Ingredients
Method
Step 1: Sauté the Sausage
- In a large Dutch oven or stockpot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once hot, toss in the sliced kielbasa sausage. Allow it to cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is nicely browned. This step isn’t just about cooking the sausage; it’s where flavor begins to develop.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables
- Next, introduce the chopped onion, diced bell pepper, chopped carrots, and minced garlic to the pot. Sprinkle in the kosher salt and black pepper. Stir these together and let them cook for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and the peppers soften. The smell at this point is a real treat.
Step 3: Incorporate the Flour
- Sprinkle the flour over the sausage and vegetable mixture. Stir well to coat everything, cooking for another minute or two. You want the flour to lose that raw taste and start smelling a bit toasty. This step will help thicken your soup!
Step 4: Add Liquid
- Slowly pour in the almond milk, stirring continuously to combine. Keep stirring until the mixture thickens and comes to a gentle bubble. This will take a few minutes, and you’ll want to stay on it, ensuring there are no lumps.
Step 5: Flavor it Up
- Once the mixture starts bubbling, add in the Worcestershire sauce, ground sage, and the rinsed beans. Stir everything together well, and bring the soup to a simmer.
Step 6: Let it Cook
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and let your soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes. You want the flavors to meld beautifully, giving you that hearty taste you’re aiming for. Remember to stir occasionally and taste for seasoning, adding more salt or pepper if needed.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
- Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls, sprinkle with fresh parsley for a pop of color, and serve it hot. Pair with crusty French bread or some crunchy crackers on the side.
Notes
- Choose Quality Sausage: A good quality kielbasa or any smoked sausage makes a huge difference!
- Experiment with Beans: Feel free to mix up the beans according to your preference—black beans or pinto beans can be fun switches.
- Add Greens: Consider stirring in some chopped kale or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition.
- Make it Spicy: If you enjoy a kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
- Freeze for Later: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers in airtight containers. It’s a lifesaver for quick meals later!
