Discover how to make Kapustnica, a beloved Slovak sauerkraut soup traditionally enjoyed during Christmas. This hearty and flavorful soup features tangy sauerkraut, tender pork, and aromatic spices, making it a perfect addition to your holiday feast. Follow our step-by-step recipe to create this comforting dish that brings warmth and tradition to your Christmas celebrations.

Ingredients:

- 500g sauerkraut, drained and rinsed

- 300g pork ribs or shoulder, cut into chunks

- 1 large onion, finely chopped

- 3 cloves garlic, minced

- 2 carrots, sliced

- 1 potato, peeled and cubed

- 1 tablespoon paprika

- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds

- 1 bay leaf

- 1 liter beef or vegetable broth

- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 100g smoked sausage, sliced (optional)

- 2 tablespoons dried mushrooms (optional)

- Fresh dill or parsley for garnish

Instructions:

Prepare the Ingredients:

  - If using dried mushrooms, soak them in warm water for about 30 minutes, then chop them finely. 

Cook the Pork:

  - Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the pork chunks and brown on all sides. Remove the pork and set aside.

Sauté Vegetables:

  - In the same pot, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Combine Ingredients:

  - Return the pork to the pot. Stir in the paprika, caraway seeds, and bay leaf. Add the drained sauerkraut, sliced carrots, and cubed potato. Mix well.

Add Broth:

  - Pour in the beef or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the pork is tender and the flavors are well combined.

Add Optional Ingredients:

  - If using, add the smoked sausage and dried mushrooms during the last 15 minutes of cooking.

Season and Serve:

  - Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish with fresh dill or parsley if desired.

Enjoy:

  - Serve hot and enjoy this traditional Slovak Kapustnica soup with crusty bread or as part of a festive meal.

This Kapustnica recipe captures the essence of Slovak Christmas traditions and is sure to be a hit at your holiday gatherings!

Nutritional values

Sauerkraut (500g, drained and rinsed):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100g):

   - Calories: 19

   - Protein: 1g

   - Carbohydrates: 4g

   - Fat: 0g

Benefits: High in probiotics that support gut health and digestion. Low in calories and a good source of vitamins C and K.

For the Pork Ribs or Shoulder:

Pork Ribs or Shoulder (300g, cut into chunks):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100g, for pork shoulder):

   - Calories: 242

   - Protein: 27g

   - Carbohydrates: 0g

   - Fat: 15g

Benefits: High in protein and essential vitamins (B12) and minerals (iron and zinc) for muscle growth and overall health.

Large Onion (1, finely chopped, approximately 150g):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100g):

   - Calories: 40

   - Protein: 1g

   - Carbohydrates: 9g

   - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Contains antioxidants and sulfur compounds that support heart health and reduce inflammation. Adds flavor and depth to the dish.

Garlic Cloves (3 cloves, minced, approximately 9g):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100g):

   - Calories: 149

   - Protein: 6g

   - Carbohydrates: 33g

   - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Known for its antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. Can support immune function and cardiovascular health.

Carrots (2, sliced, approximately 130g):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100g):

   - Calories: 41

   - Protein: 1g

   - Carbohydrates: 10g

   - Fat: 0g

Benefits: High in vitamin A, which supports vision and immune function, and contains antioxidants.

Potato (1, peeled and cubed, approximately 200g):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100g):

   - Calories: 77

   - Protein: 2g

   - Carbohydrates: 17g

   - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Provides carbohydrates for energy, and is a good source of vitamins C and B6, potassium, and fiber.

Paprika (1 tablespoon or 6g):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100g):

   - Calories: 282

   - Protein: 14g

   - Carbohydrates: 54g

   - Fat: 12g

Benefits: Adds flavor and color. Contains antioxidants like vitamin A and capsaicin, which may have anti-inflammatory properties.

Caraway Seeds (1 teaspoon or 2g):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100g):

   - Calories: 333

   - Protein: 19g

   - Carbohydrates: 50g

   - Fat: 8g

Benefits: May aid digestion and help alleviate gastrointestinal issues. Adds a distinctive flavor to the dish.

Bay Leaf (1 leaf):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100g):

   - Calories: 313

   - Protein: 7g

   - Carbohydrates: 75g

   - Fat: 8g

Benefits: Adds flavor and may have digestive and anti-inflammatory properties. Typically used for flavor rather than nutritional content.

For the Beef or Vegetable Broth:

Beef or Vegetable Broth (1 liter):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100ml):

   - Calories: 15

   - Protein: 2g

   - Carbohydrates: 0g

   - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Provides flavor and some nutrients. Homemade broth can offer collagen and minerals beneficial for joint health.

Vegetable Oil (2 tablespoons or 30ml):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100ml):

   - Calories: 884

   - Protein: 0g

   - Carbohydrates: 0g

   - Fat: 100g

Benefits: Provides essential fatty acids and helps achieve a crispy texture when used for cooking. Adds flavor to the dish.

Smoked Sausage (100g, sliced):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100g):

   - Calories: 300

   - Protein: 12g

   - Carbohydrates: 1g

   - Fat: 25g

Benefits: Adds flavor and richness. High in protein but also high in fat and sodium, so use in moderation.

Dried Mushrooms (2 tablespoons or 10g):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100g):

   - Calories: 296

   - Protein: 26g

   - Carbohydrates: 59g

   - Fat: 2g

Benefits: Adds umami flavor and provides nutrients like protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals.

For the Fresh Dill or Parsley (for garnish):

Fresh Dill or Parsley (for garnish, approximate 2 tablespoons or 8g):

  - Approximate Nutritional Values (per 100g):

   - Calories: 36

   - Protein: 3g

   - Carbohydrates: 6g

   - Fat: 0g

Benefits: Rich in vitamins A, C, and K, and contains antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds.