Slovenian Sauerkraut Soup

Ingredients

• 2 cups (470ml) sauerkraut, drained and rinsed 2 cups (470ml) sauerkraut, drained and rinsed
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
• 1 bay leaf 1 bay leaf
• 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth 4 cups (950ml) vegetable broth
• 1 cup (240ml) water 1 cup (240ml) water
• Salt and pepper to taste Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 180 kcal / 753 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 4g, 0.5g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 32g, 6g
• Protein: 5g
• Fiber: 6g
• Salt: 1.5g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until they become translucent.
2. 2.
   Add the caraway seeds and bay leaf to the pot, and cook for another minute to release their flavors.
3. 3.
   Add the sauerkraut and diced potatoes to the pot, and stir well to combine with the onion and garlic mixture.
4. 4.
   Pour in the vegetable broth and water, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
5. 5.
   Remove the bay leaf from the soup. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
6. 6.
   Serve the Štajerska kisla juha hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Sauerkraut — Make sure to drain and rinse the sauerkraut before using it in the soup to remove excess brine and adjust the level of sourness according to your preference.

Tips & Tricks

• For a heartier version, you can add some cooked smoked sausage or bacon to the soup.
• If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender before serving.
• Serve the soup with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt for added creaminess.
• This soup tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop. Consider making a larger batch for leftovers.
• Pair the Štajerska kisla juha with some crusty bread to complete the meal.

Serving advice

Serve the Štajerska kisla juha as a comforting main course, accompanied by a slice of crusty bread. Garnish each bowl with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

Presentation advice

Present the Štajerska kisla juha in deep bowls, allowing the vibrant colors of the sauerkraut and potatoes to shine through. Serve it piping hot to fully enjoy the flavors and aromas.