Cabbage soup with meat
Cabbage soup with meat is a comforting and flavorful dish, perfect for chilly days. This simple and delicious recipe combines the savory taste of meat with the freshness of cabbage, resulting in a nourishing soup that will warm your soul. Additionally, it is an excellent choice for a family meal or to be enjoyed with friends.
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Total time: 1 hour and 40 minutes
Number of servings: 6
Necessary ingredients:
- 1 small sweet cabbage
- 400 g pork (cut into cubes)
- 1 onion
- 1 apple
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 lemon
- 3 tablespoons oil
- 4 liters of water
- a handful of chopped parsley
- pepper (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable seasoning
- 2 bay leaves
- 5 peppercorns
Brief history:
Cabbage soup has deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures, being a dish appreciated for its simplicity and versatility. Cabbage, a staple ingredient, has been used for centuries due to its high nutritional value and ability to be stored for long periods. This soup is often associated with the comfort of home and family meals, making it a popular choice especially in the cold season.
Step by step for a perfect soup:
1. Preparing the meat:
Start by placing the pork in a large pot, adding 4 liters of water. Bring it to a boil and remember to remove the foam that forms on the surface. This step is essential for obtaining a clear and tasty broth.
2. Basic flavors:
After cleaning the meat from the foam, add the bay leaves and peppercorns. These spices will add a deep aromatic flavor to your soup. Let it boil well for about an hour, until the meat becomes tender and flavorful.
3. Onion and apple:
Meanwhile, finely chop the onion and apple. In a separate pan, heat the oil and add the chopped onion and apple. Cook them over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the onion turns golden and the apple softens. Avoid burning them, as the bitter taste is not desired in the soup.
4. Preparing the cabbage:
In a large pot, put water with a pinch of salt and wait for it to boil. Add the cabbage cut into large cubes. Cover the pot and let the cabbage boil for 2 minutes. Then, drain the cabbage to remove excess salt and bitterness.
5. Combining the ingredients:
Once the meat has boiled, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly. Strain the soup, keeping only the liquid. Add the tomato paste, drained cabbage, cubed meat, lemon juice, and season with pepper and vegetable seasoning. Mix all the ingredients well and let it simmer on low heat for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.
6. Finishing the soup:
After 20 minutes, remove the pot from the heat and add the chopped parsley. This will not only add a touch of freshness but will also enhance the appearance of the soup.
Useful tips:
- Cabbage: Choose a fresh, sweet cabbage, free of spots or wilted leaves. Red cabbage can be an interesting alternative, bringing a vibrant hue.
- Meat: If you prefer, you can use beef or chicken, but pork is favored for its rich flavor.
- Spices: You can experiment with other spices, such as cumin or sweet paprika, to further customize the soup.
- Serving: Cabbage soup pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread or a spoonful of sour cream for added creaminess.
Nutritional benefits:
This soup is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, thanks to the cabbage and vegetables. Cabbage is rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, helping to strengthen the immune system. Pork provides essential proteins, while the apple adds a touch of sweetness and fiber.
Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use sauerkraut?
Yes, you can use sauerkraut, but in this case, adjust the amount of salt to avoid the soup being too salty.
- How can I store the soup?
The soup stores well in the fridge, in an airtight container, for up to 3 days. It can be frozen for a longer duration.
- What can I do with leftovers?
Leftover soup can be used as a base for sauces or transformed into a delicious risotto.
This cabbage soup with meat is not just a dish, but a warm embrace on a plate. We invite you to prepare it and enjoy every spoonful! I look forward to hearing how it turned out!
Ingredients: 1 small sweet cabbage, 400 g pork (cut into cubes), 1 onion, 1 apple, 3 tablespoons broth, 1 lemon, 3 tablespoons oil, 4 liters of water, chopped parsley (a good handful), pepper, 1 tablespoon vegetable seasoning, 2 bay leaves, 5 peppercorns.
