Czech Comfort Soup
3 to 4 cups Steinfeld's Sauerkraut, soaked and well rinsed
3/4 pound bacon in 1" pieces
1 and 1/2 pound sweet onion, in a large dice
6 cloves garlic, coarsely chopped
1 and 1/2 teaspoon hot Hungarian paprika (substitute regular paprika)
1/2 teaspoon pepper
1(28 oz) can Italian plum tomatoes
6 cups good Chicken Stock (if using premade, use organic)
1/2 cup golden raisins
3 cinnamon sticks
3 bay leaves
3/4 pound beef smoked sausage, thinly sliced
salt to taste
2 to 3 tablespoons minced parsley
Cook bacon over medium high heat for 3 minutes. Add onion and garlic, saute 4 to 6 minutes until onion is wilted. Add Sauerkraut, paprika and pepper. Cook 4 to 6 minutes. Add tomatoes with juice, chicken stock, raisins, cinnamon sticks and bay leaves. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer 40 to 45 minutes. Remove cinnamon sticks. Add sausage and parsley. (Option: Serve over a dollop of mashed potatoes)
Sonya, Austin, TX - Second Place Winner (Soups), Steinfeld’s Sauerkraut Recipe Contest 2006