Light cabbage soup

Light Cabbage Soup

A warm and comforting soup, cabbage soup is a dish that combines simple and healthy ingredients in a delicious way. This recipe can be considered a true culinary refuge, which not only warms our hearts but also provides a nourishing meal. The entire recipe can be prepared in about 45 minutes and is enough for 4 servings.

The history of this soup is linked to culinary traditions that use accessible ingredients, transforming them into delicious and hearty dishes. It is a perfect recipe for cool days or for moments when we want a light yet flavorful meal.

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 small cabbage
- 1 onion
- 1 carrot
- 2 potatoes
- 2 cloves of garlic
- 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil or vegetable oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bunch of fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon of flour
- 1 cup of tomato paste or tomato puree

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Step-by-step instructions:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling and chopping the vegetables. Finely chop the onion, slice the carrot into thin rounds, and dice the potatoes. Shred the cabbage to ensure even cooking.

2. Sautéing the onion: In a large pot, add the oil and heat it over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes or until it becomes translucent. This step is essential to release the onion's aroma and give your soup a special flavor.

3. Adding garlic and carrot: Once the onion is sautéed, add the minced garlic and sliced carrot. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent the garlic from burning, which can make it bitter.

4. Incorporating the flour: Sprinkle the tablespoon of flour over the vegetable mixture and mix well. This step will help thicken the soup and achieve a creamy texture. Let it sauté for a minute.

5. Deglazing with water: Add about 1.5 liters of water to the pot, stirring well to combine all the ingredients. Allow the soup to simmer over medium heat for 10 minutes.

6. Adding cabbage and potatoes: Once the soup has started to boil, add the shredded cabbage and diced potatoes. These vegetables will cook quickly and add extra nutrients and texture to the soup.

7. Seasoning: After another 10-15 minutes of boiling, when the vegetables are tender, add the tomato paste or puree, salt, and pepper to taste. Mix well to combine the flavors.

8. Finalizing: Before serving, add the chopped fresh dill, which will provide a fresh and aromatic taste to the soup. Let the soup simmer for a few more minutes, then turn off the heat.

9. Serving: You can serve the cabbage soup warm, adding a spoonful of sour cream to the bowl if you like. This will add a creamy note and balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

Useful tips:
- Variations: You can also add other vegetables, such as celery or bell peppers, to diversify the flavors. Additionally, you can replace the tomato paste with fresh diced tomatoes.
- Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add more flour or puree some of the vegetables after boiling.
- Preserving flavors: Allow the soup to cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator. It will keep well for 3-4 days and can be easily reheated.

Nutritional benefits: Cabbage soup is an excellent choice for those looking to consume a healthy meal rich in fiber and vitamins. Cabbage is known for its antioxidant properties, while carrots provide a source of beta-carotene. Additionally, this soup is relatively low in calories, making it ideal for a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use sauerkraut?: Yes, sauerkraut can be an excellent alternative, but it will slightly change the flavor of the soup, giving it a tangy note.
- What other spices can I add?: You can experiment with herbs like thyme or basil to customize the soup's flavor.
- How can I turn the soup into a main dish?: Add some pieces of meat, such as chicken or pork, and boil them along with the vegetables.

This light cabbage soup is not just a simple dish, but also a way to bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. So, dress up as a beginner in the art of cooking and enjoy this comforting recipe that will surely become a favorite in your family. Enjoy your meal!