This hearty kale and potato soup with turkey sausage is perfect for those chilly days when you need something warm and comforting. Packed with nutritious kale and red potatoes, this soup is both flavorful and satisfying.
If you don’t usually keep kale or turkey sausage at home, you might need to visit the supermarket. Kale is a leafy green that adds a nutritious punch to the soup, while turkey sausage offers a lighter alternative to traditional pork sausage.
Ingredients for Kale and Potato Soup with Turkey Sausage
sausage: Adds savory, meaty flavor to the soup.
kale: A nutrient-rich leafy green that enhances the soup's health benefits.
olive oil: Used for sautéing vegetables, adding a slight fruity flavor.
onion: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
carrot: Provides a slight sweetness and additional nutrients.
garlic cloves: Infuses the soup with aromatic flavors.
chicken broth: The base liquid that gives the soup its body and flavor.
water: Helps thin out the broth and balance the flavors.
red potatoes: Adds heartiness and texture to the soup.
dried red pepper flakes: Adds a hint of heat to the soup.
fresh ground pepper: Enhances the overall flavor with a bit of spice.
kosher salt: Balances and enhances the flavors of all ingredients.
One reader, Gavrielle Keating says:
This kale and potato soup with turkey sausage is a delightful, hearty meal. The flavors blend perfectly, and the sausage adds a wonderful depth. It's easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Perfect for a cozy dinner!
Cooking Techniques for Kale and Potato Soup with Turkey Sausage
Yes.
How to cook sausage: Explanation on how to cook sausage over medium-low heat until browned. How to cut sausage: Explanation on how to let the sausage cool and then cut it into thin slices. How to chop onions and carrots: Explanation on how to chop onions and carrots for cooking. How to mince garlic: Explanation on how to mince garlic cloves. How to bring to a boil: Explanation on how to bring the mixture of broth, water, black pepper, sausage, potatoes, and red pepper flakes to a boil. How to adjust salt: Explanation on how to taste the soup and adjust the salt as needed.
How To Make Kale and Potato Soup with Turkey Sausage
A heartwarming, healthy dish of kale and potato soup that’s made more delicious with turkey sausage. Not to mention, it’s a very nutritious bowl too!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 14ozsausage,Italian chicken or turkey
- 8cupskale,stems removed, leaves shredded
- 1tspolive oil
- 1onion,chopped
- 1medium carrot,sliced
- 4garlic cloves,chopped
- 8cupsreduced-sodium chicken broth
- 2cupswater
- 3medium red potatoes,peeled, diced into ¼-inch pieces
- 1pinchdried red pepper flakes
- ¼tspfresh ground pepper
- Kosher salt,to taste
Instructions
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In a large Dutch oven or pot, cook sausage over medium-low heat for about 10 minutes until browned.
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Remove from pot. Let cool and cut into thin slices.
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Add oil, onions, and carrots; cook on medium for about 5 minutes until soft. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
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Add broth, water, black pepper, sausage, potatoes, and red pepper flakes, then bring to a boil.
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Cook, covered for about 10 to 15 minutes. Add kale and cook partially covered for about 5 to 6 minutes or until the potatoes are tender. Adjust salt if needed.
Nutrition
- Calories: 319.69kcal
- Fat: 17.55g
- Saturated Fat: 5.21g
- Trans Fat: 0.07g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 7.10g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.21g
- Carbohydrates: 24.30g
- Fiber: 3.29g
- Sugar: 4.56g
- Protein: 17.91g
- Cholesterol: 46.30mg
- Sodium: 1457.75mg
- Calcium: 88.34mg
- Potassium: 1137.17mg
- Iron: 2.72mg
- Vitamin A: 209.56µg
- Vitamin C: 38.81mg
Expert Tip for Perfecting This Soup Recipe
To enhance the flavor of the sausage, consider browning it in the olive oil instead of cooking it dry. This will allow the sausage to develop a richer, deeper flavor and create a fond (the browned bits at the bottom of the pot) that will add complexity to the soup. After removing the sausage, use the same pot to cook the onions and carrots, scraping up the fond to incorporate those flavors into the base of your broth.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Soup Recipe
Pre-cut vegetables: Chop the onion, carrot, and garlic in advance and store them in the fridge.
Use pre-washed kale: Buy pre-washed and pre-chopped kale to save time on prep.
Quick sausage prep: Slice the sausage before cooking to reduce cooling time.
Instant broth: Use pre-made chicken broth instead of making it from scratch.
