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DINNER

Estonian Hapukapsasupp (Sauerkraut Soup) with Smoked Pork and Sour Cream

Warm up with a hearty bowl of Estonian Hapukapsasupp, a traditional sauerkraut soup featuring tender smoked pork and a dollop of cooling sour cream. This comforting dish is perfect for a chilly evening, offering a delightful balance of tangy, savory, and creamy flavors.

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HOW TO MAKE IT

Let's cook.

01

Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 1 pound of cubed smoked pork shoulder and cook until lightly browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove the pork from the pot and set aside.

02

Add 1 large finely chopped onion to the pot and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Add 1 minced garlic clove and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.

03

Return the smoked pork to the pot. Add 2 pounds of rinsed and squeezed dry sauerkraut, 6 cups of chicken broth, 1 teaspoon of caraway seeds, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Stir to combine.

04

Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45-50 minutes, or until the pork is very tender and the flavors have melded.

05

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve with a dollop of 1/2 cup of sour cream on top of each serving.

About This Recipe

Warm up with a hearty bowl of Estonian Hapukapsasupp, a traditional sauerkraut soup featuring tender smoked pork and a dollop of cooling sour cream. This comforting dish is perfect for a chilly evening, offering a delightful balance of tangy, savory, and creamy flavors.
Estonian Hapukapsasupp (Sauerkraut Soup) with Smoked Pork and Sour Cream
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.
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Chef's Tips

For a richer flavor, you can brown the smoked pork a bit more aggressively in step 1. If your sauerkraut is very salty, you might want to rinse it twice. A pinch of sugar can help balance the acidity if the sauerkraut is too tart.
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Easy Substitutions

If smoked pork shoulder is unavailable, smoked ham hocks or even thick-cut smoked bacon can be used. Vegetable broth can replace chicken broth for a lighter flavor. For a dairy-free option, omit the sour cream or use a plant-based alternative.
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Storage & Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat until warmed through. Freezing is not recommended as sauerkraut can become mushy.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this hearty soup with a slice of dark rye bread for dipping. A side of boiled potatoes or a simple green salad would also complement the dish well. For a more substantial meal, you can add cooked barley to the soup during the last 15 minutes of simmering. A sprinkle of fresh dill or parsley on top adds a nice touch of freshness.

Common Mistakes

Not rinsing the sauerkraut enough can result in an overly salty or sour soup. Overcooking the pork will make it dry and tough, so ensure it's simmered just until tender. Forgetting to adjust seasoning at the end can leave the soup bland; always taste and add salt or pepper as needed. Adding sour cream too early can cause it to curdle, so always add it as a garnish just before serving.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

While traditional Hapukapsasupp relies on smoked pork for flavor, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the pork and using vegetable broth. You might want to add smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a hint of smoky flavor.

What kind of sauerkraut should I use?

Look for good quality, unpasteurized sauerkraut in the refrigerated section of your grocery store. It will have a better texture and flavor than canned varieties.

Can I add other vegetables?

While not traditional, you could add diced carrots or potatoes along with the onion for extra vegetables and heartiness. Add them early enough so they have time to cook through.
MORE TO KNOW
The key to a great Hapukapsasupp lies in the quality of your sauerkraut and the slow simmering process. Rinsing the sauerkraut is crucial to remove excess salt and some of its sharp acidity, allowing the other flavors to shine. The caraway seeds are a traditional Estonian spice that complements the sauerkraut beautifully, adding a subtle anise-like warmth. Don't rush the simmering; it's what makes the pork incredibly tender and allows the flavors to deepen and meld into a truly comforting soup.
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