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Bowl of swamp soup with smoked sausage, beans, and greens.

Introduction to the Swamp Soup Recipe


  • Author: freshrecips
  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 6 bowls of swamp soup 1x

Description

Swamp Soup is a rich, hearty Southern dish that combines smoked sausage, tender beans, and vibrant greens in a savory broth. Perfect for chilly days, this comforting soup is packed with earthy flavors and is incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re craving a filling meal or looking for a cozy dish to warm you up, this swamp soup is sure to please.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb smoked sausage (Kielbasa or Andouille)
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1 lb collard greens, turnip greens, or kale (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 can (15 oz) navy beans or cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup small pasta (elbow macaroni, ditalini, optional)
  • 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
  • 1 tsp dried thyme (optional)
  • 1 bay leaf (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Greens: Wash and chop the fresh greens (collard, turnip, or kale) into bite-sized pieces. If using frozen greens, thaw them.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics and Sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, garlic, and celery. Sauté until soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Slice smoked sausage and add to the pot. Cook until the sausage is browned, releasing its flavorful oils.
  3. Simmer the Soup: Add chicken broth, beans, and bay leaf (if using) to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
  4. Add the Greens and Pasta: Stir in the greens and let them cook down for 10-15 minutes until tender. Add pasta (if using) and cook until the pasta is tender and has absorbed the flavors.
  5. Season and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasonings with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes for added heat. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

  1. Variations: Try adding extra vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or sweet potatoes for more flavor and nutrition.
  2. Spicy Twist: For extra heat, add cayenne pepper, jalapeños, or chili flakes.
  3. Creamy Option: Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half for a creamy texture.
  4. Vegetarian Version: Replace smoked sausage with vegetarian sausage, tofu, or chickpeas and use vegetable broth for a meatless option.
  5. Slow Cooker: Add all ingredients to a slow cooker, set on low, and cook for 6-8 hours for an easy hands-off version.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 30 minutes
  • Category: dinner
  • Cuisine: Southern

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 6 servings
  • Calories: 300-350
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Protein: 20g

Keywords: Smoked sausage soup, Southern comfort food, Swamp Soup recipe