Microwave potatoes: Partially cook the potatoes in the microwave before adding them to the soup to speed up the cooking process.
Substitute Ingredients For Kale and Potato Soup with Turkey Sausage Recipe
sausage - Substitute with chicken sausage: Chicken sausage is a leaner option and still provides a similar flavor profile.
sausage - Substitute with vegetarian sausage: For a vegetarian option, use plant-based sausage to maintain the texture and flavor.
kale - Substitute with spinach: Spinach is a milder green that cooks quickly and provides a similar nutritional profile.
kale - Substitute with Swiss chard: Swiss chard has a slightly different texture but offers a similar earthy flavor.
olive oil - Substitute with canola oil: Canola oil is a neutral-flavored oil that works well for sautéing.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a high smoke point and a mild flavor, making it a good alternative.
onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, sweeter flavor compared to onions.
onion - Substitute with leeks: Leeks offer a subtle, sweet onion flavor and a different texture.
carrot - Substitute with parsnips: Parsnips have a similar texture but a slightly sweeter and nuttier flavor.
carrot - Substitute with celery: Celery provides a different flavor but adds a similar crunch and nutritional value.
garlic cloves - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used in a pinch, though fresh garlic is preferred for its robust flavor.
garlic cloves - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can add a mild garlic-like flavor when minced finely.
reduced-sodium chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth is a good option for a vegetarian version of the soup.
reduced-sodium chicken broth - Substitute with beef broth: Beef broth provides a richer, deeper flavor.
water - Substitute with additional broth: Using more broth instead of water can enhance the overall flavor of the soup.
red potatoes - Substitute with Yukon Gold potatoes: Yukon Gold potatoes have a creamy texture and hold their shape well in soups.
red potatoes - Substitute with sweet potatoes: Sweet potatoes add a different flavor and a touch of sweetness to the soup.
dried red pepper flakes - Substitute with cayenne pepper: Cayenne pepper provides a similar heat level and can be used in smaller quantities.
dried red pepper flakes - Substitute with fresh chili peppers: Fresh chili peppers can add a more vibrant heat and flavor.
fresh ground pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper has a milder flavor and can be used as a direct substitute.
fresh ground pepper - Substitute with black peppercorns: Freshly ground black peppercorns provide a robust and aromatic flavor.
kosher salt - Substitute with sea salt: Sea salt has a similar texture and flavor and can be used interchangeably.
kosher salt - Substitute with table salt: Table salt can be used, but use slightly less as it is finer and more concentrated.
How to Beautifully Present Kale and Potato Soup
Serve in a deep, elegant bowl: Choose a pristine white bowl to contrast with the vibrant colors of the kale and potatoes.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Top the soup with finely chopped fresh parsley or chives to add a pop of color and a fresh aroma.
Drizzle with high-quality olive oil: Just before serving, drizzle a small amount of extra virgin olive oil over the soup for added richness and a glossy finish.
Add a sprinkle of sea salt: Lightly sprinkle some flaky sea salt on top to enhance the flavors and add a slight crunch.
Serve with artisanal bread: Accompany the soup with a slice of warm, crusty artisanal bread on the side, perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth.
Use a microplane for garlic: For an extra touch, grate a small amount of fresh garlic over the top of the soup using a microplane, adding a subtle yet aromatic finish.
Layer the ingredients: When plating, ensure the sausage slices are visible on top, followed by the kale and potatoes, to showcase the hearty ingredients.
Serve immediately: Ensure the soup is served piping hot to maintain the integrity of the broth and the tenderness of the potatoes and kale.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Soup
Dutch oven: A large, heavy pot with a tight-fitting lid, perfect for browning sausage and simmering the soup.
Knife: Essential for chopping onions, carrots, garlic, and slicing the sausage.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables and slicing sausage.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the vegetables and soup without scratching the pot.
Measuring cups: Used to measure the broth and water accurately.
Measuring spoons: Necessary for measuring the olive oil, black pepper, and red pepper flakes.
Ladle: Useful for serving the soup once it's ready.
Peeler: Handy for peeling the carrot before chopping.
Colander: Useful for washing the kale thoroughly before adding it to the soup.
Tongs: Helpful for removing the sausage from the pot and handling the kale.
Potato masher: Optional, if you prefer a slightly mashed texture for the potatoes in the soup.
Storing and Freezing Instructions for Kale and Potato Soup
- Let the soup cool completely before storing or freezing.
