Hearty Cabbage and Kielbasa Soup

Ingredients

• Fresh parsley (1/4 cup, chopped)
• Salt and black pepper (to taste)
• Bay leaf (1)
• Dried thyme (1/2 teaspoon)
• Chicken broth (8 cups)
• Potatoes (3 medium, diced)
• Carrots (2 medium, sliced)
• Cabbage (1/2 head, shredded)
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced)
• Onion (1 large, chopped)
• Kielbasa sausage (1 pound, sliced)

Instructions

1. In a large pot, brown the sliced kielbasa sausage over medium heat. Once browned, remove the sausage from the pot and set aside on a plate.
2. In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
3. Next, add the shredded cabbage, sliced carrots, and diced potatoes to the pot. Stir well to combine with the onion and garlic.
4. Pour in the chicken broth. Add the dried thyme, bay leaf, and season with salt and black pepper. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
6. Return the cooked kielbasa sausage back to the pot. Let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes to warm through.
7. Before serving, remove and discard the bay leaf. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
8. Serve the soup hot, garnished with a generous sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley.