Dive headfirst into the comforting world of Polish cuisine!
I’m sharing a list of 23 amazing Polish soups that will warm you from the inside out, from the familiar flavors of beet borscht to the uniquely satisfying dill pickle soup!
1. Polish White Borscht (Bialy Barszcz)
Biały barszcz is the white cousin of the classic red borscht, but what makes it special? Its iconic white hue comes from using potatoes instead of beets.
The spuds do a fine job of making the soup extra rich and creamy. For serving, I like to add a dollop of sour cream, dill, and boiled eggs.
2. Żurek (Classic Polish Sour Rye Soup)
Żurek, or Polish sour rye soup, is a dish that always feels special. It’s crafted from a fermented rye starter, lending the broth a distinctive sour kick.
Boiled egg halves, bacon, and white Kielbasa then join the party, adding protein and even more flavor. Recipes will vary across regions, but there’s no denying Żurek is a Polish staple.
3. Polish Chicken Noodle Soup (Rosół)
This is a classic Polish soup of egg noodles simmered in a rich and flavorful broth with chicken and carrots. As simple as it is, rosol is both comforting and filling.
It’s an ideal meal for cold winter days when you want warmth without a lengthy recipe. Consider adding your favorite fresh herbs for an extra flavor burst.
4. Polish Tomato Rice Soup (Pomidorowa z Ryzem)
Polish tomato rice soup, also known as ‘pomidorowa z ryzem’, is a celebration of bold flavors with tomatoes, rice, and vegetables all joining in.
It’s often paired with a protein like sausage or chicken and other sides like bread or butter. While this hearty soup may seem unassuming at first, its rustic flavors come together in magical harmony.
5. Fasolowa (Polish Bean Soup)
Zupa fasolowa is a flavor party featuring creamy white beans, bacon, potatoes, herbs, and spices. The white beans and bacon create a smoky flavor combo you won’t find anywhere else.
Putting this delicious soup together won’t require a ton of effort, which makes it perfect for busy days. Remember to soak the beans in water for ten hours beforehand, though.
6. Polish Pumpkin Soup Recipe (Zupa Dyniowa)
This creamy orange classic has hints of nutmeg, ginger, and turmeric for added warmth. Expect a touch of spice to temper the pumpkin’s sweetness.
Since this is a Polish recipe, expect potatoes in the mix. These starchy spuds ensure this soup reaches extra-thick and filling status.
7. Polish Yellow Split Pea Soup (Grochówka)
Grochówka is a traditional Polish dish with plenty of flavors to warm the heart. It starts with yellow split peas cooked with potatoes, carrots, and parsnips.
Vegetable broth acts as the backbone for the soup, which gets finished with soya cream for added richness. This soup is hearty, but serve with a piece of warm bread if you’re extra hungry.
8. Polish Winter White Soup (Zupa Krem z Białych Warzyw)
Winter white soup is a seasonal favorite that’s surprisingly light and slightly tart. This soup stars white vegetables such as potatoes, parsnips, celery, and even horseradish.
These vegetables are simmered in a smooth sour cream broth for a balanced flavor. It’s surprisingly light yet hearty and comforting at the same time.
9. Polish Sauerkraut Soup (Kapusniak)
Kapusniak is an incredibly rich soup featuring hearty vegetables like potatoes, leeks, carrots, and parsnip. The sauerkraut brightens the soup’s entire flavor profile with its distinctive zing.
I can’t get enough of this fantastic soup on cold nights.
10. Chłodnik (Polish Beet Summer Cooler Soup)
Chłodnik is a traditional Polish summer cooler soup made of beets and buttermilk. Add a dollop of crème fraîche for extra creaminess just before you serve. To add even more flavor and a pop of color, sprinkle some fresh dill and chopped green onions.
Best when eaten chilled, this soup is light and refreshing. It’s perfect for those days when it’s simply too hot to eat heavy foods.
11. Krupnik (Polish Barley Soup)
Krupnik is a hearty and warming soup hailing from Eastern Europe, otherwise known as Polish barley soup. Dried mushrooms, root vegetables, potatoes, and dried juniper berries give the soup both its aromatic qualities and its rich flavor.
It’s a filling, satisfying dish that really sticks to your ribs. Serve krupnik with rye bread and make it a complete Polish meal!
