Hearty and Flavorful: Easy Portuguese Kale Soup

Indulge in the rich flavors of Portugal with our Easy Portuguese Kale Soup recipe! This hearty and nutritious soup features a delicious combination of smoky kielbasa, tender kale, creamy potatoes, and hearty kidney beans, all simmered together in a savory chicken broth. Bursting with comforting flavors and wholesome ingredients, this soup is a satisfying meal-in-a-bowl that will warm you up from the inside out. Perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you crave a nourishing and delicious dish, this Portuguese Kale Soup is sure to become a favorite in your home. So, let’s dive into the recipe and discover how to make this flavorful soup!

Ingredients:

Meat:

1 (16-ounce) package Kielbasa, sliced into rounds

Produce:

3 Carrots, peeled and diced
3 cloves Garlic, minced
1 bunch Kale, stems removed and leaves chopped

1 Onion, diced
3 Potatoes, peeled and diced

Canned Goods:

2 (14.5-ounce) cans Chicken broth

1 (15-ounce) can Red kidney beans, drained and rinsed

Pasta & Grains:

1 cup Small elbow macaroni

Baking & Spices:

1 tbsp Ground black pepper

1 tbsp Salt

Oils & Vinegars:

2 tbsp Olive oil

Dairy:

6 tbsp Parmesan cheese, grated (for serving)

Liquids:

1 cup Water

Instructions:

Heat olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
Add the diced onion, carrots, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.

Stir in the chopped kale and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, water, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 15 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
Stir in the drained and rinsed kidney beans and the elbow macaroni. Continue to simmer, uncovered, for an additional 10 minutes, or until the macaroni is cooked to al dente and the soup has thickened slightly.

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning, if necessary, adding more salt and pepper to taste.
Ladle the Portuguese Kale Soup into bowls and sprinkle each serving with grated Parmesan cheese.
Serve hot and enjoy!

Cook Notes and Variations:

To add extra depth of flavor to the soup, you can use smoked kielbasa instead of regular kielbasa.
For a spicier kick, you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup.
Feel free to customize the soup by adding other vegetables such as celery, bell peppers, or tomatoes.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions):

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?

A: Yes, this Portuguese Kale Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Q: Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?

A: Yes, you can make a vegetarian version of this soup by omitting the kielbasa and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra vegetables or tofu for protein.

Q: Can I freeze this soup?

A: Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions:

Keto Version:

To make this soup keto-friendly, omit the potatoes and elbow macaroni. Replace them with low-carb alternatives such as cauliflower florets or zucchini noodles.
Use turkey kielbasa instead of pork kielbasa to reduce the fat content.

Low-Carb Version:

Follow the keto version instructions above to create a low-carb version of this soup.

In conclusion, our Easy Portuguese Kale Soup is a comforting and nutritious dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its hearty ingredients and savory flavors, this soup is sure to warm you up and satisfy your hunger. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply enjoying a cozy meal at home, this Portuguese-inspired recipe is a winner. So, gather your ingredients, fire up the stove, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of deliciousness that will transport you to the streets of Portugal with every spoonful!