Polish Dill Pickle Soup (Zupa Ogórkowa – Cozy, Tangy & Comforting)

This Polish dill pickle soup (zupa ogórkowa) is a cozy, tangy, and comforting soup made with potatoes, carrots, and dill pickles in a creamy, flavorful broth. Inspired by traditional Polish recipes, this easy version keeps the classic sour-salty balance while simplifying the process for everyday cooking.

If you enjoy unique comfort foods like Hungarian Goulash or traditional dishes like Stuffed Cabbage (Golabki), this pickle soup is a must-try. For more cozy meals, explore the Eastern European Comfort Food Recipes

Why You’ll Love This

• Unique, tangy flavor that’s surprisingly comforting

• Authentic Polish-inspired recipe made easy

• Cozy soup perfect for colder days

• Budget-friendly with simple ingredients

• Great way to use pantry staples

Recipe Card

• Prep Time: 15 minutes

• Cook Time: 30 minutes

• Total Time: 45 minutes

• Servings: 4

Nutrition Information

(Estimated per serving)

• Calories: 290 kcal

• Protein: 10 g

• Carbohydrates: 30 g

• Fat: 14 g

• Fiber: 3 g

• Sugar: 4 g

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1 small onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 2 cups (300 g) potatoes, peeled and diced

• 1 large carrot, grated or finely chopped

• 4 cups (1 liter) chicken or vegetable broth

• 1 cup (150 g) dill pickles, grated or finely chopped

• ½ cup (120 ml) pickle juice (adjust to taste)

• ½ cup (120 ml) sour cream

• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour

• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped

• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.

2. Add onion and cook until soft, about 5 minutes.

3. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.

4. Add potatoes, carrot, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.

5. Cook for 15–20 minutes until vegetables are tender.

6. Stir in grated pickles and pickle juice. Simmer for 5 minutes.

7. In a small bowl, whisk sour cream and flour until smooth.

8. Slowly add a ladle of hot soup to the mixture (to temper), then stir it back into the pot.

9. Simmer gently for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.

10. Stir in fresh dill and season to taste. Serve warm.

What to Serve With

• Serve with Potato & Cheese Pierogi for a traditional Polish meal

• Pair with Sauerkraut & Mushroom Pierogi for a full comfort food spread

• Add crusty bread to balance the tangy flavor

Tips & Variations

• Use full-sour dill pickles for the best flavor

• Adjust pickle juice to control tanginess

• Add shredded chicken for extra protein

• Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter option

• Let the soup sit — flavor improves after resting

Make-Ahead & Storage

• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days

• Reheat gently to prevent curdling

• Not ideal for freezing due to dairy

• Stir well when reheating

FAQ

What does Polish pickle soup taste like?

It’s tangy, creamy, and savory with a unique sour flavor that’s surprisingly comforting.

Is dill pickle soup really traditional?

Yes, it’s a classic Polish dish known as zupa ogórkowa.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Yes, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I make it less sour?

Reduce the pickle juice slightly to balance the flavor.

Final Thoughts

This Polish dill pickle soup is a perfect example of how traditional recipes can be both unique and deeply comforting. Its tangy flavor and creamy texture make it a standout dish that’s easy to love once you try it. For more cozy meals, explore the Soups and Stews collection.