- Store the cooled soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
- To freeze the soup:
- Portion the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or freezer bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
- Label the containers or bags with the date and contents.
- Freeze the soup for up to 3 months.
- To reheat the frozen soup:
- Thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator or place the frozen container in a bowl of cold water until it's partially thawed.
- Transfer the thawed soup to a pot and reheat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it's heated through.
- If the soup appears too thick after reheating, add a little chicken broth or water to adjust the consistency.
- When reheating, make sure the soup reaches a temperature of 165°F (74°C) to ensure it's safe to consume.
- If you plan to freeze the soup, consider undercooking the potatoes slightly, as they may become softer upon reheating.
- Avoid freezing the soup with the kale if you prefer it to have a firmer texture, as it may become softer after freezing and reheating. Instead, add fresh kale when reheating the soup.
How To Reheat Leftover Kale and Potato Soup
Reheat the soup in a pot on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and ensure the soup is evenly reheated without scorching or separating.
If you're short on time, you can reheat the kale and potato soup in the microwave. Transfer the desired portion to a microwave-safe bowl, cover it with a damp paper towel or a microwave-safe lid, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each interval, until the soup is heated through.
For a creamier texture, add a splash of chicken broth or water when reheating the soup to help loosen it up and prevent it from becoming too thick.
If you find the sausage has lost some of its flavor after being stored in the refrigerator, try sautéing it separately in a pan with a little olive oil before adding it back to the reheated soup. This will help restore its texture and enhance its flavor.
To add a fresh twist to your leftover soup, consider garnishing it with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, or some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives.
If you have a large portion of leftover soup, consider reheating only what you need and storing the rest in the freezer for future meals. This kale and potato soup should freeze well for up to 3 months when stored in an airtight container.
Interesting Trivia About Kale and Potato Soup
A random fact about this kale and potato soup with turkey sausage recipe is that kale is a nutrient-dense superfood, rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as minerals like calcium and iron.
Is Making Kale and Potato Soup with Turkey Sausage Cost-Effective?
This kale and potato soup with turkey sausage recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. Utilizing affordable ingredients like kale, potatoes, and carrots, it maximizes nutrition without breaking the bank. The use of reduced-sodium chicken broth and water stretches the soup further, making it a hearty meal. The most expensive component, turkey sausage, is used sparingly. Overall Verdict: 8/10. Approximate cost for a household of 4 people: $15-$20.
Is This Soup Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
This kale and potato soup with turkey sausage recipe is a nutritious and hearty meal. The inclusion of kale, a superfood packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants and fiber, makes this soup a healthy choice. The use of reduced-sodium chicken broth and the addition of vegetables like onions, carrots, and garlic further enhance the nutritional value of the dish. Turkey sausage is a leaner alternative to traditional pork sausage, reducing the overall fat content of the soup.
However, there are a few areas where the recipe could be improved to make it even healthier:
- Opt for low-fat or fat-free turkey sausage to further reduce the fat content
- Increase the amount of kale or add other leafy greens like spinach or Swiss chard for additional nutrients
- Use sweet potatoes instead of red potatoes for a boost in vitamin A and fiber
- Reduce the amount of sausage and increase the proportion of vegetables to create a more balanced meal
- Add herbs and spices like thyme, rosemary, or smoked paprika for extra flavor without increasing sodium content
Editor's Opinion on This Hearty Soup Recipe
This kale and potato soup with turkey sausage is a hearty and nutritious dish, perfect for a cozy meal. The combination of tender kale, savory sausage, and creamy potatoes creates a well-balanced flavor profile. The use of reduced-sodium chicken broth and a pinch of red pepper flakes adds depth without overwhelming the palate. The recipe is straightforward and easy to follow, making it accessible for home cooks. Adjusting the salt at the end ensures the seasoning is just right. Overall, it's a comforting and satisfying soup that can be enjoyed year-round.
Enhance Your Kale and Potato Soup with Turkey Sausage Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Kale and Potato Soup with Turkey Sausage Recipe:
This kale and potato soup with turkey sausage recipe is a must-try for its hearty and nutritious ingredients. The combination of kale, red potatoes, and turkey sausage creates a flavorful and satisfying meal. The use of reduced-sodium chicken broth and kosher salt ensures a healthier option without compromising taste. Plus, the addition of garlic and red pepper flakes adds a delightful kick. Trust this recipe for its balance of flavors and wholesome ingredients.
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