Feeling chilly? This sausage kale soup is your ticket to warmth and comfort. Packed with hearty ingredients and bold flavors, it’s a one-pot wonder that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
Why This Recipe Works
- The combination of spicy sausage and earthy kale creates a perfect balance of flavors.
- It’s a one-pot meal, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your soup.
- This soup is packed with nutrients, making it a healthy option for any meal.
- It’s incredibly versatile, allowing for numerous variations to suit any taste.
- The recipe is straightforward, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
Ingredients
- 1 lb spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 bunch kale, stems removed and leaves chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Equipment Needed
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Brown the Sausage
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Tip: Don’t rush this step; browning the sausage well adds depth to the soup’s flavor.
Sauté the Aromatics
Add the diced onion to the pot with the sausage. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This builds the flavor base of your soup.
Add Liquids and Simmer
Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes with their juices. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 15 minutes to meld the flavors together. Tip: A gentle simmer is key; boiling too hard can make the broth cloudy.
Incorporate the Kale
Add the chopped kale to the pot, stirring until it wilts into the soup. Continue to simmer for another 10 minutes. The kale should be tender but still vibrant green. Tip: Massaging the kale before adding it can help soften it and reduce bitterness.
Season and Serve
Stir in the dried oregano, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup sit for 5 minutes off the heat before serving to allow the flavors to come together even more.
Tips and Tricks
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a Parmesan rind to the soup as it simmers. It will melt into the broth, adding a rich, umami depth. If you’re not a fan of spicy food, sweet Italian sausage can be used in place of the spicy variety. To make this soup even heartier, add a can of drained and rinsed white beans with the kale. For a creamier texture, blend half of the soup before adding the kale, then stir in the remaining whole ingredients.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Swap the sausage for mushrooms and use vegetable broth.
- Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes with the garlic for extra heat.
- Creamy Twist: Stir in a cup of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end.
- Protein Boost: Add shredded chicken or turkey for additional protein.
- Grain Addition: Throw in a cup of cooked quinoa or rice to make it more filling.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! This soup freezes beautifully. Just cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.
What can I use instead of kale?
If kale isn’t your thing, spinach or Swiss chard are great substitutes. Just add them towards the end of cooking since they wilt much faster than kale.
How can I make this soup less spicy?
Opt for sweet Italian sausage instead of spicy, and skip any additional heat like red pepper flakes. You can also balance the spice with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt when serving.
Summary
This sausage kale soup is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any day. Easy to make and customizable, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection.