Hungarian Potato Soup with Sausage and Sour Cream (Krumplileves Kolbásszal) is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for cold days. This flavorful soup combines tender potatoes with smoked sausage, bay leaves, and a creamy finish from sour cream. The addition of sweet paprika adds a rich depth of flavor, making it a beloved classic in Hungarian cuisine. It’s easy to make in just 30 minutes and is perfect for a cozy dinner on busy weekdays.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 medium onion, finely chopped
4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
2 smoked sausages, sliced (Hungarian füstölt kolbász or chorizo)
4 cups water
2 bay leaves
1 tablespoon flour (for roux)
1 teaspoon sweet paprika powder
1 cup sour cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: Hot pepper or Erős Pista (Hungarian chili paste) for added spice

Directions

In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
Add the sliced smoked sausage to the pot and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the sausage starts to release its oils.
Stir in the diced potatoes and cook for another 2 minutes, allowing them to absorb the flavors.
Add the water and bay leaves, bringing the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
In a separate pan, prepare a roux by heating a tablespoon of oil and whisking in the flour. Stir constantly until the roux turns golden. Add the paprika powder and mix well.
Gradually add a small amount of the soup broth into the roux mixture, stirring until smooth. Pour the mixture back into the soup, stirring to thicken the broth.
Remove the pot from heat and stir in the sour cream until fully combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
For extra spice, you can mix in some hot pepper or Erős Pista.
Serve the soup hot, with a side of bread for dipping, and enjoy the smoky, creamy flavors of this traditional Hungarian dish!

Nutrients

Calories: 300 kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 25mg
Sodium: 700mg
Fiber: 3g
Sugar: 5g

The Heart of Hungarian Cuisine: Potatoes, Paprika, and Sausage

Hungarian cuisine is known for its rich, bold flavors, and Krumplileves Kolbásszal is no exception. This soup showcases some of the most iconic ingredients in Hungarian cooking, such as potatoes, smoked sausage, and paprika. The combination of these ingredients provides a hearty, flavorful dish that’s not only satisfying but also deeply comforting. Let’s dive into the key components that make this soup a beloved classic in Hungary.

The Role of Potatoes in the Soup

Potatoes are an integral part of Hungarian cuisine, often used as a staple ingredient in many dishes, including soups and stews. In this soup, potatoes play a crucial role in creating a hearty, filling base. When simmered, they release their starch into the broth, making the soup thick and comforting without needing to add heavy cream or other thickeners. The potatoes absorb the flavors of the smoked sausage and paprika, enriching the soup with a satisfying texture and a mild, earthy flavor that balances the spiciness of the paprika.

The Importance of Smoked Sausage

One of the defining elements of Krumplileves Kolbásszal is the use of smoked sausage, or kolbász. This sausage is typically made with a blend of pork, garlic, and spices, then smoked to give it a deep, savory flavor. The smokiness of the sausage infuses the soup with an irresistible richness, adding complexity and depth to the dish. You can use any type of smoked sausage, but if you want to get closer to the authentic Hungarian flavor, füstölt kolbász (Hungarian smoked sausage) is the best choice.

Sweet Paprika – A Flavorful Foundation

Paprika is the heart of many Hungarian dishes, and in this soup, sweet paprika powder adds the essential layer of flavor that defines the dish. The smoky, mildly spicy character of paprika enhances the soup’s flavor profile without overpowering it. It pairs beautifully with the sausage and potatoes, creating a balanced, rich base that is both savory and aromatic. For those who like a little heat, you can always adjust the amount of paprika to suit your taste, or even add some hot pepper or Erős Pista (Hungarian chili paste) for an extra kick.

The Rich, Creamy Finish of Sour Cream

One of the things that sets Krumplileves Kolbásszal apart from other potato soups is the addition of sour cream at the end of the cooking process. The sour cream adds a creamy, tangy element that balances the richness of the sausage and enhances the soup’s texture. It also gives the broth a velvety finish, making each spoonful indulgent and satisfying. The sour cream is what truly brings this dish together, transforming it from a simple soup to a rich, comforting meal.

A Versatile, Quick, and Easy Meal

One of the best things about this soup is how easy it is to make. With just a few basic ingredients, you can have a delicious, flavorful meal on the table in about 30 minutes. The soup can be prepared quickly on a busy weekday, making it a great option for families or individuals looking for a comforting, filling dinner without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re a beginner cook or an experienced home chef, this soup is simple enough to follow, yet delivers a flavor that feels much more complex.

The Benefits of Simplicity

In a world where complicated recipes and long ingredient lists can be intimidating, Hungarian Potato Soup with Sausage and Sour Cream stands as a testament to the power of simplicity. The beauty of this recipe lies in how the basic ingredients come together to create something truly remarkable. The humble potato, onion, and sausage form the foundation, while the paprika and sour cream elevate the flavors, making each bite a delightful blend of savory, creamy, and spicy.

Time-Saving and Freezer-Friendly

Not only is this soup quick to make, but it’s also freezer-friendly. If you have leftovers or want to make a big batch for later, this soup can be easily frozen and reheated. The flavors actually improve over time, making it the perfect option for meal prep. Just store the soup in an airtight container, and it will stay fresh for up to three months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove. You’ll have a hot, comforting meal in no time.

Serving Suggestions for the Perfect Meal

While the soup is filling on its own, it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Crusty bread is a classic accompaniment, perfect for dipping into the rich, flavorful broth. You can also serve the soup with a side of salad or pickled vegetables to add a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup. If you want to elevate the dish even further, consider adding a sprinkle of fresh parsley and thyme as garnish for a pop of color and extra flavor.

Customizing the Recipe to Your Taste

While this recipe is already delicious as-is, you can always customize it to suit your preferences. If you prefer a spicier soup, try adding more hot pepper or chili paste. If you want to make the soup even heartier, you can add more vegetables such as carrots or celery. For a more intense flavor, use a darker sausage or one with more seasoning. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices, like rosemary or bay leaves, to add complexity to the broth.

Conclusion: A Comforting Classic That Warms the Soul

Hungarian Potato Soup with Sausage and Sour Cream (Krumplileves Kolbásszal) is a soup that has stood the test of time for a reason. It’s rich, flavorful, and comforting, with a balance of earthy potatoes, smoky sausage, and creamy sour cream. The paprika adds a unique flavor that is both savory and spicy, while the sausage infuses the broth with its smoky richness. It’s the perfect dish to enjoy on a cold day, and the best part is that it’s easy to make in just 30 minutes.

Whether you’re cooking for your family, serving guests, or simply looking for a cozy meal for yourself, this soup is a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to leave everyone satisfied. It’s a true reflection of Hungarian comfort food, and its simple ingredients and bold flavors make it a dish worth making over and over again. Enjoy this hearty, delicious soup with a side of bread, and let it warm you up on even the coldest of days.

0 Shares

Hungarian Potato Soup with sausage and Sour Cream