Zelňačka - Creamy Sauerkraut Soup

Ingredients

• 2 cups (470ml) sauerkraut, drained 2 cups (470ml) sauerkraut, drained
• 1 onion, finely chopped 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 potatoes, peeled and diced 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 cups (940ml) vegetable broth 4 cups (940ml) vegetable broth
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled 4 slices of bacon, cooked and crumbled
• Fresh dill, for garnish Fresh dill, for garnish
• Salt and pepper, to taste Salt and pepper, to taste

Nutrition

• Calories (kcal / KJ): 320 kcal / 1340 KJ
• Fat (total, saturated): 24g, 12g
• Carbohydrates (total, sugars): 20g, 5g
• Protein: 8g
• Fiber: 5g
• Salt: 2g

Preparation

1. 1.
   In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion until translucent.
2. 2.
   Add the sauerkraut and diced potatoes to the pot and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. 3.
   Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
4. 4.
   Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, puree the soup until smooth.
5. 5.
   Return the soup to the pot and stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. 6.
   Simmer the soup for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
7. 7.
   Serve the Zelňačka hot, garnished with crumbled bacon and fresh dill.

Treat your ingredients with care...

• Sauerkraut — Rinse the sauerkraut under cold water before using to reduce its tanginess if desired.
• Heavy cream — Use full-fat heavy cream for the best creamy texture.
• Bacon — For a healthier alternative, you can use turkey bacon or omit it altogether for a vegetarian version.

Tips & Tricks

• For a tangier flavor, add a splash of white vinegar to the soup before serving.
• If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can mash the potatoes instead of pureeing them.
• Serve the Zelňačka with a dollop of sour cream for an extra creamy touch.
• Customize the soup by adding cooked sausage or smoked ham for a meatier version.
• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if needed.

Serving advice

Serve the Zelňačka as a comforting starter or a light main course. Accompany it with crusty bread or Slovak dumplings for a more substantial meal.

Presentation advice

Garnish the Zelňačka with a sprinkle of fresh dill and a generous amount of crumbled bacon on top. Serve it in a rustic bowl to showcase its homemade charm.