Vegetable soup with cabbage juice

Vegetable soup with cabbage juice

Vegetable soup with cabbage juice is a traditional recipe, full of flavors and nutrients, that brings a touch of comfort to every bowl. This soup not only satisfies your taste buds, but is also a healthy choice, perfect for days when you want to feel light and energetic. Whether you prepare it during fasting days or simply as a light meal for the whole family, vegetable soup is always an inspired choice.

Preparation time
- Preparation: 20 minutes
- Boiling: 30 minutes
- Total: 50 minutes
- Servings: 4-6

Ingredients
- Fresh vegetables (as varied as possible, depending on preferences):
- Onion (1-2 pieces, depending on size)
- Carrot (1-2 pieces)
- Celery (1 small root)
- Parsnip (1 root)
- Potatoes (2-3 pieces)
- Red peppers (1-2 pieces)
- Tomatoes (2-3 fresh or 400g canned tomatoes)
- Cabbage juice (about 500 ml, adjust to taste)
- Noodles (100 g, or more, depending on preferences)
- Fresh lovage (a small bunch)
- Pepper (optional, to taste)
- Olive oil (1-2 tablespoons, for sautéing)

Step-by-step instructions

1. Preparing the vegetables: Start by peeling and chopping the vegetables. I prefer to cut them into cubes, but you can choose any shape you like. The onion and carrot should be finely chopped so that they sauté quickly and release their flavors. The celery root, parsnip, and potatoes can be cut into larger cubes as they will boil longer.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, add the olive oil and sauté the onion and carrot over medium heat until they become translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This step will intensify the flavor of the soup.

3. Adding the vegetables: Add the celery, parsnip, and potatoes to the pot and mix well. Let them sauté together for another 5 minutes, then add the red pepper and tomatoes. If you are using canned tomatoes, you can skip this step and add them directly with their juice.

4. Boiling the soup: Pour enough water (about 1.5 liters) into the pot to cover the vegetables. Allow to boil over medium heat for 10-15 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

5. Adding the cabbage juice: Start adding the cabbage juice gradually, tasting along the way. It is important not to add salt, as the cabbage juice is already salty. Adjust the amount of cabbage juice according to your preferences for a more sour or less pronounced taste.

6. Noodles: Once the vegetables are nearly cooked, add the noodles. Allow to boil according to the instructions on the package (about 5-7 minutes), stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

7. Finalizing the soup: When the noodles are cooked, turn off the heat and add the finely chopped lovage. You can keep a few leaves for decoration. This ingredient will give a fresh smell and a special flavor to your soup.

8. Serving: Serve the soup hot, adding chopped green onions or red onions on top for an extra touch of freshness. It is delicious alongside a slice of fresh bread or warm polenta.

Useful tips
- Vegetable varieties: Don't limit yourself to the mentioned vegetables. You can experiment with zucchini, green beans, or even fresh peas, depending on the season and your preferences.
- Oil: If you want a lighter version, you can omit the olive oil and add the vegetables directly to the water.
- Freezing: The soup freezes well, so you can make a larger batch and divide it into portions. Ideal for days when you don't have time to cook.
- Variations: You can transform this soup into a heartier version by adding cooked meat (chicken or beef) or some lentils for an extra protein boost.

Nutritional benefits
Vegetable soup with cabbage juice is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, thanks to the variety of ingredients used. The vegetables are rich in fiber, which aids digestion, and the cabbage juice contains probiotics that support gut health. This recipe is also low in calories, making it an ideal choice for a light meal.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use frozen vegetables? Yes, frozen vegetables are a convenient alternative. Make sure to let them thaw before adding them to the soup.
2. How can I make the soup spicier? You can add a little chili pepper or spices like paprika or cayenne pepper.
3. Can I add meat to this soup? Sure! You can add cooked chicken or even some bacon cubes for a richer flavor.

This vegetable soup with cabbage juice is not only a healthy and comforting meal, but also an opportunity to enjoy quality time in the kitchen. Once you learn to prepare it, you'll want to include it in your culinary routine! Savor every bowl and enjoy the warmth and comfort it offers!