Sauerkraut Soup

This recipe for sauerkraut soup with meat and potato balls brings true winter comfort to your plate. The rich, warm soup made from sauerkraut and juicy chunks of meat, seasoned with aromatic spices and tomato puree, pairs perfectly with crispy, golden-brown potato balls. The tanginess of the sauerkraut and the juiciness of the meat create an exceptionally balanced and full flavor, while the crispy garlic-flavored potato balls add an ideal contrast and an extra layer of texture.

This dish is perfect for cold days when you crave something warm and hearty. The preparation is not complicated, but it does require a bit of patience, which is well worth it once you take that first bite of this homemade, rustic, and rich soup.

Recipe: Sauerkraut Soup with Meat and Potato Balls

Ingredients (for 4-6 people):

For the sauerkraut soup:

• 800 g sauerkraut, finely chopped
• 500 g pork or beef, diced
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced into rounds
• 2-3 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tablespoon ground paprika
• 2 tablespoons tomato puree (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2-3 tablespoons oil
• 1.5 liters of water or meat broth

For the potato balls:

• 1 kg potatoes
• 2-3 tablespoons butter or oil
• 2-3 cloves of garlic, finely chopped
• Bread crumbs (for coating)
• Salt to taste

Preparation:

For the sauerkraut soup:

1. Heat the oil in a large pot and sauté the chopped onion until translucent.
2. Add the diced meat and cook until it turns golden brown on all sides.
3. Add the chopped garlic, carrots, bay leaves, and ground paprika. Stir well.
4. Add the chopped sauerkraut and continue to sauté for a few more minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Add the tomato puree (if using), then pour in the water or meat broth to cover everything. Simmer over medium heat for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the meat and sauerkraut are tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

For the potato balls:

1. Peel the potatoes and boil them in salted water until soft. Drain and mash until smooth.
2. Add butter and salt to the mashed potatoes as needed. Shape the mixture into small balls.
3. Roll each ball in bread crumbs.
4. Heat oil or butter in a pan and fry the balls until golden brown.
5. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté it with the balls at the end to release the aroma.

Nutritional Value (per serving, approximately):

• Calories: 450-500 kcal
• Protein: 25-30 g
• Carbohydrates: 40-45 g
• Fat: 20-25 g

Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 2 hours
• Total: 2 hours and 30 minutes

This dish is perfect for cold winter days, as it is hearty, filling, and incredibly flavorful. Enjoy!