Cabbage soup with broth

Cabbage Soup with Broth - A Warm and Comforting Treat

Cabbage soup with broth is a traditional dish, full of flavor and aromas, that reminds us of hearty meals from childhood, alongside loved ones. This simple yet flavorful recipe is easy to prepare and represents a perfect example of comfort food. Whether it's a chilly autumn day or a winter evening, a bowl of warm soup will always bring a smile to the faces of those who enjoy it.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4-6

Ingredients:
- 1 fresh cabbage (approximately 1 kg)
- 1 large carrot
- 1 parsley root
- 1 leek (white part)
- 1 large onion
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- 500 ml homemade broth (or store-bought)
- 1-2 hot peppers (optional, to taste)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Oil (for sautéing)

Step by step:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by cleaning the vegetables. Cut the carrot, parsley root, and leek into small cubes, while the cabbage should be sliced into thin strips or shredded. The onion can be left whole to preserve its unmistakable aroma, and we will remove it from the soup at the end. Remove the seeds from the hot pepper and chop it finely.

2. Sautéing the vegetables: In a large pot, add 2-3 tablespoons of oil and heat over medium heat. Add the carrot, parsley root, and leek. Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently, to develop their aroma.

3. Adding water and cabbage: Once the vegetables have softened slightly, add enough water to cover them. Typically, 2-3 liters are sufficient, but you can adjust the amount based on how thick you want the soup. Then, add the whole onion and the sliced cabbage.

4. Seasoning: Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste, along with thicker cuts of fresh dill (this will give the soup an intense flavor). Let the soup simmer over medium heat for about 20 minutes, or until the cabbage becomes tender.

5. Adding the broth: Once the vegetables are cooked, add the homemade broth to give the soup a vibrant color and rich flavor. Let it simmer for another 10-15 minutes, so all the flavors blend perfectly.

6. Finalizing: At the end, add the hot pepper if you choose to use it, and let the soup cook for a few more minutes. Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh dill for an extra touch of freshness.

Serving:
Cabbage soup with broth is served hot, ideally alongside vinegar or lemon, which adds a touch of acidity. You can also offer hot peppers at the table for those who prefer a spicier taste.

Serving suggestions:
For an extra flavor boost, serve the soup with a slice of fresh bread or warm polenta. Additionally, fresh sour cream on the side will work wonders, providing a creamy texture and pleasant taste.

Useful tips:
- If you want a heartier soup, you can add some pieces of meat (for example, pork or chicken), which will cook together with the vegetables.
- Homemade broth can be replaced with store-bought tomato juice, but the taste will be different. Choose a quality broth for the best results.
- The soup can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days and can be frozen, but it is recommended to add fresh broth before consuming.

Nutritional benefits:
Cabbage soup is a healthy choice, rich in vitamins and minerals. Cabbage is an excellent source of vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, while carrots provide a significant amount of beta-carotene. This dish is filling but low in calories, making it ideal for a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use pickled cabbage?
- Yes, you can use pickled cabbage, but it will change the soup's flavor, giving it a distinct acidity.

2. How can I make the soup spicier?
- Add more hot peppers or use hot sauces to intensify the flavor.

3. How can I enhance the soup's aroma?
- Use fresh herbs like thyme or basil, which pair perfectly with the soup's flavors.

4. Is cabbage soup suitable for vegans?
- Yes, omit the oil and meat broth, and the soup will be suitable for a vegan diet.

This cabbage soup with broth recipe is not only a delicious dish but also a symbol of kindness and unity, perfect for enjoying with loved ones. So take your time to savor each step of preparing this comforting soup. Enjoy your meal!