Cabbage soup - fasting

Cabbage Soup for Lent - A Comforting Delight

Cabbage soup is a classic recipe, loved by many and appreciated for its comforting taste and nutritional benefits. It is an excellent choice for those who want to enrich their meals with healthy dishes without adding animal-based ingredients. Moreover, this soup is easy to prepare and can quickly become a family favorite.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 60 minutes
Total time: 75 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Ingredients you will need:

- 1 sweet white cabbage (choose a soft cabbage for better taste and shorter cooking time)
- 1 red onion (flavorful and sweet)
- 2 carrots (for a sweet note and vibrant color)
- 1 parsley root (adds a delicate flavor)
- 1 celery (for depth of flavor)
- 3-4 tomatoes (fresh and juicy)
- 1 bell pepper (for an extra splash of color and texture)
- 1/2 teaspoon horseradish sauce (a surprising addition that adds a spicy taste)
- 100 ml broth (for a more intense flavor)
- salt and pepper (to taste)
- thyme (to add a warm, herbal aroma)
- fresh parsley leaves (for garnish and a fresh taste)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing and peeling all the vegetables. Cut the red onion, bell pepper, carrots, parsley, celery, and tomatoes into small cubes. The smaller the cubes, the more evenly the soup will cook.

2. Heating the oil: In a 5-liter pot, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Olive oil not only adds a delicious taste but is also a healthy choice.

3. Sautéing the onion: Add the chopped onion to the hot oil. Sauté it until it becomes golden and translucent. This is when the flavors begin to develop.

4. Adding water: Once the onion is sautéed, add a cup of water (about 250 ml) and let it simmer over medium heat for 10 minutes. This step will enhance the onion flavor and give a special taste to the soup.

5. Boiling the soup: After 10 minutes, add the remaining water (about 2.5 liters). When the water starts to boil, add the carrots, tomatoes, celery, and parsley. Let it boil over medium heat for 15 minutes.

6. Seasoning: Now, add salt, pepper, and thyme to taste. Try not to overdo it with the salt, as the soup will receive other ingredients.

7. Adding the bell pepper and cabbage: Cut the cabbage into thin strips and add it to the pot along with the chopped bell pepper. The cabbage will add a crunchy texture and a full flavor, while the bell pepper will make the soup even more colorful.

8. Horseradish sauce and broth: Finally, add the horseradish sauce and broth. This secret ingredient provides a surprising note and a unique taste to the soup. Let everything simmer over low heat for 30 minutes until all the vegetables are tender and the flavors have blended.

9. Serving: Once the soup is ready, taste and adjust the seasonings if necessary. Finally, add a few fresh parsley leaves for a beautiful look and a fresh taste.

Serving suggestions: Lent cabbage soup is perfect served warm, alongside a slice of fresh whole-grain bread or a piece of polenta. It can also be accompanied by a fresh green salad for a balanced lunch or dinner.

Nutritional benefits: Cabbage is a very healthy vegetable, rich in vitamins C and K, as well as antioxidants. It also contains fiber that aids digestion and helps maintain a healthy weight. This lent soup is not only filling but also an excellent choice for a healthy lifestyle.

Possible variations: If you want to experiment, you can add other vegetables, such as zucchini or green beans. Additionally, instead of horseradish sauce, you can use chili sauce for a spicy note. Another delicious option is to add some diced potatoes for a richer consistency.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use sauerkraut?
Yes, sauerkraut can be used to add a distinctive taste. Make sure to adjust the salt accordingly, as sauerkraut is already salty.

2. How can I store the cabbage soup?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 3-4 days. It can be frozen, but it is recommended to consume it fresh to enjoy all the flavors.

3. Is cabbage soup suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! This cabbage soup recipe is completely vegan and suitable for those following a lent or vegetarian diet.

This lent cabbage soup is not only a comforting dish but also an excellent way to enjoy fresh and healthy vegetables. Savor each spoonful and let yourself be carried away by its delicious flavors! Enjoy!