OLD COUNTRY SAUERKRAUT SOUP

OLD COUNTRY SAUERKRAUT SOUP image

Provided by Ellen Bales

Time 35m

Number Of Ingredients 11

1 lb smoked sausage link with casing left on
1/2 c chopped onion
1/4 c all purpose flour
1/2 tsp dried thyme
1/2 tsp pepper
3 c milk
1 c half and half
1 can(s) (8 oz,) bavarian sauerkraut with juice
1 1/2 Tbsp lemon juice
2 Tbsp fresh parsley, finely chopped
may also add 1/2 - 1 cup cubed, cooked potatoes if desired

Steps:

1. Chop the sausage coursely by hand or in a food processor.
2. Transfer the chopped sausage and onion to a deep pan and saute over medium heat until the sausage is lightly browned and the onion is tender, about 10 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, combine the flour, thyme, and pepper. Add to the sausage and brown all together until the mixture bubbles up, about 5 mnutes.
4. Add the milk and half and half gradually, stirring constantly until the mixture begins to bubble again, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the sauerkraut and its juice and bring to a boil. The mixture will continue to thicken. Taste for tartness and add lemon juice, if desired. Also can add salt to taste.
6. Add parsley and serve immediately with some hot buttered pumpernickel bread.