12. Creamy Potato Dill Soup (Zupa Koperkowa)
Zupa Koperkowa is a vegetarian delight with creamy textures guaranteed to excite your taste buds. Fresh dill and potatoes take center stage in this soup, which is finished with a hint of nutmeg for added warmth.
This classic comfort food hits the spot every time, and it can be served as a complete meal or an appetizer, depending on the portion size.
13. Zupa Owocowa (Polish Fruit Soup)
If you crave a sweet soup to shake things up, this one’s definitely worth trying. Made with a thick and sweetened puree of mixed berries, this soup packs a highly refreshing punch.
The best part? You can enjoy zupa owocowa warm or cold, as both preparations are wonderfully delicious.
14. Polish Beet Borscht Soup
This traditional Polish beet borsch soup is a hearty and flavorful staple. Its beet base gives the soup an earthy body, while the vegetable stock highlights its richness and warmth.
Sugar adds just enough sweetness to cut through any tang, leaving you craving more. And finally, garlic gives it a savory kick sure to elevate this comforting and satisfying dish.
15. Polish Strawberry Soup (Zupa Truskawkowa z Makaronem)
Strawberry soup with pasta might raise some eyebrows, but I promise it works. A thick mix of strawberries, cream, and sugar forms the broth, while pasta shells offer a welcome contrast through their subtle starchiness.
This recipe is an exciting way to use summer’s sweetest fruit.
16. Polish Sorrel Soup (Zupa Szczawiowa)
For Polish sorrel soup, spinach dock is a must. This leafy green has a distinct lemon flavor that really sings. Potatoes, carrots, and celery are tossed in as well for added oomph.
Bay leaf and allspice berries boost the depth of flavor. You’ll find yourself with a meal full of lively flavors you’re sure to love.
17. Flaki (Polish Tripe Soup)
Flaki, or Polish tripe soup, is an incredibly flavorful creation brimming with rich and savory goodness. The star is beef tripe, taken from the stomach lining of a cow.
Soft yet chewy, the tripe gives the soup a texture that stands apart. Juniper berries and spices like marjoram and paprika are stirred into the broth for an even more unique flavor profile.
18. Kielbasa (Polish Sausage Soup)
Kielbasa soup is a hearty Polish soup featuring loads of sausages, potatoes, carrots, and cabbage, providing an excellent way to warm up on those colder days. Not only does this hearty dish provide warmth and comfort, but also a great deal of nourishment.
The carbs from the potatoes, the sausage’s protein, and the vitamins in the veggies all make this soup a complete and nourishing meal.
19. Zupa Ogórkowa (Polish Dill Pickle Soup)
Zupa ogórkowa, or Polish dill pickle soup, will delight you with its unique flavor. This soup gains its iconic flavor from dill pickles flavored with garlic and simmered in a creamy broth. Fresh dill gives the soup its bright, herbal character.
Carrots, celery, and potatoes add color and heartiness. You can add a dollop of sour cream or crème fraiche to finish for a delicious balance of flavors.
20. Chrzanowa (Polish Horseradish Soup with Bacon & Egg)
Chrzanowa, or Polish horseradish soup, has a wonderfully piquant flavor that makes it unique. The horseradish’s sharpness is nicely balanced by heavy cream, creating a perfect flavor marriage.
For a grand finish, I recommend topping this soup with slices of smoky bacon and creamy boiled eggs.
21. Czernina (Polish Duck Blood Soup)
Czernina, or duck blood soup, is a distinctively Polish dish with centuries of history behind it. Duck’s blood gives this soup its slightly sour tang, while dried fruit such as apricots and cherries counterbalances that tang with their sweetness.
Overall, it’s a dish that manages to be both sweet and sour at the same time. I recommend tossing in egg noodles for a filling and nutritious meal.
22. Polish Kohlrabi Soup (Zupa z Kalarepy)
Kohlrabi Soup is a traditional Polish dish made from shredded kohlrabi, potatoes, onions, and a clear broth. What’s special about this soup is kohlrabi, which looks a bit like cabbage, and tastes mild, sweet, and spicy.
It’s akin to radish, yet nuttier. In this soup, kohlrabi really shines, bringing both comfort and delicious flavor.