Delicious cabbage soup

Delicious Cabbage Soup: Simple and Tasty Recipe

Cabbage soup is one of those dishes that reminds us of warm moments spent with family. It is a simple recipe, yet extremely flavorful, combining basic ingredients to create a comforting and healthy dish. In many cultures, soup is considered a symbol of warmth and hospitality, and our version of cabbage soup is perfect for bringing a touch of nostalgia to your plate.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total: 55 minutes
Number of servings: 6

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 small cabbage (approximately 1 kg)
- 300 g smoked pork or kaiser (optional)
- 2 medium carrots
- 1 large onion
- 1 bell pepper (preferably red or yellow)
- 1 large tomato (or 200 g canned tomatoes)
- 3 thin slices of bacon
- Salt, pepper, vegeta (to taste)
- Fresh dill, chopped (for serving)
- Water (approximately 2 liters)

Step-by-step preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by washing and peeling all the vegetables. Cut the cabbage into thin strips, the onion into small cubes, the carrots into rounds, the bell pepper into cubes, and the tomato into pieces. If using smoked meat, cut it into suitable pieces.

2. Browning the bacon:
In a large pot, add the 3 slices of bacon and turn the heat to medium. Let the bacon melt and become crispy, releasing its fat. This step will give the soup a rich and savory flavor.

3. Sautéing the vegetables:
Once the bacon is browned, add the onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until it becomes translucent. Add the carrots and bell pepper, continuing to sauté the vegetables for 5-6 minutes. This process will intensify the flavors and provide a delicious base for the soup.

4. Adding the meat:
If you choose to add smoked meat, now is the time. Place the pieces of meat in the pot and mix well to combine with the vegetables. Let it simmer together for 3-4 minutes.

5. Incorporating the cabbage:
Add the chopped cabbage and stir gently. Cover the pot and let the cabbage soften for 5-7 minutes. This step is essential to allow the cabbage to release its juices and flavors into the soup.

6. Filling with water:
Fill the pot with water, leaving enough room for the soup to boil. Add salt to taste and bring the soup to a boil. Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30 minutes.

7. Seasoning:
Finally, add pepper, vegeta, and the chopped dill. Mix well and check the taste. You may want to adjust the seasonings according to your preference.

8. Serving:
Cabbage soup is served hot, with a spoonful of sour cream on top if you desire a creamier texture. A garnish of fresh dill will not only add color but also a fresh taste.

Serving suggestions and variations:
- If you want a lighter version, you can make the soup without smoked meat. In this case, use additional vegetables like zucchini or green beans for an extra nutrient boost.
- Serve the soup with a slice of homemade bread or crispy croutons for a pleasant contrast of textures.
- Vary the flavors by adding spices like sweet paprika or herbs such as thyme or oregano.

Nutritional benefits:
Cabbage soup is not only tasty but also healthy. Cabbage is a rich source of vitamins C and K, as well as fiber, which contributes to healthy digestion. Carrots provide important beta-carotene, and the smoked meat, although optional, adds essential protein.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use sauerkraut? Yes, a delicious variation is to replace fresh cabbage with sauerkraut, which will give the soup a tangy note.
- What other ingredients can I add? You can include potatoes or white beans to make the soup heartier.
- How can I store the soup? The soup can be kept in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container. It can be frozen for later consumption, but be careful that the cabbage does not become mushy upon thawing.

This cabbage soup recipe is not only simple but also a wonderful way to bring a touch of warmth and comfort on colder days. Prepare it with love and savor each spoonful, knowing that you have cooked something truly special!