Sausage Soup
Sausage soup is a delightful dish that warms the soul and tantalizes the taste buds. This hearty soup combines savory sausages with fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, creating a comforting meal perfect for chilly evenings. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet night in or hosting friends, sausage soup is sure to impress. Let’s dive into this easy recipe that promises to bring joy to your table.
Ingredients
– 1 lb sausage (Italian or smoked)
– 1 cup carrots, diced
– 1 cup celery, diced
– 1 cup potatoes, cubed
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe makes 4 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, with a cooking time of 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) of sausage soup contains approximately 300 calories, 15g protein, 20g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. This is for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
3. Slice the sausage and add it to the pot, browning it on all sides.
4. Stir in the carrots and celery, cooking for about 5 minutes.
5. Add the diced potatoes and mix well.
6. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and the broth.
7. Season with oregano, salt, and pepper.
8. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
9. Cover and let cook for 25 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
10. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving hot.
Alternative Ingredients
You can easily substitute the sausage with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Additionally, feel free to use frozen vegetables if you’re short on time, or swap out the broth for a vegetable base for a vegetarian version.
Serving and Pairings
Sausage soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad. You can also serve it with grated cheese on top for added richness.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover sausage soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using too much salt; start with a little and adjust after cooking.
- Not browning the sausage, which adds depth of flavor.
- Overcooking vegetables; they should be tender but not mushy.
- Skipping aromatics like garlic and onion; they enhance the soup’s flavor.
- Not tasting as you go; seasoning adjustments are crucial.
Helpful Tips
- For a spicier soup, add red pepper flakes.
- Use fresh herbs for a brighter flavor.
- Let the soup sit for a few hours for the flavors to meld.
- Experiment with different types of sausage for varied flavors.
FAQs
Can I use any type of sausage?
Yes, you can use any type of sausage you prefer, such as Italian, chorizo, or even vegetarian options.
How do I make it spicier?
You can add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to increase the heat level.
Can I make sausage soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! It can be made a day in advance and tastes even better after the flavors meld.
How do I thicken the soup?
To thicken the soup, you can add a cornstarch slurry or reduce the liquid by simmering it longer.
Is sausage soup healthy?
While it can be hearty, you can make it healthier by using lean sausage and plenty of vegetables.
Conclusion
Sausage soup is not just a meal; it’s a comforting embrace in a bowl. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s a dish that brings people together. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the warmth and satisfaction it brings!
Sausage Soup
Ingredients
- 1 lb sausage Italian or smoked
- 1 cup carrots diced
- 1 cup celery diced
- 1 cup potatoes cubed
- 1 can diced tomatoes 14 oz
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until fragrant.
- Slice the sausage and add it to the pot, browning it on all sides.
- Stir in the carrots and celery, cooking for about 5 minutes.
- Add the diced potatoes and mix well.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and the broth.
- Season with oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
- Cover and let cook for 25 minutes, or until vegetables are tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving hot.
