Polish cuisine is rich in hearty, flavorful dishes, and one of the most comforting meals you can make is Polish sausage with sauerkraut and potatoes. This dish is a perfect blend of smoky, tangy, and savory flavors, making it a favorite for cozy dinners. The combination of kielbasa, fermented sauerkraut, and tender potatoes creates a meal that is satisfying and easy to prepare. This recipe is simple, yet it brings out the depth of flavors in each ingredient, making it a classic dish for family gatherings or weeknight meals.
Preparation Time
- Preparation Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 4-6 people
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) Polish sausage (kielbasa), sliced into rounds
- 3 medium potatoes, peeled and cut into bite-sized chunks
- 2 cups sauerkraut, drained and rinsed (optional for less tanginess)
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth (or water)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp paprika (optional for extra smokiness)
- 1/2 tsp caraway seeds (optional for authentic flavor)
- 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 bay leaf
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Preparation Steps
1. Sauté the Sausage
Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add olive oil or butter, then place the sliced Polish sausage in the pan. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it develops a golden-brown sear. Once browned, remove the sausage from the pan and set it aside.
2. Cook the Onions and Garlic
In the same pan, add the sliced onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, releasing its fragrant aroma.
3. Add the Potatoes
Add the chopped potatoes to the pan and season with black pepper, paprika, and caraway seeds. Stir well to coat the potatoes in the seasonings and allow them to cook for about 3-5 minutes.
4. Combine with Sauerkraut
Mix in the drained sauerkraut and stir everything together. If you prefer a milder flavor, rinse the sauerkraut before adding it. Add the bay leaf for additional aroma.
5. Simmer with Broth
Pour in the chicken broth (or water), which will help soften the potatoes and allow all the flavors to blend together. Cover the pan and let it simmer over medium-low heat for about 25-30 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
6. Reintroduce the Sausage
Return the browned Polish sausage to the pan and mix it with the other ingredients. Let everything cook together for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to fully meld. Adjust seasoning with salt if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs well with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad. For an extra Polish touch, serve it with a dollop of sour cream on the side.
This Polish sausage, sauerkraut, and potatoes dish is a perfect blend of comfort and tradition. Its combination of smoky sausage, tangy sauerkraut, and hearty potatoes makes it a family favorite that’s easy to prepare. Whether served on a chilly evening or at a casual gathering, this meal is sure to bring warmth and satisfaction to the table. Try it today and enjoy a taste of Poland right in your kitchen!