Cabbage soup

Cabbage Borscht: A Soup Full of Flavors and Tradition

Cabbage borscht is a classic recipe, full of flavor and tradition, that brings an explosion of tastes and colors to our table. This soup is popular in many cultures where cabbage is a staple ingredient, and its preparation has been passed down from generation to generation. In the following, I will guide you step by step through the process of making this delicious borscht. So, let’s get started!

Total Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
- Preparation Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 1 hour
- Servings: 6

Ingredients:
- 200 g smoked bacon
- 1 medium onion
- 2 carrots
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1/4 celery root
- 200 ml homemade borscht
- 100 g tomato paste
- 1/2 red cabbage
- 1 white cabbage
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- Salt and pepper to taste

Necessary Utensils:
- A large pot
- A sharp knife
- A wooden spoon
- A cutting board
- A grater (for carrots, optional)

Step by Step Preparation:

Step 1: Preparing the Ingredients
Start by preparing all the ingredients. Wash the vegetables well, peel them, and cut them into small cubes. The white and red cabbage should be sliced thinly. This step is essential as it ensures even cooking of the vegetables and a beautiful presentation of the soup.

Step 2: Boiling the Bacon
Put the smoked bacon in the large pot, add water, and let it boil over medium heat. As the bacon begins to boil, a foam will form on the surface. It’s important to remove this foam with a spoon to have a clear and appetizing borscht.

Step 3: Adding the Vegetables
Once the foam has been removed, add the diced onion. In a few minutes, when the onion becomes translucent, add the carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Let the vegetables boil together with the bacon for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Red Cabbage
Now it’s time to add the red cabbage. It is firmer than the white cabbage, so it will cook better if added first. Let it boil for 10-15 minutes until the red cabbage softens a bit.

Step 5: White Cabbage and Tomato Paste
After the red cabbage has boiled, add the sliced white cabbage. Mix well and let it boil together with the other vegetables for 10-15 minutes. Then, add the tomato paste and mix well. The tomato paste will add a rich flavor and vibrant color to the borscht.

Step 6: Finishing the Borscht
After all the ingredients are cooked, add the boiled borscht. Bring to a boil, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Finally, sprinkle with chopped fresh dill. Dill not only adds a fresh taste but also enhances the nutritional benefits of the soup.

Step 7: Serving
Turn off the heat and let the soup rest for a few minutes. Serve the cabbage borscht warm, alongside hot peppers or garlic cloves if you like a bit of spice. Personally, I prefer to add garlic cloves for an extra flavor.

Nutritional Benefits
Cabbage borscht is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals due to the fresh vegetables. Cabbage is rich in vitamin C, which supports the immune system, while carrots provide beta-carotene, beneficial for eye health. The smoked bacon adds a touch of flavor, but when consumed in moderation, it can fit into a balanced diet.

Possible Variations
If you want to experiment, you can add other vegetables like zucchini or green beans, or replace the bacon with chicken or turkey for a leaner version. Additionally, for a more intense flavor, you can use store-bought borscht or add lemon juice at the end.

Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use pickled cabbage?
Yes, pickled cabbage can be used instead of fresh cabbage, but you will need to adjust the amount of salt as pickled cabbage is already salty.

2. How can I store the borscht?
The borscht keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for later use. Make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in containers for freezing.

3. What kind of bread goes well with cabbage borscht?
A homemade, freshly baked bread or a crispy baguette will perfectly complement this dish. You can warm it slightly in the oven to give it a crunchy texture.

Pairing Recommendations
Cabbage borscht can be paired with a fresh green salad or a beet salad for a contrast of flavors. For a complete meal, you can also serve a yogurt drink or a fruit compote.

This cabbage borscht recipe is not just a dish, but a true culinary experience that takes you through memories and traditions. With a bit of patience and love, you will achieve a result that will impress everyone. Happy cooking!