1 cup sauerkraut 1/2 cup sauerkraut juice 2 tablespoons cornstarch (optional), plus 2 tablespoons cold water Cut the bacon into small chunks. Fry the bacon in a Dutch oven, or sturdy 2 gallon ...

8 slices bacon, finely chopped ½ pound lean beef, cut in 1-inch dice ½ pound lean, boneless pork shoulder or venison, cut in 1-inch dice 1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced 2 large carrots ...

The Wigilia features traditional Polish dishes including salmon in horseradish sauce, pickled beets in orange sauce, pierogis, stewed sauerkraut with mushrooms and fresh vegetables.

Sauerkraut and smoky kielbasa are the stars in kapusniak. "It's the healthiest and most flavorful soup I know. It's sharp, peppery and warming and perfect for all those cold months," Kaminska said.