Amish Sauerkraut Soup
A hearty Amish sauerkraut soup combining savory sausage, tender potatoes, and tangy sauerkraut in a comforting, flavorful broth perfect for chilly days and family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry the pork sausage in a large pot and drain excess fat.
- If using plain sausage, you can add herbs such as sage, fennel, thyme, or dill for extra flavor.
- Return the sausage to the pot and add chopped onion, cubed potatoes, and minced garlic.
- Cook on medium heat until the onion is limp and beginning to brown.
- Stir in the flour and cook for another minute to remove raw flour taste.
- Gradually add chicken broth while stirring to prevent lumps.
- Add the sauerkraut with its juice and stir well.
- Pour in the milk, bring to a simmer, and cook until potatoes are tender and flavors meld, about 15-20 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using spicy pork sausage or adding herbs like thyme or dill. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or mushrooms. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version. Adjust the amount of sauerkraut based on your taste preference; more will intensify the tangy flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Eighteen-Eighty-Six Cheese Soup for a comforting lunch or dinner. Garnish with fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream for added richness. This dish also makes for a great potluck item.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for a quick meal, adding a splash of milk to restore creaminess if needed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Amish Sauerkraut Soup contains roughly 2139 calories, with 45g protein, 312g carbohydrates, and 78g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (104% of the Daily Value), protein (91% of the Daily Value), and potassium (57% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin D. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze Amish Sauerkraut Soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then warm on the stove, adding a bit of milk if the soup is too thick.
What can I use instead of sauerkraut?
If you're not a fan of sauerkraut, you can substitute it with pickled cabbage or even coleslaw mix for a similar tangy flavor. Keep in mind that the texture and taste will differ slightly, but it will still provide a delicious base for the soup.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat, consider using spicy sausage or incorporating red pepper flakes while cooking. You can also serve the soup with hot sauce on the side, allowing each person to adjust the spice level to their preference.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).