Sweet cabbage soup with smoked ham hock

Sweet Cabbage Soup with Smoked Ham Hock - A Comforting Delicacy

Total time: 2 hours
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8

Sweet cabbage soup with smoked ham hock is a dish that combines culinary tradition with a unique flavor. This recipe has its origins in rural cuisine, where fresh ingredients and simple cooking techniques were used to create nourishing and comforting meals. The rich flavors and texture of the smoked meat make this soup an excellent choice for chilly days or moments when you need a touch of warmth and comfort.

Ingredients:

- 0.8-1 kg smoked ham hock
- 500 g sweet cabbage
- 1 large onion
- 1 potato
- 1 carrot
- 1 parsnip
- 1/2 zucchini
- 1 red bell pepper
- 3-4 tomatoes
- A few sprigs of parsley
- 1 bunch of fresh lovage
- 50 g ketchup and red peppers
- 30 ml oil
- 1.5 liters borscht (or 1 packet of concentrated magic borscht)
- 2 cubes/teaspoons concentrated smoked bacon/mushrooms
- 2 teaspoons sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation:

1. Preparing the smoked ham hock:
Start by washing the smoked ham hock well under cold running water. Then, place it in a large pot with 3 liters of cold water and add a little salt. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover the pot with a lid. Let the ham hock simmer on low heat for 50-60 minutes. This process will help extract the flavors from the meat and make the soup tastier.

2. Preparing the vegetables:
While the ham hock is boiling, peel and dice the carrot, parsnip, bell pepper, and zucchini into small cubes. Cut the potato into larger pieces to hold up well during cooking, and peel and slice the tomatoes. Chop the sweet cabbage and onion finely. Make sure all the ingredients are prepared before moving on to the next step.

3. Sautéing the vegetables:
In a larger pot, add 30 ml of oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the diced carrot and parsnip, sautéing them for 3-4 minutes until they become slightly translucent. Continue with the red bell pepper and onion, stirring constantly. When the onion becomes soft, add the cabbage and zucchini. After a few minutes, add the potato and tomatoes.

4. Adding the liquid:
After the vegetables have softened, add the vegetable concentrate, a little parsley, and chopped fresh lovage, sugar, ketchup, and 2 liters of water. Let everything simmer covered on low heat for 30 minutes. If you prefer a more sour soup, you can add a little borscht earlier.

5. Finalizing the soup:
In another pot, bring the borscht to a boil. Once the ham hock is cooked and tender, remove it to a platter, remove the bones, and portion the meat. Add the juice from the ham hock to the soup, adjusting the amount to taste. Let the soup simmer for another 20 minutes, then season with salt and pepper.

6. Serving:
In the soup tureen, add the hot soup, then add pieces of meat from the ham hock. Garnish with fresh lovage leaves. If desired, each serving can be topped with sour cream, and you can add vinegar directly to the plate for a sour note. The soup is delicious served alongside hot chili peppers, which will enhance the flavors.

Practical Tips:

- Choosing the ham hock: Opt for a quality smoked ham hock that will add a rich flavor to the soup. You can also use fresh pork if you prefer a lighter version.

- Vegetables: Use fresh, seasonal vegetables to achieve the best flavors. You can also add other vegetables like celery or peas to diversify the recipe.

- Borscht: If you prefer a sourer soup, feel free to add more borscht. If using concentrated borscht, follow the instructions on the packaging.

- Variations: You can experiment with different types of smoked meat or add a handful of green beans for extra texture.

Nutritional Benefits:
Sweet cabbage soup with smoked ham hock is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, thanks to the fresh vegetables. Cabbage is rich in fiber and antioxidants, while the ham hock provides protein and a significant amount of iron. This soup will not only satisfy your hunger but also help you maintain your energy throughout the day.

Frequently Asked Questions:
1. Can it be frozen? Yes, the soup can be frozen, but it is recommended not to add sour cream or borscht before freezing. Add these ingredients after thawing.

2. How can I make the soup spicier? Add sliced chili peppers or chili sauce for an extra kick.

3. What other recipes can it be paired with? Sweet cabbage soup with smoked ham hock pairs perfectly with warm polenta or fresh homemade bread to complete the meal.

I invite you to try this delicious and comforting recipe! With each spoonful, you will feel how tradition and goodness intertwine into an unforgettable culinary experience. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 0.8-1 kg smoked ham hock, 500 g sweet cabbage, 1 onion, 1 potato, 1 carrot, 1 parsnip, 1/2 zucchini, 1 red bell pepper, 3-4 tomatoes, a few sprigs of parsley, 1 bunch of lovage, 50 g ketchup, 30 ml oil, 1.5 liters of borscht (or 1 packet of concentrated magic borscht), 2 cubes/teaspoons of concentrated smoked bacon/mushrooms, 2 teaspoons of salt, pepper.