Swamp Soup Recipe is a rustic, flavorful dish that embodies the essence of Southern cuisine. Packed with smoky sausage, tender greens, and a savory broth, this soup is perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings. Its versatility allows for easy customization, making it a favorite among home cooks. Dive into this recipe to create a comforting bowl of swamp soup that’s sure to impress!

Swamp Soup Recipe Servings

6 people

Estimated Cost

Approximately $15–20 USD

Prep Time

20 minutes

Course

Main course

Cuisine

Southern American

Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven
Cutting board
Knife
Wooden spoon
Ladle

Ingredients

1 lb smoked sausage (andouille or kielbasa), sliced
2 cups fresh kale or collard greens, chopped
1 cup diced onions
1 cup diced celery
1 cup diced bell peppers (green or red)
2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
2 carrots, peeled and chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 cups chopped tomatoes (fresh or canned)
6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 tsp Cajun or Creole seasoning
1 tbsp dried thyme
2 bay leaves
1 tsp smoked paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: 1/2 tsp filé powder (for thickening)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Ingredients

Wash and chop all vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Slice the sausage into thin rounds. Organize your ingredients for easy access during cooking.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions, celery, bell peppers, and garlic. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 3: Brown the Sausage

Add the sliced sausage to the pot and cook until browned. This step enhances the soup’s smoky flavor.

Step 4: Build the Base

Add potatoes, carrots, tomatoes, Cajun seasoning, thyme, bay leaves, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.

Step 5: Add Broth

Pour in chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer for about 30 minutes until vegetables are tender.

Step 6: Incorporate Greens

Stir in chopped kale or collard greens during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Allow them to wilt but retain their vibrant color.

Step 7: Adjust Seasoning

Taste the soup and adjust seasoning as needed. For added heat, sprinkle cayenne pepper or add a splash of hot sauce.

Step 8: Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Pair with cornbread or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Calories

Approximately 250 kcal per serving

Recipe Notes

Vegetarian Option: Replace sausage with plant-based alternatives and use vegetable broth.
Customizations: Substitute kale with spinach or collard greens; swap potatoes for sweet potatoes.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Reheating: Warm gently on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.

Swamp Soup Recipe

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