Fresh horsehair soup

Fresh Cabbage Soup – a Transylvanian Delicacy

When we think of traditional soups, our minds drift to rich aromas, simple ingredients, and, above all, the comfort they bring on chilly days. Today, I invite you on a culinary journey through the recipe of fresh cabbage soup, an excellent choice to warm your soul and enrich your meals. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with vitamins and minerals, providing significant nutritional value.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes
Servings: 6

A brief story about cabbage
Cabbage, also known as ‘varză,’ is a vegetable that has been appreciated over time for its nutritional value. Whether consumed raw in salads or cooked, cabbage retains its beneficial properties. This soup is an excellent way to use this vegetable, transforming it into a comforting and flavorful dish.

Necessary ingredients:
- 1/2 fresh cabbage (approximately 300-400 g)
- 2 medium red potatoes
- 2 large carrots
- 1 parsley root
- 1 bell pepper (red or green, according to preference)
- 2 tablespoons of rice (preferably short-grain)
- 2 medium onions
- 2 tablespoons of oil (sunflower or olive oil)
- 1 tablespoon of white flour
- 200 ml sour cream (for cooking or fresh, according to preference)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley and dill, for garnish
- 1 cup of broth (or tomato juice)
- Optional: a little vinegar for a tangy taste
- Optional: hot pepper for those who love spice

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the ingredients
Start by peeling and washing all the vegetables. Cut the potatoes and parsley root into cubes of about 1 cm. The carrots can be sliced into rounds or cubes, depending on preference. The cabbage is finely chopped, and the bell pepper is cut into small cubes.

2. Boiling the vegetables
In a large pot, add 3.5 liters of water and bring it to a boil. When the water starts to boil, add the carrots, parsley, and diced potatoes. Let them boil for 5-10 minutes.

3. Adding cabbage and rice
After the vegetables have begun to soften, add the finely chopped cabbage and bell pepper. At this point, also add the 2 tablespoons of washed and drained rice. Let everything boil over medium heat until the rice and vegetables are cooked, about 15 minutes.

4. Preparing the roux
In a separate pan, heat the 2 tablespoons of oil. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté it lightly until it becomes translucent. Then add the flour and stir continuously, browning the roux for a few minutes. Gradually pour in 1 cup of broth, stirring constantly to avoid lumps.

5. Combining the ingredients
Once the roux is well blended, add it to the pot with the vegetables. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup boil for one minute, then turn off the heat.

6. Finalizing the soup
In a small bowl, mix the sour cream with 2 tablespoons of cold water until smooth. Pour this mixture over the soup and stir gently. This will add a pleasant creaminess to the dish.

7. Serving
Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley and dill on top. If you desire a tangy note, add a little vinegar. The fresh cabbage soup is delicious served with hot peppers on the side, perfect for those who prefer a bit of spice.

Practical tips:
- If you're in a hurry, you can use frozen vegetables, but the flavors will be more intense with fresh vegetables.
- You can replace the sour cream with Greek yogurt for a lighter and healthier option.
- This soup can be enjoyed warm or cold, and the flavors become even more intense the next day.

Nutritional values:
This soup is rich in vitamins A and C, minerals such as potassium and calcium, and contains fiber that aids digestion. Each serving has approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the amount of sour cream used.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I add meat to the soup?
Absolutely! You can add chicken or pork at the beginning of the preparation, boiling it together with the vegetables.

2. Can the soup be frozen?
Yes, the fresh cabbage soup can be frozen. Make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in airtight containers.

3. What are the best side dishes?
The soup pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread or polenta, but you can also try croutons for added texture.

Serving suggestions:
This soup goes excellently with a fresh seasonal salad, a glass of white wine, or even a craft beer.

In conclusion, fresh cabbage soup is an excellent choice for a healthy, nourishing, and comforting meal. With simple ingredients and an easy-to-follow recipe, you can't go wrong! So, put on your apron and start your culinary adventure!

 Ingredients: 1/2 fresh cabbage, 2 red potatoes, 2 carrots, 1 parsley root, 1 bell pepper, 2 tablespoons of rice, 2 onions, 2 tablespoons of oil, 1 tablespoon of white flour, 200 ml of sour cream, salt, pepper, fresh parsley and dill, 1 cup of broth.