Traditional Zemiakový Kapustník: A Hearty Slovak Potato-Cabbage Soup Recipe

Ingredients

4 large potatoes
1 medium onion
2 cloves of garlic
1 medium head cabbage
1 cup sauerkraut
1 teaspoon caraway seeds
1 teaspoon marjoram
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 liter vegetable broth
Salt and pepper to taste

Steps and instructions

Peel and cut the potatoes into small cubes.
Chop the onion and garlic finely.
Shred the cabbage and rinse the sauerkraut.
Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the onions and garlic to the pot and sauté until they are translucent.
Add the caraway seeds and marjoram to the pot and stir well.
Add the potatoes, cabbage, and sauerkraut to the pot and mix everything together.
Pour the vegetable broth into the pot and bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Tools for making

Cutting board - A surface to chop and prepare ingredients.
Knife - A sharp knife for cutting the vegetables.
Large pot - A pot large enough to hold all the ingredients.
Wooden spoon - A spoon for stirring the ingredients while cooking.
Measuring cup - A cup for measuring the vegetable broth.
Salt and pepper shakers - For seasoning the dish to taste.

Recipe variations

Add cooked bacon or sausage for a meaty version.
Replace the vegetable broth with chicken or beef broth for a richer flavor.
Add diced tomatoes or tomato paste for a slightly tangy taste.
Include chopped mushrooms for added depth of flavor.
Experiment with different spices like paprika, thyme, or bay leaves.
Consider adding diced carrots or bell peppers for added color and texture.
Add a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for a hint of acidity.
For a creamy twist, stir in some sour cream or heavy cream towards the end of cooking.
Swap the potatoes for sweet potatoes or butternut squash for a different flavor profile.

Recipe overview

Zemiakový kapustník is a hearty and comforting Slovak soup that is perfect for those cold winter days. Made with a combination of potatoes, cabbage, and sauerkraut, it is a delicious and filling meal that is sure to warm you up. The addition of caraway seeds and marjoram give this soup a unique and flavorful twist. With a prep time of around 15 minutes and a cooking time of 30 minutes, this is an easy-to-make dish that is sure to become a family favorite. The recipe serves 4 to 6 people, making it a great option for a family dinner or a small gathering.

Common questions

Can I use different types of potatoes? Yes, you can use different types of potatoes based on your preference. However, make sure to choose potatoes that are suitable for boiling and hold their shape well.
Can I use fresh cabbage instead of sauerkraut? Yes, you can use fresh cabbage instead of sauerkraut. Simply increase the amount of cabbage and adjust the seasoning according to your taste.
Can I use chicken or beef broth instead of vegetable broth? Yes, you can use chicken or beef broth if you prefer. It will add a different flavor to the dish.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian/vegan? Yes, this recipe can easily be made vegetarian or vegan by using vegetable broth and omitting any animal-based ingredients.
How can I make this dish gluten-free? To make this dish gluten-free, ensure that the vegetable broth you use is gluten-free and double-check the ingredients of the sauerkraut to ensure it doesn't contain any gluten additives.
Can I add additional spices or herbs? Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with additional spices or herbs to enhance the flavor of the dish to your liking.

Serving dishes and utensils

Potato peeler - For peeling the potatoes.
Knife - For chopping the onion and garlic.
Cutting board - To provide a surface for chopping and preparing the ingredients.
Large pot - For cooking the Zemiakový kapustník.
Stirring spoon - To mix the ingredients in the pot.
Measuring spoons - To accurately measure the caraway seeds, marjoram, and other seasonings.
Vegetable broth - To add flavor and depth to the dish.
Salt and pepper shakers - For seasoning the Zemiakový kapustník to taste.
Soup bowls - For serving the dish.
Soup ladle - To portion and serve the Zemiakový kapustník into bowls.

Origin stories

Zemiakový kapustník is a traditional Slovak soup, heartwarming and satisfying, often savored during the cold winter months. The beauty of this dish lies not just in its flavors, but also in its simplicity, reflecting the humble yet rich agricultural roots of Slovakian countryside. It is said that the soup is a testament to the ingeniousness of Slovak peasants who, in times of scarcity, made use of every bit of produce they had, including potatoes and cabbage, creating a nourishing meal that could feed a large family. Over time, the soup has become a cherished part of Slovak culinary heritage, loved for its comfort and a sense of home it brings with every spoonful.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.