Shiny or cabbage soup

Lucicos Recipe - Cabbage Soup

Total time: 1 hour
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Who would have thought that a soup with such an unusual name, like "lucicos," could bring back so many pleasant memories? This cabbage soup recipe was once a source of laughter and irony in our family. Back in childhood, its name made us resist. However, now we lovingly prepare this flavorful soup, reminding us of culinary traditions and the authentic tastes of autumn.

The history of cabbage soup is lost in the mists of time, being a popular dish in many cultures. Soup, in general, is a warm, comforting dish, and cabbage, with its nutritional benefits, is a staple ingredient that provides a hearty taste and a substantial supply of vitamins. In this recipe, smoked bacon adds a touch of flavor, but for those who prefer a lighter version, adjustments can be made.

Ingredients:
- 1 kg raw, lightly smoked bacon (choose one with as little bone as possible)
- 1 medium onion
- 2 carrots
- 1 bell pepper (optional, but recommended for extra flavor)
- 1 small cabbage or half of a large cabbage
- 2 tablespoons of roasted pepper paste
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 500 ml bors (or to taste)
- Fresh or dried thyme
- To serve: sour cream or full-fat yogurt

Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing all the vegetables well. Peel the onion, carrots, and bell pepper. Chop the onion finely, grate the carrots or slice them into rounds, and dice the bell pepper. Chop the cabbage as thinly as possible to cook evenly in the soup.

Step 2: Boiling the meat
In a large pot, add the bacon cut into pieces and fill with water, making sure you have enough liquid to cover the meat. Place the pot over medium heat and let the meat boil for about 20-25 minutes. If you prefer a less smoky version, you can discard the first water after the meat has boiled for a few minutes.

Step 3: Adding the vegetables
When the bacon is almost cooked, add the onion, carrots, and bell pepper. Let the vegetables boil together with the meat for about 10 minutes until they start to soften. This step is essential for creating a flavorful base for the soup.

Step 4: Cabbage and flavors
Once the vegetables are partially cooked, add the chopped cabbage. Stir gently to integrate it into the soup. After a few minutes, when the cabbage starts to soften, add the roasted pepper paste. This will add a rich flavor and an attractive color.

Step 5: Bors and spices
After all the ingredients are well mixed, add the bors and season with salt, pepper, and thyme. If using fresh thyme, you can also add a few whole leaves, which will infuse the soup with delicious aromas. Let the soup simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes for all the flavors to blend harmoniously.

Step 6: Serving
When the soup is ready, serve it in deep bowls, adding a generous spoonful of sour cream or full-fat yogurt on top. A finely chopped chili pepper can complement the dish, providing a perfect contrast to the soup's tanginess.

Practical tips:
- If you prefer a sourer soup, you can add more bors or even vinegar to taste.
- For extra flavor, you can add a few peppercorns or bay leaves during boiling.
- Instead of sour cream, you can try salty cottage cheese, which can add a creamy texture.

Nutritional benefits:
This cabbage soup is rich in vitamins and minerals due to the vegetables used. Cabbage is known for its high vitamin C content, fiber, and antioxidants, contributing to a healthy immune system. Bacon, while higher in fat, also provides essential proteins.

Possible variations:
- You can replace bacon with chicken or turkey for a lighter version.
- Add diced potatoes to make the soup heartier.
- If you want a vegetarian version, omit the meat and use vegetable broth.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use pickled cabbage?
Yes, pickled cabbage will give the soup a distinct taste, but make sure to reduce the amount of salt.

2. How can I store the soup?
The soup can be stored in airtight containers in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for later consumption.

3. What other dishes can it be paired with?
This cabbage soup pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread, polenta, or alongside a beet salad.

I conclude with a personal note: this soup has become a beloved dish for me and my family, reviving our childhood memories and bringing us together at the table. I hope it becomes a cherished seasonal recipe for you too. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 1 kg lightly smoked raw ribs (with as little bone as possible) 1 onion 2 carrots 1 bell pepper 1 small cabbage or 1/2 of a large one 2 tablespoons of pepper paste salt and pepper to taste 1/2 liter of borscht fresh or dried thyme for serving: sour cream or fatty yogurt

 Tags:  cabbage soup