Few soups evoke the warmth and comfort of home like Polish Dill Soup, known in Poland as Zupa Koperkowa. This vibrant, creamy soup has been a staple of Polish kitchens for generations, celebrated for its delicate balance of herbs, vegetables, and a hint of tangy sour cream. Imagine a chilly evening, a steaming bowl of golden broth, tender potatoes, sweet peas, and the fragrant aroma of fresh dill filling the air—this soup is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl.
Polish Dill Soup is versatile, easy to prepare, and perfect for family dinners, weeknight meals, or even festive occasions. Its combination of simple ingredients—potatoes, carrots, peas, and aromatic spices—creates a rich, savory flavor without being heavy. The addition of fresh dill and sour cream elevates it into something truly special, making it a standout in any soup repertoire. Whether you grew up with it or are discovering it for the first time, this soup is sure to become a beloved classic in your kitchen.
Recipe Overview
Polish Dill Soup is a creamy, comforting soup with tender potatoes, sweet peas, and aromatic vegetables, enriched with sour cream and fresh dill. This Eastern European favorite is simple to make yet packed with flavor. Perfect as a starter or a light main dish, it’s a family-friendly recipe that warms the soul and delights the taste buds.
Ingredients & Instructions
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp unsalted butter
- 1 brown onion, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 3 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 scallions, chopped (white and light green parts)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp dried marjoram
- ¼ tsp ground turmeric
- ¼ tsp ground nutmeg
- 1 bay leaf
- 3 waxy potatoes, diced (about 10 oz)
- ½ cup frozen green peas
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
- 4 tbsp full-fat sour cream, at room temperature
- 4 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (divided)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Vegetables
Start by peeling and dicing the potatoes and carrots. Chop the onion, scallions, and dill, and mince the garlic. Preparing all your ingredients ahead ensures a smooth cooking process.
2. Sauté Aromatics
In a large soup pot, melt butter over medium-low heat. Add the garlic and onion, cooking for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, stir in carrots and scallions, cooking for an additional 2 minutes until they begin to soften.
Tip: Don’t let the garlic brown too much—it can turn bitter. Keep the heat moderate for gentle sautéing.
3. Add Spices
Mix in salt, black pepper, dried marjoram, turmeric, nutmeg, and the bay leaf. These spices create a warm, aromatic base that elevates the vegetables and broth.
4. Add Potatoes, Peas, and Broth
Add the diced potatoes, green peas, and broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer until the vegetables are tender. This usually takes about 15–20 minutes, depending on the size of your potato cubes.
Pro Tip: For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken or vegetable broth.
5. Add Sour Cream and Dill
Stir in sour cream and 3 tablespoons of chopped dill, cooking uncovered for an additional 5 minutes. This step adds creaminess and a fresh herbal aroma, characteristic of traditional Polish Dill Soup.
6. Adjust and Serve
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish with the remaining dill for a vibrant, fresh finish. Serve hot with a slice of crusty bread or a sprinkle of paprika for extra color.
Tip: For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The soup remains just as flavorful and comforting.
Cooking Tips & Variations
Polish Dill Soup is naturally versatile, and a few simple tweaks can make it perfect for your preferences:
1. Add More Vegetables
You can include parsnips, celery, or bell peppers to add extra flavor and nutrients.
2. Creamier Texture
For a smoother soup, blend half of the soup before adding the sour cream. This creates a silky texture while still retaining chunks of potatoes and vegetables.
3. Herb Enhancements
Fresh dill is traditional, but you can mix in parsley, chives, or tarragon for a nuanced herbal flavor.
4. Protein Boost
Add cooked chicken, turkey, or tofu for a heartier meal. Simply stir in the protein at the last step to heat through.
5. Spice Adjustments
If you prefer a slightly stronger flavor, add a dash of smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or lemon zest to brighten the soup.
Storage & Serving Suggestions
Storage
- Refrigerator: Keep leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Serving Suggestions
Polish Dill Soup is delightful as a starter, light lunch, or dinner paired with:
- Crusty bread or rye toast
- Simple green salad for a fresh contrast
- Pickled vegetables on the side for an authentic Eastern European touch
The tang of sour cream and the freshness of dill make it especially satisfying in colder months, perfect for warming up on a chilly day.
Polish Dill Soup is a timeless Eastern European classic that’s easy to prepare and impossible not to love. With its creamy texture, tender vegetables, and fragrant dill, it’s both comforting and elegant. Perfect for family meals, weeknight dinners, or cozy gatherings, this soup demonstrates that simple ingredients, combined with thoughtful preparation, can create extraordinary flavor.
Whether you’re revisiting childhood memories or discovering it for the first time, this soup offers a taste of tradition and a bowl full of warmth. Give it a try—you might find it becoming your new go-to comfort food.
FAQs
1. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The flavor remains rich and satisfying.
2. Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare the soup and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
3. Can I freeze Polish Dill Soup?
Yes. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
4. How can I make it creamier?
Blend half of the soup before adding sour cream, or add a little extra sour cream for richness.
5. Can I use fresh peas instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh peas work wonderfully—just add them towards the end of cooking to maintain their texture and sweetness.
Polish Dill Soup is a creamy, comforting Eastern European classic with potatoes, peas, and fresh dill. Easy, flavorful, and perfect for cozy dinners.