Description
Dive into the cozy embrace of the “Kielbasa and Cheddar Potato Delight,” a hearty soup that melds the smoky flavors of kielbasa with the creamy richness of potatoes and cheddar cheese. This dish is a perfect comfort food, ideal for chilly evenings or a family dinner that everyone is sure to enjoy.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 300 g (10.5 oz) kielbasa sausage, cut into bite-size pieces
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 medium carrot, diced
- 2 celery ribs, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- ½ teaspoon red chili flakes
- 750 g (1 ½ lb) potatoes, peeled and cubed
- 1.25 liters (5 cups) chicken stock
- 300 ml (1 ¼ cups) full-fat milk
- 100 g (3.5 oz) cheddar cheese, grated
- 30 g (½ cup) fresh parsley, roughly chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-step Directions
Step 1: Browning the Kielbasa
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven. Fry the kielbasa over medium heat for 4-5 minutes until it starts to become slightly crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside.
Step 2: Sautéing Vegetables
In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables have softened.
Step 3: Adding Aromatics
Stir in the finely chopped garlic and red chili flakes. Continue to cook for another minute until the mixture becomes fragrant.
Step 4: Cooking Potatoes
Add the cubed potatoes and chicken stock to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer, covered, for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Step 5: Incorporating Milk and Kielbasa
Temper the full-fat milk by adding a ladle of the hot soup to it, mixing well, then pour the mixture back into the pot. Add the previously cooked kielbasa as well.
Step 6: Adding Cheese and Final Touches
Mix in the grated cheddar cheese, stirring until it completely melts. Let the soup simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes to thicken. Finally, stir in the chopped fresh parsley, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Servings & Preparation Time
This recipe serves 4-6 people. The total preparation time is approximately 40 minutes, with a cooking time of about 30 minutes.
Tips for Storage & Reheating
- Storage: Cool the soup completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze in suitable containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stove over medium heat until thoroughly warmed. If the soup has thickened too much, add a little water or stock to achieve desired consistency.
Conclusion
The “Kielbasa and Cheddar Potato Delight” is more than just a soup; it’s a fulfilling meal that brings comfort with every spoonful. Its rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it a favorite that appeals to both adults and children alike. Whether served as a warming dinner or a satisfying lunch, this dish promises to deliver comfort and flavor in each bite.