BEST KIELBASA RECIPES

Steps:

• Preheat the oven to 450 degrees F and line a rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper. Turn up four edges of a large piece of foil to make a rectangular tray (about 12 by 5 inches) for the sauerkraut; set aside
• On one side of the baking sheet, toss the potatoes with 1 tablespoon of the olive oil, and sprinkle with some salt and pepper; spread the potatoes into an even layer. Place the kielbasa on the other side of the baking sheet, leaving an empty place in the center for the foil tray. Brush the kielbasa with the remaining olive oil. Roast until the kielbasa begins to brown in spots and the potatoes are almost completely tender, about 15 minutes. 
• Toss the sauerkraut with the caraway seeds and spread into an even layer in the prepared foil baking tray. Place the foil tray in the center of the baking sheet. Roast until the potatoes are completely tender and browned, the sauerkraut is warmed through and the kielbasa is browned in spots, 15 minutes more. Divide sausage and vegetables between two plates and enjoy.

Steps:

• Heat 1/4 cup olive oil in a large (11 to 12-inch) pot or Dutch oven, such as Le Creuset, over medium-high heat. Add the leeks, onion, and carrots and cook for 7 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender and starting to brown. Stir in the garlic and cook for one minute. Stir in the peas to coat with oil and cook for one minute. Add 8 cups of the chicken stock, 2 cups water, the ham hock, thyme bundle, bay leaves, 2 teaspoons salt, and 1 teaspoon pepper. Bring to a boil, lower the heat, and simmer, partially covered, for 1 1/4 hours, stirring occasionally, until the peas are very tender and falling apart. After 45 minutes, stir more frequently, scraping the bottom of the pot to be sure the soup doesn’t burn.
• Discard the thyme bundle, bay leaves, and ham hock. Transfer 2 cups of the soup to the bowl of a food processor fitted with the steel blade and purée. Return the purée to the pot, adding more chicken stock or water if the soup is too thick.
• To serve, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a medium (10 to 11-inch) sauté pan over medium heat. Add the kielbasa and sauté for 5 to 6 minutes, tossing occasionally, until the kielbasa is browned. Serve the soup hot with the kielbasa and parsley sprinkled on top.
• Make ahead: Reheat the soup over low heat, adding chicken stock or water to thin.