Cabbage soup with smoked ribs

Smoked Rib Cabbage Soup

Smoked rib cabbage soup is a traditional dish enriched by the smoky flavors of the meat and the freshness of the vegetables, reminding us of family meals on cool days. This recipe is not only delicious but also nourishing, offering a perfect combination of taste and nutritional benefits. I will guide you step by step to achieve a perfect cabbage soup that will impress anyone who tastes it.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients
- 1 medium fresh cabbage
- 300 g smoked ribs
- 1 small celery root (or ½ large celery)
- 1 medium onion
- 2 carrots
- 1 tray of vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, zucchini)
- 3 tablespoons of vegetable seasoning (or other preferred seasoning)
- 1 tablespoon of magic borscht
- Fresh lovage (or dried)
- Pepper to taste
- 3 tablespoons of tomato paste
- 1 cup of milk
- 1 egg
- 1 bunch of dill
- Olive oil for sautéing
- Salt to taste
- Sour cream for serving (optional)

Preparation

1. Preparing the smoked ribs: Start by cutting the smoked ribs into suitable pieces. Place them in a large pot with cold water and let them boil over medium heat. Once they come to a boil, discard the water and rinse the ribs with clean water. This step helps to remove excess salt and fat, resulting in a lighter soup.

2. Preparing the cabbage: Meanwhile, wash the cabbage, remove the core, and grate it on a large grater. Place the cabbage in a large bowl, add salt, and gently massage the cabbage with your hands to "soften" it. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to release its juices.

3. The vegetables: Peel the celery, onion, and carrots. Grate the celery and onion on a small grater, and slice the carrots into rounds. These vegetables will add a sweet flavor and wonderful taste to the soup.

4. Sautéing the vegetables: In a skillet, add a little olive oil and sauté the onion and celery over low heat until they become translucent. Then, add the carrots and continue to sauté for another 3-5 minutes. This step is essential for developing flavors and intensifying the taste of the soup.

5. Cooking the soup: In the pot with the boiled ribs, add the grated cabbage and all the sautéed vegetables. Fill the pot with water so that all the ingredients are covered. Add 3 tablespoons of vegetable seasoning, chopped lovage, and pepper. Let everything simmer over medium heat for about 30 minutes.

6. Adding the final ingredients: Once the vegetables are cooked, add the tomato paste and milk to the soup. These ingredients will give the soup a vibrant color and delicate creaminess. Start beating the egg in a bowl and gradually add it to the soup, stirring constantly to form delicate strands.

7. Final touches: Finally, add the chopped dill and let the soup simmer for another 5 minutes. Taste and adjust the salt and pepper if necessary. Your smoked rib cabbage soup is now ready to be served!

Serving

Cabbage soup is served warm, topped with a spoonful of sour cream for added creaminess. You can also add a few fresh lovage leaves for an attractive presentation. A slice of fresh bread or polenta on the side will make this meal a truly comforting experience.

Helpful Tips

- Variations: You can experiment with various vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, to add more color and nutrients. You can also replace the smoked ribs with pork or chicken, depending on your preferences.
- Calories and nutritional benefits: A serving of cabbage soup contains approximately 300-350 calories, making it a healthy and nourishing choice, rich in vitamins and minerals. Cabbage is an excellent source of vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, contributing to healthy digestion and strengthening the immune system.
- Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use pickled cabbage? Yes, if you want a more sour soup, pickled cabbage is a wonderful option! Adjust the amount of salt accordingly.
- How can I store the soup? The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and the flavor will improve as the ingredients meld together. You can freeze the soup, but it is recommended to do so without sour cream to avoid changing the texture.

Preparing this smoked rib cabbage soup will become a true pleasure, and each bite will bring a touch of warmth to your soul. Share this recipe with your loved ones and enjoy the moments spent together at the table!

 Ingredients: 1 medium cabbage, 1 tray of vegetables, smoked ribs, lovage, vegetable seasoning, pepper, 1 tablespoon of magic borscht with sour cream, 1 egg, 3 tablespoons of broth, 1 cup of milk, 1 bunch of dill

 Tags:  cabbage soup