Cabbage soup with smoked meat

Cabbage soup with smoked meat – A warm hug on a plate

Cabbage soup with smoked meat is a traditional dish that reminds us of family Sunday meals. This savory recipe not only combines the intense flavors of cabbage and smoked meat but also offers a comforting warmth on chilly days. Whether you enjoy it with loved ones or prepare it for a weekend meal, this soup will quickly become everyone's favorite.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 medium cabbage (approximately 1.5 kg)
- 400 g smoked meat (smoked knuckle or pork bones)
- 1 bunch of fresh dill (or 1-2 tablespoons of dried dill)
- 1-2 tablespoons of dried thyme
- 1 large onion
- 3-4 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 2-3 tablespoons of flour
- 200 ml of tomato puree
- Salt, to taste
- Sour cream, for serving

Useful tips about ingredients:

Choose a fresh cabbage with shiny, firm leaves. A well-fermented cabbage will give a special flavor and texture to the soup. The smoked meats can vary according to preference; the smoked knuckle will provide a richer flavor, while the smoked bones will enrich the soup with a deep taste. Also, feel free to experiment with fresh herbs! Dill is a classic ingredient, but you can also add fresh parsley for an extra flavor boost.

Preparing the soup:

1. Cooking the smoked meat: In a large pot, place the smoked meat to boil in one and a half liters of cold water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This step is essential to extract the flavors from the meat.

2. Preparing the flavors: After the smoked meat has boiled, add a bunch of dill and dried thyme to the pot. These herbs will infuse the soup with delicious flavors. Let it simmer together for another 10 minutes.

3. Preparing the cabbage: Meanwhile, clean and chop the cabbage into thin strips. Place the cabbage in a bowl and sprinkle a little salt over it. Rub the cabbage with your hands to release its juices and soften it. This trick will make the cabbage cook faster and become more flavorful.

4. Adding the cabbage: After the smoked meat has boiled, add the cabbage to the pot and let it simmer together for 20-30 minutes until the cabbage becomes tender.

5. Preparing the roux: In a separate pan, heat the oil and add the chopped onion. Sauté the onion until it becomes golden and translucent, then add the flour. Mix well to avoid lumps, then add the tomato puree and continue to stir until the mixture becomes smooth and thickens.

6. Finalizing the soup: Pour the onion and tomato mixture into the pot with the soup. Mix well and let it simmer for another 10 minutes. Finally, taste and adjust the salt if necessary.

Serving:

Cabbage soup with smoked meat is served hot, with a generous spoonful of sour cream on top. This adds a creamy contrast and a delicious flavor. If you want a touch of freshness, sprinkle some chopped fresh dill on top before serving.

Recipe variations:

For a vegetarian version, you can replace the smoked meat with smoked mushrooms or marinated tofu. Additionally, adding grated carrots or diced potatoes during cooking will give it a more complex texture and taste.

Frequently asked questions:

1. How long can the soup be stored? Cabbage soup with smoked meat can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It is also a dish that improves in flavor after a day.

2. Can the soup be frozen? Yes, this soup can be frozen. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers.

3. What does this soup pair well with? This soup pairs perfectly with a slice of homemade bread, but also with fresh polenta. Additionally, a dry white wine would beautifully complement the meal.

Nutritional benefits:

Cabbage soup is an excellent source of vitamins, especially vitamin C, and contains fiber that aids digestion. The smoked meat brings protein and iron, essential for maintaining energy throughout the day.

Cabbage soup with smoked meat is more than just a meal; it is a culinary experience that connects us to traditions and brings us together. Preparing this soup becomes a small celebration of authentic flavors, and each bite offers us a journey back in time, to when meals were an occasion for gathering and joy. So, put on your apron, gather the ingredients, and let yourself be inspired by the magic of cooking!