Quick Russian Solyanka Soup

Step 1

Place a large pot over medium-high heat and add the sliced sausage, spreading it across the bottom so pieces lay flat in a single layer.

Step 2

Stir the sausage once every 30 seconds until the edges turn golden brown and oil begins to release, about 3 minutes total.

Step 3

Add the diced ham or bacon to the pot and stir together with the sausage for 1 minute until the ham is warm and the two meats are evenly mixed.

Step 4

Pour in the beef broth, then add the diced potatoes and stir gently to submerge them evenly in the liquid.

Step 5

Increase heat to high and bring the liquid to a rolling boil, watching until the surface shows large bubbles breaking continuously, about 4 minutes.

Step 6

Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered until the potatoes are tender when pierced with a fork, about 8 minutes.

Step 7

Add the diced pickled cucumbers and pickle juice, then stir for 30 seconds until evenly combined throughout the soup.

Step 8

Taste a spoonful from the center of the pot and add salt or pepper if needed—the pickle juice is already quite salty, so go slow.

Step 9

Ladle the soup into bowls, making sure each bowl gets an equal share of meat, potatoes, and broth.