Name: Dill Pickle Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Polish
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons butter; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 7 cups chicken broth; 1/2 cup finely chopped dill pickles; 2 tablespoons dill pickle juice; 2 tablespoons white sugar; 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce; 4 teaspoons onion salt; 2 teaspoons minced garlic; 1 teaspoon dill weed; 1 teaspoon curry powder; 1/2 teaspoon white pepper; 2 large bay leaves; 2 cups warm milk

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Dill Pickle Soup is a creamy, tangy, and savory dish that combines the unique flavor of dill pickles with a comforting soup base. This Polish-inspired recipe is surprisingly hearty and delicious, balancing the sourness of pickles with smooth, creamy broth. Perfect for pickle lovers, it makes a great starter or main course served with crusty bread.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A unique twist on traditional creamy soups with a tangy dill pickle kick.
Balanced flavors from sweet, sour, and savory ingredients.
Quick and easy to prepare in under 40 minutes.
A cozy comfort food that’s ideal for cold days.
Easily customizable with potatoes, carrots, or shredded chicken.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of Ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 tablespoons butter
1/2 cup all-purpose flour
7 cups chicken broth
1/2 cup finely chopped dill pickles
2 tablespoons dill pickle juice
2 tablespoons white sugar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
4 teaspoons onion salt
2 teaspoons minced garlic
1 teaspoon dill weed
1 teaspoon curry powder
1/2 teaspoon white pepper
2 large bay leaves
2 cups warm milk

Directions

In a large stockpot, melt the butter over medium heat. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1–2 minutes until it turns pale beige.
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth until smooth and slightly thickened, about 2–3 minutes.
Add the chopped dill pickles, pickle juice, sugar, Worcestershire sauce, onion salt, garlic, dill, curry powder, white pepper, and bay leaves.
Increase heat to medium-high and bring to a boil.
Reduce to medium-low and simmer for 5 minutes, whisking frequently.
Remove from heat, stir in the warm milk, and discard the bay leaves.
Serve hot with fresh bread or crackers.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields 8 servings.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Add diced potatoes and carrots for a heartier version.
Stir in cooked shredded chicken for extra protein.
Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
Use sour cream or heavy cream instead of milk for extra richness.
Add a dash of hot sauce or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring frequently.
Avoid boiling when reheating, as this may cause the milk to curdle.
This soup can also be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use dill pickle spears instead of whole pickles?

Yes, just chop them finely before adding to the soup.

What type of pickles work best?

Traditional dill pickles with brine are best—avoid sweet pickles for this recipe.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes, swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and omit Worcestershire sauce or use a vegetarian version.

Does it taste very sour?

The flavor is tangy but balanced with creaminess from the milk and sweetness from the sugar.

Can I use fresh dill instead of dried?

Yes, fresh dill can be added at the end for a brighter flavor.

Can I thicken the soup more?

Add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) if you prefer a thicker consistency.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Not as written, but you can substitute cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend for the all-purpose flour.

Can I add cheese?

Yes, sharp cheddar or cream cheese melts well into the soup and adds richness.

Can I use skim milk?

You can, but whole milk or cream gives a creamier, richer texture.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, it keeps well in the fridge for several days and the flavors deepen over time.

Conclusion

Dill Pickle Soup is a surprising yet comforting dish that blends tangy, savory, and creamy flavors into one delicious bowl. It’s quick to prepare, fun to serve, and perfect for pickle enthusiasts. Whether you enjoy it as a starter or a full meal, this unique soup is bound to be a memorable addition to your recipe collection.