Description
A hearty and flavorful Swamp Soup featuring smoked sausage, kale, beans, and tomatoes simmered in a savory chicken broth. This comforting dish is perfect for cooler days and packs a balanced mix of protein, vegetables, and spices for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Oils
- 12 ounces smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh kale, chopped (or spinach or collard greens)
Liquids and Canned Goods
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini or Great Northern beans, drained
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional)
Instructions
- Heat oil and brown sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the sliced smoked sausage and cook for about 5 to 6 minutes until browned. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.
- Sauté onions and garlic: In the same pot, add the diced onion and sauté for 4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute to enhance the flavors.
- Add broth, tomatoes, and beans: Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes with their juice, and the drained beans. Stir well to combine.
- Return sausage and bring to boil: Add the browned sausage back into the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Add greens and simmer: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the chopped kale. Let the soup simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes until the greens are tender and flavors meld together.
- Season and finish: Season the soup with salt, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes to taste. Stir in apple cider vinegar if using, to brighten the flavors.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve with crusty bread or cornbread for a complete and comforting meal.
Notes
- You can substitute kale with spinach or collard greens depending on availability.
- For a spicier soup, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
- Apple cider vinegar is optional but adds a nice tang to the stew.
- Use gluten-free bread if a gluten-free meal is desired.
