Soups

Polish Potato Soup (Zupa Ziemniaczana)

Name: Polish Potato Soup (Zupa Ziemniaczana)
Prep time: 25 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 4 ounces Polish kielbasa sausage, quartered and sliced 1/4-inch thick; 1 yellow onion, chopped; 2 ribs celery, cut into 1/2-inch pieces; 2 carrots, cut into 1/2-inch pieces; 2 1/2 pounds Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and diced into 1-inch pieces; 4 cups chicken broth; 1 1/2 cups water, or as needed; 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste; 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper, or to taste; 1 pinch cayenne pepper, or to taste; 3/4 cup diced dill pickle; 1/4 cup pickle juice; 1/2 cup chopped fresh dill

A hearty and flavorful Polish potato soup, featuring tender potatoes, savory kielbasa, and a bright finish of dill pickle and juice. This comforting soup is perfect for a chilly day.

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until browned and slightly crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the kielbasa with a slotted spoon and set aside.
Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrots to the pot with the remaining oil. Sauté until the vegetables begin to soften, about 5-7 minutes.
Stir in the diced potatoes, chicken broth, water, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Return the cooked kielbasa to the pot. Stir in the diced dill pickle and pickle juice. Continue to simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Remove the soup from the heat and stir in the fresh chopped dill. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.
Ladle hot soup into bowls and serve immediately. Enjoy your comforting Polish Potato Soup!

This Polish Potato Soup, known as Zupa Ziemniaczana, is a beloved staple in Polish home cooking. It’s a simple yet incredibly satisfying dish, rich with the flavors of smoked kielbasa, root vegetables, and a unique tang from dill pickles and their brine. This recipe brings warmth and a taste of tradition to your table, perfect for a cozy family meal.