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Cozy Slow Cooker Polish Kielbasa with Sauerkraut and Potatoes

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A hearty and comforting slow cooker meal featuring smoky Polish kielbasa, tangy sauerkraut, and tender potatoes, perfect for busy days and chilly evenings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450g) Polish kielbasa, sliced into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 24 ounces (680g) sauerkraut, drained
  • 1 1/2 pounds (700g) Yukon Gold or red potatoes, cut into chunks
  • 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
  • Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa pieces and cook for about 3-4 minutes, turning occasionally, until they develop a light golden crust. Set aside.
  2. Rinse the potatoes and cut them into roughly 1.5-inch chunks. Peel and thinly slice the onion. Mince the garlic cloves.
  3. Spray the slow cooker insert lightly with cooking spray or rub with a bit of oil. Place the potatoes in an even layer on the bottom.
  4. Spread the sliced onions and minced garlic over the potatoes.
  5. Drain the sauerkraut well and spread it evenly over the onion layer. Optionally rinse sauerkraut lightly for less tang.
  6. Arrange the browned kielbasa pieces evenly on top of the sauerkraut.
  7. Sprinkle caraway seeds, smoked paprika, and freshly ground black pepper over the layers. Pour 1 cup (240ml) of chicken broth gently over everything.
  8. Cover and cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until potatoes are tender and flavors melded. Avoid lifting the lid too often.
  9. Before serving, gently stir to combine flavors. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Notes

Browning the kielbasa before slow cooking adds extra flavor and texture. Drain sauerkraut well to avoid excess moisture. Use Yukon Gold or red potatoes cut into larger chunks to prevent mushiness. Cooking on high for 3-4 hours is a good shortcut if short on time. Variations include adding extra vegetables, spicy peppers, or substituting potatoes with cauliflower for a low-carb option.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker, kielbasa, sauerkraut, potatoes, Polish, comfort food, easy recipe, hearty meal

Find it online: https://forkifyfun.com/cozy-slow-cooker-polish-kielbasa-with-sauerkraut-and-potatoes-recipe-made-easy/