Cabbage soup

Cabbage soup with smoked ribs – a comforting delight

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Cabbage soup is a traditional dish, full of flavors and taste, perfectly combining simple yet characterful ingredients. This recipe for cabbage soup with smoked ribs will not only delight your taste buds but also warm you on cooler days. It is a dish that has been passed down through generations, having the power to bring the family together around the table.

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 medium cabbage (approximately 1 kg)
- 500 g smoked ribs
- 1 large onion
- 2 carrots
- 1 parsnip
- 1/2 celery
- 2 tomatoes or 200 g tomato paste
- 2 bell peppers (preferably one green and one red)
- 1 bunch of fresh thyme
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- Salt and pepper to taste

Step by step to a perfect soup:

1. Preparing the smoked ribs: Start by washing the smoked ribs well under cold running water. This step is important as it removes any impurities or excess salt. Then, place them in a large pot with cold water and bring to a boil.

2. Initial boiling: Once the water has started to boil, discard the water and add clean water again. This will help achieve a clearer soup, free from impurities. Let the ribs boil for about 20 minutes.

3. Adding the vegetables: At this point, it’s time to add the vegetables. Chop the onion finely and put it in the pot. The carrots, parsnip, and celery should also be finely chopped so that the flavors are released quickly. Let everything boil together for 10-15 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.

4. Adding the peppers and tomatoes: Dice the bell peppers and add them to the pot, along with the finely chopped tomatoes. If you choose to use tomato paste, add it now. This ingredient will give the soup a vibrant color and rich flavor.

5. Cabbage and seasoning: When the vegetables are almost cooked, add the finely shredded cabbage, which you can rub with a little salt beforehand to soften it. Also, add the thyme, which will add a special aromatic note. It is important not to let the cabbage boil too long if you prefer a crunchier texture.

6. Finalizing the soup: Taste the soup and add salt and pepper to preference. Finally, add the chopped dill for an extra touch of freshness.

7. Serving: Serve the soup hot, alongside hot peppers for a spicy kick. A slice of homemade bread or polenta pairs perfectly with this dish.

Useful tips:

- Variations: You can experiment with different types of smoked meat, such as pork knuckle or smoked sausages, which will provide a distinct flavor. You can also add other vegetables, such as zucchini or potatoes, to diversify the recipe.
- Storing the soup: Cabbage soup keeps very well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. The flavor intensifies as it sits, making it even more delicious.
- Nutritional benefits: Cabbage is a vegetable rich in vitamins and minerals, high in vitamin C and fiber. The smoked ribs add protein and a hint of flavor, while the vegetables contribute to a balanced nutrient intake.

Frequently asked questions:

- Can I use pickled cabbage? Yes, you can use pickled cabbage for a tangier flavor. In this case, adjust the amount of salt.
- How can I make the soup spicier? Add fresh chili peppers or chili flakes during preparation for a more intense flavor.
- Is cabbage soup suitable for vegans? You can adapt the recipe by using vegetables and vegetable broth, omitting the smoked ribs.

Cabbage soup with smoked ribs is undoubtedly a dish that combines tradition with flavor, making it an excellent choice for any meal. Don’t forget to enjoy every bite and share this delicious recipe with your loved ones!