Cabbage soup with pork meat

Cabbage Soup with Pork - A Recipe of Flavor and Tradition

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Cabbage soup with pork is a classic dish, beloved in many households. The rich aroma of the ingredients and the comforting taste make this soup a perfect choice for cool days. Cabbage soup has been prepared for generations, with deep roots in culinary tradition, where each family adds a personal touch to the recipe.

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 small cabbage
- 300 g lean pork (preferably thigh or shoulder)
- 1 carrot
- 2 potatoes
- 1 parsnip
- A small root of celery
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red for added color)
- 1 onion
- 500 ml tomato juice (fresh or canned, but without additives)
- Salt (to taste)
- 1 teaspoon lemon salt
- 1 sprig of fresh thyme
- 3-4 tablespoons sunflower or olive oil

Step by step - Preparing the cabbage soup:

1. Preparing the cabbage: Start by slicing the cabbage into thin strips. This is an essential step, as properly sliced cabbage will cook evenly. Rub the cabbage with salt and lemon salt, then add the oil. This method helps to soften the cabbage and release the flavors, making the soup tastier. Let the cabbage sit for 15 minutes.

2. Preparing the meat: Cut the pork into cubes of about 2-3 cm. Place the meat in a pot with cold water and bring to a boil. As the water starts to boil, skim the broth to remove impurities. This step is crucial for obtaining a clear and tasty soup.

3. Adding the vegetables: Peel and wash the carrot, potatoes, parsnip, celery, bell pepper, and onion. Cut all the vegetables into equal-sized cubes to ensure even cooking. Once the meat is skimmed, add the chopped vegetables to the pot. Let them boil together for 10-15 minutes.

4. Including the cabbage: After the vegetables have started to soften, add the prepared cabbage. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Let it boil for another 5-10 minutes.

5. Adding the tomato juice: Pour the tomato juice into the pot and stir. The tomato juice will add acidity and a pleasant color to the soup. Let the soup boil for about 20-30 minutes, until all the ingredients are cooked and the flavors have combined.

6. Finalizing the soup: At the end, adjust the salt to taste and add the sprig of thyme. Turn off the heat and let the soup rest for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to intensify. Before serving, remove the sprig of thyme.

Useful tips:
- If you prefer a spicier soup, you can add a little chili pepper at the end.
- The soup can be served with sour cream and freshly chopped dill for added flavor.
- A delicious variation is to add some peppercorns or even a splash of balsamic vinegar for an interesting contrast of flavors.

Nutritional benefits:
This soup is rich in vegetables, providing a good source of vitamins and minerals. Cabbage is known for its antioxidant properties, while pork provides quality proteins. This recipe is ideal for a hearty and nourishing lunch.

Frequently asked questions:
- How long can cabbage soup be stored? The soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days. It can be reheated, but is better the next day when the flavors have intensified.
- Can I use other meats? Of course! If you prefer, you can use chicken or beef, but the cooking time will vary.
- Can I make the soup vegetarian? Absolutely! You can omit the meat and use additional vegetables like zucchini or mushrooms, and a vegetable broth for a rich flavor.

Serving suggestions:
This cabbage soup with pork pairs perfectly with a slice of fresh bread, but also with warm polenta. A cold beer or a dry white wine can perfectly complement the meal, bringing an extra touch of flavor.

Cabbage soup with pork is not just a delicious recipe but also a journey back in time, wrapped in traditions and joyful moments with loved ones. So, embrace this classic recipe and savor every spoonful!