Red cabbage soup

Red Cabbage Soup with Wine and Lemon Flavor

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 4-6

Introduction:
Red cabbage soup is a traditional recipe that combines the flavor of fresh vegetables with the delicate notes of red wine and lemon. This soup is not only a delicious choice for a comforting meal but also a dish full of nutritional benefits. Red cabbage is rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, and the combination with bone broth gives it a deep flavor and an extra boost of collagen. Moreover, it is a simple and quick recipe, perfect for cool days.

Ingredients:
- 1 medium red cabbage
- 2-3 glasses of dry red wine (choose a quality wine for better taste)
- 6 glasses of bone broth (or water, if you prefer a vegetarian option)
- 1 lemon, sliced
- 3-4 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 2-3 tablespoons of oil (olive or sunflower)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon of sugar
- Fresh dill, for garnish
- Hot pepper, optional, for a spicy kick

Preparation:
1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by peeling the potatoes. Cut them into uniform cubes so that they cook evenly. Wash the red cabbage well, then cut it into cubes or strips, depending on your preference.

2. Boiling the potatoes: In a large pot, add water with a pinch of salt and bring to a boil. Add the potato cubes and let them boil for 10-15 minutes until they are soft but not mushy. Once done, drain them and set aside.

3. Sautéing the cabbage: In another pot, add the oil and let it heat gently. Add the chopped cabbage and sauté over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes until it becomes slightly soft. This is the time to add the red wine. Let the cabbage absorb the wine's flavor for 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Adding the bone broth: Once the cabbage has absorbed the wine, add the bone broth. You can use beef or chicken broth for added flavor. Then, add the teaspoon of sugar, which will balance the acidity of the lemon and wine.

5. Infusing with lemon: In a separate pan, sauté the lemon slices for 2-3 minutes until they become slightly golden. This step will intensify the lemon's flavor. Add the lemon slices to the soup along with salt and pepper to taste. Let everything simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes until the cabbage is fully cooked.

6. Finishing the soup: Finally, add the boiled potatoes to the soup. Stir gently and let it simmer for another 5 minutes to combine the flavors. Remove the lemon slices if you prefer a less tangy soup.

7. Serving: Serve the soup hot, sprinkled with freshly chopped dill, and if you like, with finely chopped hot pepper for a bit of spice. This soup is delicious and pairs perfectly with a slice of homemade bread or crispy croutons.

Tips and Tricks:
- Wine: Choose a quality dry red wine. The taste of the wine will significantly influence the soup's flavor, so don’t skimp on this ingredient.
- Bone broth: You can prepare bone broth at home by simmering meat bones for several hours. This will add depth of flavor to your soup. If using store-bought broth, make sure it is of good quality.
- Variations: You can experiment with other vegetables, such as carrots or celery, to give your soup a personal touch. You can also replace red cabbage with white cabbage for a different variation.
- Nutritional benefits: Red cabbage is rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber, making it excellent for the immune system and digestion. Additionally, bone broth is known for its benefits for joints and skin due to collagen.

Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I make the soup vegetarian? Yes, you can replace the bone broth with water or vegetable broth and omit the wine for a completely vegetarian option.
- How long does the soup last? The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. You can freeze it for longer storage, although it is best consumed fresh.
- What other recipes pair well with this soup? Red cabbage soup pairs perfectly with a meat sandwich or a tuna salad. You can also accompany it with a glass of red wine to complement the flavors.

I conclude with a personal thought: every soup you prepare is a story in itself. Every ingredient has its role, and every step in the cooking process is an opportunity to bring people closer together. So, enjoy every moment spent in the kitchen and don’t forget to share the result with your loved ones! Enjoy your meal!