Cabbage cream soup

Creamy cabbage soup with crispy croutons – A hidden delight for picky eaters

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total: 45 minutes
Servings: 4

Who said vegetables can't be delicious? This creamy cabbage soup is living proof that you can transform healthy ingredients into tasty dishes, even for the pickiest among us. It’s a simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the flavors of fresh vegetables with a creamy texture, perfect for enjoying with crispy croutons. Plus, cabbage brings a wealth of nutritional benefits, being rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants.

The history of creamy cabbage soup is steeped in tradition, with deep roots in the cuisines of many cultures, where it has always been a popular choice due to the accessibility of ingredients and ease of preparation. Whether you enjoy it as a main meal or a comforting appetizer, creamy cabbage soup is versatile and can be adapted to your preferences.

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 medium carrot
- 1 large onion
- 1 large potato
- 1 small cabbage (approximately 300-400 g)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cube of butter (optional, for creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon sour cream (for serving)
- Dill powder (for garnish)
- Natural vegetable seasoning (or other preferred spices)
- 2 liters of water

Step by step: Preparing the creamy cabbage soup

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling and chopping the onion, carrot, and potato. The onion will be finely chopped, the carrot sliced into rounds, and the potato diced. The cabbage will be cut into thin strips to cook evenly. This step is essential to ensure a pleasant final texture.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, add the tablespoon of olive oil and heat over medium heat. Add the onion and carrot, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until they become translucent. This process helps release the flavors and creates a delicious base for the soup.

3. Adding the potato: Add the diced potato and mix well. Let it sauté together with the onion and carrot for another 2-3 minutes. The potato will provide a richer consistency to the soup.

4. Seasoning: Sprinkle salt, pepper, and natural vegetable seasoning over the vegetables, mixing to ensure even distribution of the spices. This step will enhance the flavors and prepare the vegetables for boiling.

5. Boiling the vegetables: Pour water into the pot, enough to cover all the vegetables (approximately 2 liters). Let the soup boil over medium heat, covering the pot with a lid. Once it starts to boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

6. Adding the cabbage: Add the strips of cabbage to the pot and let it boil for another 10-15 minutes until the cabbage is well cooked. Cabbage is nutrient-rich, and this step will ensure it retains all its properties.

7. Blending the soup: Once all the vegetables are cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it cool slightly. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to turn the vegetables into a fine puree. Add the cube of butter for a creamy texture and rich flavor. Blend until the soup is smooth and silky.

8. Serving: Pour the soup into bowls and add a tablespoon of sour cream to each serving. Sprinkle dill powder on top for added flavor and an appealing look. Don't forget the crispy croutons, which will add a nice texture and pleasant contrast!

Practical tips for a perfect result:
- You can vary the proportions of the vegetables according to your preferences. For example, you can add celery or zucchini to diversify the flavors.
- If you want a spicier soup, you can add a crushed garlic clove or chili flakes while sautéing the onion.
- Make sure the blenders are clean, as vegetable remnants can get stuck and affect the soup's texture.
- If you prefer a less smooth texture, you can leave some vegetables unblended in the soup for a rustic look.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This creamy cabbage soup is not only delicious but also healthy! One serving contains about 150-180 calories, depending on the amount of sour cream and butter used. Cabbage is rich in vitamin C, which supports the immune system, and in fiber, which aids digestion. Additionally, the carrot brings beta-carotene, essential for eye health.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use frozen cabbage?
Yes, you can use frozen cabbage, but make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the soup.

2. How can I make the soup lower in calories?
To reduce calories, you can omit the butter and sour cream or use light alternatives.

3. What can I use instead of croutons?
For a healthier option, you can add roasted seeds (pumpkin or sunflower) for an extra crunch.

This creamy cabbage soup is perfect for chilly days or when you need a comforting and healthy dish. Make it with your loved ones and discover that vegetables can indeed be the stars of the meal! Enjoy!

 Ingredients: We need: 1 carrot, 1 onion, 1 potato, 1 small cabbage, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, salt, pepper, 1 cube of butter, 1 tablespoon of sour cream, dill powder, natural vegetable seasoning, 2 liters of water.

 Tags:  cabbage cream soup