Introduction
Instant Pot Kielbasa, Cabbage, and Potato Soup is a hearty, flavorful, and comforting dish that comes together in a fraction of the time thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot.
The combination of savory kielbasa sausage, tender cabbage, and creamy potatoes creates a well-balanced and satisfying meal perfect for chilly nights.
The soup is both filling and rich, yet simple enough for a weeknight dinner, making it a crowd-pleasing favorite that can be enjoyed by all ages.
Origin and Cultural Significance
Kielbasa, a type of Polish sausage, is a staple in Eastern European cuisine, with Poland being its country of origin. It’s often used in soups, stews, and casseroles.
Cabbage, another key ingredient in this soup, has deep roots in European cooking and is commonly found in dishes from Germany, Ireland, and Poland, among others.
In particular, cabbage is often paired with pork, sausage, and potatoes, creating dishes that are simple yet flavorful.
This soup, although not a traditional recipe per se, takes inspiration from Eastern European comfort food and brings it into modern kitchens through the convenience of the Instant Pot.
The combination of kielbasa, cabbage, and potatoes in a soup is a hearty, nourishing meal that reflects the resourcefulness and practicality of Eastern European cooking, where these ingredients were commonly used to create filling and economical meals.
Ingredients Quantity
To make this comforting Instant Pot soup, you will need the following ingredients:
- Kielbasa sausage – 14-16 ounces, sliced into rounds
- Potatoes – 3 medium, peeled and cubed (Yukon gold or Russet work well)
- Cabbage – 4 cups, chopped (about half a medium cabbage)
- Onion – 1 medium, chopped
- Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
- Carrots – 2 medium, sliced
- Chicken broth – 4 cups (or vegetable broth for a lighter version)
- Olive oil – 1 tablespoon (for sautéing)
- Bay leaf – 1
- Thyme – 1 teaspoon, dried (or 1 tablespoon fresh)
- Salt and pepper – to taste
- Heavy cream or milk – ½ cup (optional, for added creaminess)
- Fresh parsley – chopped, for garnish
Optional Additions
- Celery – 2 stalks, chopped, for added flavor
- Parsnips – 1-2, peeled and sliced, for extra sweetness
- Smoked paprika – ½ teaspoon, for a smoky depth of flavor
- Red pepper flakes – a pinch, for some heat
- Sour cream – a dollop on top when serving, for creaminess and tang
- Cheese – shredded cheddar or Parmesan, for extra richness
Tips for Success
- Don’t Overcook the Potatoes: Be mindful of the cooking time for potatoes, as they can break down if cooked too long. If you prefer firmer potatoes, you can use the “manual” function for less time.
- Sautéing the Kielbasa: Browning the kielbasa slightly in the Instant Pot before adding the other ingredients enhances its flavor and gives the soup a richer, more robust taste.
- Adjust Seasoning: After cooking, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
- Use Broth for Flavor: Chicken or vegetable broth adds more depth of flavor to the soup than water. Consider using low-sodium broth to control the salt level.
- Allow Time for Resting: Let the soup sit for a few minutes after it’s done cooking to allow the flavors to meld together. It’s often even better the next day!
- Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian take, replace the kielbasa with smoked tempeh or a plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth.
Instructions
- Sauté the Kielbasa: Set the Instant Pot to “Sauté” mode. Once hot, add olive oil and the kielbasa slices. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is lightly browned.
- Add the Vegetables: To the pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery (if using). Sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Add the Broth and Seasonings: Add the chopped potatoes, cabbage, chicken broth, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Pressure Cook: Close the Instant Pot lid, set the valve to “sealing,” and cook on high pressure for 10 minutes. After the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to naturally release for 10 minutes, then carefully switch the valve to “venting” to release any remaining pressure.
- Finishing Touches: Open the Instant Pot lid. Stir the soup and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed. If desired, stir in heavy cream or milk for extra creaminess.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with chopped fresh parsley, and serve hot. Optionally, top with a dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese.
Description
Instant Pot Kielbasa, Cabbage, and Potato Soup is a deliciously hearty and flavorful dish.
The kielbasa sausage provides a savory, smoky flavor that complements the mild sweetness of the cabbage and the comforting texture of the potatoes.
The Instant Pot cuts down on cooking time, making it easy to prepare a rich, satisfying soup that feels like a long-simmered dish.
The result is a creamy, savory soup with tender sausage, vegetables, and potatoes in a flavorful broth that can easily become a family favorite.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approx.)
- Calories: 350-400
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 700mg (depending on the broth used)
- Calcium: 6% of daily value
Note: Nutritional values will vary depending on ingredients used, such as the choice of cream or milk.
Conclusion
Instant Pot Kielbasa, Cabbage, and Potato Soup is a perfect balance of savory, hearty, and comforting elements, all cooked in a fraction of the time thanks to the Instant Pot.
This dish is quick, filling, and flavorful—ideal for busy weeknights or cold winter days when you crave something hearty but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
Whether served with a side of crusty bread or on its own, it’s a soup that will leave everyone satisfied and warmed from the inside out.
Recommendation
For a complete meal, serve this soup with a side of crusty bread or a light salad.
you’re looking for a little extra richness, a sprinkle of grated cheese or a dollop of sour cream on top can make the soup feel even more indulgent.
Embracing Healthful Indulgence
While this soup is already fairly nutritious, there are a few ways to make it even healthier without compromising flavor.
Consider using turkey kielbasa or chicken sausage for a leaner option.
If you’d like to reduce the calories, use light cream or skip the cream altogether and instead add a little extra broth for a lighter soup.
You can also increase the vegetable content by adding more cabbage, carrots, or even some spinach for added nutrients and fiber.
This soup is versatile enough to allow for a variety of healthy adjustments while maintaining its comforting appeal!