- Onion: 1 1/2 cups (about one large onion)
- Flour: 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- Sauerkraut: 1 pound of fresh sauerkraut with juice (found in the refrigerated section)
- Cabbage: 1 medium head, shredded (about 1 1/2 – 2 pounds)
- Stewed Tomatoes: 2 cans (14 1/2 ounces each)
- Caraway Seeds: 1 tablespoon
- Salt: 1 teaspoon
- Potatoes: 4 pounds of all-purpose potatoes
- Rye Bread and Butter: For serving
How to Make Polish Cabbage Soup (Kapusta)
This easy Kapusta cabbage soup recipe is a simple, yet deeply flavorful dish. Follow these easy steps to recreate this Polish cabbage soup with pork at home.
Step 1: Prepare the Pork Ribs
- Place the pork ribs in a large, 8-quart heavy pot and cover with water, almost to the top.
- Bring to a boil uncovered, then reduce to a fast simmer (low boil) and cook for about 45 minutes. Skim off the foam as it starts to boil.
- After the simmering time, turn off the heat and let the ribs sit in the water for another 15 minutes.
Step 2: Sauté the Salt Pork and Onion
- In a medium frying pan, cook diced salt pork over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes until it starts to brown.
- Add the onion and sauté for 2-3 more minutes until tender.
- Stir in flour and sauté for another 3 minutes. Turn off the heat and set aside.
Step 3: Add Vegetables to the Broth
- Remove the pork ribs from the pot and set them aside to cool. Keep the liquid in the pot.
- To the pot, add sauerkraut with juice, shredded cabbage, stewed tomatoes, caraway seeds, and salt.
- Stir in the sautéed salt pork and onion mixture and bring to a simmer over medium-high heat.
- Cook for 30-35 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
Step 4: Prepare the Potatoes
- While the soup is cooking, peel and quarter the potatoes. Place them in cold salted water.
- Bring to a boil and cook for 5-10 minutes or until tender. Drain and allow them to cool to room temperature.
- Once the soup is done, cut the potatoes into bite-sized pieces and add them to the soup, or serve them on the side. (This method prevents them from becoming too mushy.)
Step 5: Assemble and Serve
- Shred the meat from the cooled pork ribs and return it to the pot.
- Let everything heat through before serving.
- Serve with rye bread and butter for an authentic Polish experience.
Tips for Making the Best Polish Cabbage Soup (Kapusta)
- Use high-quality pork: The pork ribs and salt pork give the soup its depth of flavor, so choose meaty ribs and fatty salt pork for the best results.
- Let it simmer: The key to a flavorful soup is the long simmering process. Don’t rush it! Allow the flavors to meld together and develop a rich, hearty taste.
- Try adding a bit of vinegar: Some variations of Kapusta call for a splash of vinegar to enhance the tanginess of the sauerkraut. Experiment with this to suit your taste.
- Add potatoes for texture: The cabbage soup with potatoes gives the soup extra heartiness, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.
Nutritional Benefits of Polish Cabbage Soup
Not only is Kapusta delicious, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Cabbage and sauerkraut are excellent sources of fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants. Pork provides a good dose of protein, while potatoes add energy-sustaining carbohydrates. Together, these ingredients make for a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
Variations of Kapusta: Explore Other Delicious Versions
While the Kapusta recipe provided here is a classic, you can easily adjust the ingredients and methods to suit your tastes:
- Kapusniak with Bacon: Substitute bacon for salt pork for a smoky twist.
- Vegan Kapusta: For a vegetarian version, replace the pork with beans or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of meat-based stock.
- Spicy Polish Cabbage Soup: Add a bit of chili flakes or paprika to bring some heat to the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions About Polish Cabbage Soup
1. How long does Polish cabbage soup last?
Kapusta can last in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and also freezes well for up to 3 months. Just be sure to store it in an airtight container.
2. Can I make Polish cabbage soup ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, Kapusta often tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. It’s a great dish to prepare in advance for meal planning.
3. What bread goes best with Polish cabbage soup?
Traditional rye bread is a must when serving Kapusta, as it complements the soup’s tangy and hearty flavors perfectly.
Enjoy Your Traditional Polish Cabbage Soup (Kapusta)
Whether you’re recreating a beloved family recipe or trying it for the first time, Polish cabbage soup (Kapusta) offers a delicious and nostalgic experience. Packed with tender pork, hearty cabbage, and the tanginess of sauerkraut, this comforting Polish soup is perfect for a cozy family meal. Serve it with rye bread and butter for a truly authentic experience, and enjoy the warmth and love that comes with every spoonful.
Bonus Tip: If you’re ever unsure of how to make Polish cabbage soup, just remember that Kapusta is all about love and patience in the kitchen!
Have you made this traditional Polish cabbage soup recipe? Share your experience in the comments below! We’d love to hear how you made it your own or if you added any personal twists to the recipe. And don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family who might be looking for Polish dinner ideas!
