Prepare the vegetables: Core and slice the cabbage, peel and slice the carrots, tip and snap the green beans, peel and cube the potato.

Combine vegetables, broth, and seasonings in a large pot: Place the cabbage, carrots, green beans, potatoes, fresh peas (if using), beef broth, salt, pepper, and nutmeg in a large heavy kettle (pot).

Bring to a boil, then simmer: Set over moderate heat and bring to a boil. Adjust the heat so the broth bubbles gently, cover, and cook without stirring for 20 minutes.

Add sausage, caraway seeds, marjoram and frozen peas: Add the caraway seeds, marjoram, kielbasa, and frozen peas (if using), and toss lightly to mix. Re-cover and simmer 10 minutes.

Garnish and serve: Add the parsley, toss lightly, and serve in soup plates with crusty chunks of bread.