Russian Sauerkraut Soup
Russian Sauerkraut Soup offers a hearty, tangy flavor with tender pork and savory broth, perfect for cold days. The combination of sauerkraut and rice creates a comforting, filling dish that pairs well with rustic bread. Suitable for those who enjoy flavorful, traditional soups with a twist.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook chopped onion and minced garlic in 2 tablespoons butter until the onion is tender.
- Add diced pork and 1 cup of broth; cook over low heat for 20 minutes.
- Add the remaining broths and drained sauerkraut; cover and simmer for 45 minutes.
- Blend flour with 2 tablespoons butter to form a paste.
- Add the flour-butter mixture to the soup and cook, stirring until thickened.
- If desired, add long grain rice before the last 20 minutes of cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier soup, consider adding diced potatoes or carrots along with the pork. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, substitute the pork with mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead. Adjust the sauerkraut based on your taste; more will yield a tangier flavor. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh dill or parsley for added flavor. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For an interesting twist, try serving it alongside Apri-Teri Chops Or Chicken for a delightful combination.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it thickens too much, add a little water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Russian Sauerkraut Soup contains roughly 663 calories, with 13g protein, 93g carbohydrates, and 26g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (31% of the Daily Value) and protein (27% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 616mg per serving (27% 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 make this soup in advance?
Yes, this soup can be made a day ahead and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Just store it in the fridge and reheat before serving.
What can I substitute for pork?
If you prefer a lighter soup or have dietary restrictions, you can use turkey or chicken instead of pork. Alternatively, for a vegetarian option, mushrooms work great as a substitute.
Is it necessary to add rice?
Adding rice is optional. It can make the soup more filling, but if you're looking to keep it lighter or gluten-free, you can omit it altogether without compromising the flavor.
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).