Cabbage Soup

Cabbage soup is a traditional recipe, full of flavor and vitality, that brings together fresh ingredients and authentic aromas. This soup is not only delicious but also a healthy choice, being rich in vitamins and minerals. Additionally, cabbage soup is a versatile dish that can be adapted according to the season or personal preferences.

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients

- 3 medium carrots
- 1 large onion
- 1 sweet pepper (preferably red or yellow)
- 2 ripe tomatoes
- 1 celery stalk
- 200 g finely chopped cabbage
- 1 tablespoon vegeta (or to taste)
- Salt, to taste
- Juice from 1-2 lemons (or to taste)
- 2 tablespoons sunflower oil or olive oil
- 1.5 l water
- A few chopped celery leaves for garnish

Preparation

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing all the vegetables well. Cut the carrots, onion, and pepper into small cubes. Even cutting ensures even cooking and a pleasant appearance of the soup. Grate the carrots to integrate them better into the soup. Finely chop the cabbage, and the tomatoes can be diced after peeling them (for a finer texture).

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, add the oil and let it heat over medium heat. When the oil is hot, add the onion, carrots, and garlic (if you want an extra flavor). Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent and the carrots begin to soften. This step brings the flavors of the vegetables to life and contributes to the complexity of the soup's taste.

3. Adding the vegetables: After the vegetables have sautéed, add the pepper, cabbage, and tomatoes to the pot. Mix well so that all the ingredients combine harmoniously. This vibrant mix of colors will make the soup not only tasty but also appealing.

4. Boiling the soup: Pour hot water over the vegetables, add vegeta and salt to taste. Partially cover the pot to allow steam to escape, but without completely blocking evaporation. Let the soup boil for about 40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The longer it boils, the more the flavors will intensify.

5. Finishing: About 5 minutes before turning off the heat, add the chopped celery leaves. These will add a touch of freshness to the soup. After turning off the heat, gradually add the lemon juice, tasting after each addition to adjust the acidity to your liking.

6. Serving: When serving, you can add a spoonful of sour cream on top for a delicate creaminess that will balance the soup's acidity. Additionally, a slice of fresh bread or croutons can perfectly complement the meal. Cabbage soup is even more delicious the next day when the flavors have had time to meld.

Practical tips

- For a more intense flavor: You can add some spices, such as sweet paprika or black pepper, which will provide extra depth to the soup.
- Vegetarian options: If you want a vegan version, simply omit the sour cream and ensure you use vegeta without animal-derived ingredients.
- Cabbage soup and health: This soup is a wonderful choice for a healthy diet, being low in calories, rich in fiber, vitamins C and K, as well as antioxidants. It is perfect for detoxification.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use sauerkraut?
Yes! If you want a saltier and tangier version, you can use sauerkraut. In this case, adjust the amount of salt added.

2. How long can the soup be stored?
Cabbage soup can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or can be frozen for later consumption.

3. What other vegetables can be added?
You can experiment with vegetables like potatoes, zucchini, or even green peas for a different texture and flavor.

Delicious combinations

Cabbage soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of fresh bread, but also with warm polenta. Additionally, a refreshing drink, such as herbal tea or lemonade, can perfectly complement the meal.

In conclusion, cabbage soup is more than just a simple soup; it is an expression of culinary traditions and a love for good food. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or for a family dinner, remember that every bite is an invitation to a delicious story. So, let's get cooking and enjoy the flavors and colors of this classic recipe!

 Ingredients: -3 carrots-1 onion-1 sweet pepper-2 tomatoes-1 celery stalk-200 g cabbage-vegetable seasoning-salt-lemon juice-about 2 tablespoons of oil-1.5 l water-a few celery leaves (chopped)