Żurek

Żurek – hearty Polish sour rye soup
Poland
⏱ — min. Serves: —

Żurek is a beloved Polish soup made from a sour rye starter, known for its unique tangy flavor. It's traditionally enjoyed during Easter but is also a comforting dish year-round, often served with sausage and hard-boiled eggs. This soup holds cultural significance in Poland, symbolizing the arrival of spring and abundance.

⚡ Easy 🔥 ~250 kcal / serving

Ingredients

  • 1 cup sour rye starter (żur)
  • 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds
  • 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 cup kielbasa (Polish sausage), sliced
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh dill (for garnish, optional)
  • Hard-boiled eggs (for serving, optional)

Instructions

Prepare the Base

In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and cook until the onion is translucent.

Add the bay leaves, dried thyme, and caraway seeds. Stir to combine.

Cook the Soup

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a boil.

Add the diced potatoes and cook until they are tender, about 10-15 minutes.

Stir in the kielbasa and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

Finish the Soup

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the sour rye starter (żur). Simmer for 5-10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Add the heavy cream and stir well. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Remove the bay leaves before serving.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh dill and serve with hard-boiled eggs if desired.

Enjoy your meal!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Żurek?

Żurek is a traditional Polish soup made from fermented rye flour, known for its distinctive sour taste.

Where does Żurek come from?

Żurek originates from Poland and has been a staple in Polish cuisine for centuries.

What are the main ingredients in Żurek?

Key ingredients include sour rye starter, broth, onion, garlic, bay leaves, thyme, and caraway seeds.

How long does Żurek take to make?

Żurek takes about 40-50 minutes to prepare and cook.

What do you serve with Żurek?

It is commonly served with sausage, hard-boiled eggs, and a sprinkle of fresh dill.