Ingredients:
1 lb kielbasa sausage, sliced into rounds
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups green cabbage, chopped
3 large carrots, sliced
3 medium potatoes, diced
6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
1 bay leaf
1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for added smoky flavor)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Cook the Kielbasa:
Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until browned. Remove the kielbasa and set aside.
Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
Add Vegetables and Tomatoes:
Add the chopped cabbage, carrots, potatoes, diced tomatoes (with their juice), bay leaf, and smoked paprika (if desired).
Pour in the Broth:
Add the chicken or vegetable broth to the pot and stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let the soup simmer gently for 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender.
Return the Kielbasa and Season:
Add the cooked kielbasa back to the pot. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 5 minutes, ensuring the kielbasa is heated through.
Finish and Serve:
Remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish each bowl with fresh chopped parsley and enjoy your hearty kielbasa and cabbage soup!