Cabbage soup with smoked meat

Cabbage soup with smoked meat - a recipe that combines tradition and flavor, perfect for cool days, but can be enjoyed at any time of the year. This soup is a true feast of aromas, bringing together fresh and smoked ingredients for a comforting and flavorful dish. I invite you to discover step by step how to prepare this culinary delicacy!

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

Ingredients

- 1 medium fresh cabbage (about 1.5 kg)
- 1 large onion
- 2 carrots
- 1 celery
- 1 parsnip
- 1 parsley root
- 300 g of smoked meat (ribs or smoked sausages)
- 3-4 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 green bell pepper
- 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon of curry (optional, for a more exotic taste)
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- 1 bunch of fresh thyme
- 1 bunch of basil (for flavor)
- 2-3 chopped tomatoes (or a can of tomatoes)
- 1 tablespoon of vegeta (or salt, to taste)
- 300 ml of borscht (or to taste)
- Sour cream or yogurt, for serving
- Green onion, for garnish

Preparation steps

Step 1: Prepare the ingredients

Start by preparing all the ingredients. Cut the cabbage into thin strips and rub it with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance its flavor. Chop the onion finely, and peel and dice the carrots, celery, parsnip, and parsley root. Dice the bell peppers.

Step 2: Sauté the vegetables

In a large pot, add the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion for a few minutes until it becomes translucent. Then add the bell peppers and carrot and continue to sauté for another 5-7 minutes, stirring frequently. Finally, add the celery, parsnip, and parsley. Season with paprika and curry, stirring well to release the spices' aromas.

Step 3: Boil the smoked meat

In a separate pot, place the smoked meat to boil in water (about 3/4 of the pot) and let it boil until it reaches a rolling boil. Remember to skim the soup at the beginning to remove impurities. After it has boiled, add the sautéed vegetables to the pot with the smoked meat.

Step 4: Add the cabbage

After about 20 minutes of boiling, add the chopped cabbage and mix well. Let everything simmer on low heat for another 20-30 minutes until the cabbage becomes soft and aromatic. At this point, you can also add the chopped tomatoes for an extra flavor boost.

Step 5: Finish the soup

When the vegetables are cooked, add the borscht and adjust the salt to taste. In a small bowl, mix a tablespoon of flour with a little water or with tomatoes to create a slurry, then gradually add it to the soup, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Let it boil for another 5-10 minutes.

Step 6: Serve

Cabbage soup with smoked meat is served hot, topped with a spoonful of sour cream or yogurt for creaminess. Sprinkle fresh dill and chopped green onion on top for an extra touch of freshness.

Practical tips

- Cabbage: Choose a fresh, in-season cabbage that feels firm to the touch. Young cabbage has a milder taste, ideal for soups.
- Smoked meat: If you don't have ribs, you can use smoked sausages or any other smoked meat product. This will add a special flavor to your dish.
- Spices: If you enjoy spicier flavors, you can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili.
- Variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as potatoes or zucchini, to diversify the texture and flavor of the soup.
- Alternative serving: Instead of sour cream, you can try serving the soup with Greek yogurt for a refreshing note.

Nutritional benefits

Cabbage soup with smoked meat is not only delicious but also healthy. Cabbage is rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, helping to strengthen the immune system and aid digestion. The smoked meat provides quality protein, while the added vegetables contribute to the intake of essential vitamins and minerals.

Frequently asked questions

- How long can I keep the soup in the fridge?
The soup can be kept in the fridge for 3-4 days, and the taste improves over the days.

- Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup. It's recommended to do so without sour cream, adding it only when serving.

- What drinks pair well with cabbage soup?
This soup pairs perfectly with a dry white wine or a light beer, which balances the rich flavors of the dish.

Conclusion

Cabbage soup with smoked meat is not just a meal; it's a culinary experience that brings together tradition and comfort. This simple and tasty recipe will delight you and make you feel at home, no matter where you are. Whether you enjoy it with family or friends, each spoonful will bring joy and warmth to the hearts of your loved ones. Enjoy your meal!