Sweet cabbage soup

Sweet cabbage soup - an explosion of freshness and flavor!

Sweet cabbage soup is one of those dishes that reminds us of sunny spring and summer days when fresh vegetables are just waiting to be transformed into delicious treats. This soup, full of aroma and color, not only enriches our meals but is also a healthy option due to its nutritious ingredients. Moreover, it is a simple recipe, easy to prepare, perfect for any cooking enthusiast, whether you are a beginner or an expert.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Necessary ingredients:
- 1 sweet cabbage (about 1 kg)
- 1 yellow onion
- 1 carrot
- 1 small celery
- 1 parsnip
- 1 red bell pepper
- 2 ripe tomatoes
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- Iodized salt, to taste
- Freshly ground pepper, to taste
- 200 ml tomato puree
- Olive oil or vegetable oil, for sautéing

A brief history of the recipe:
Sweet cabbage soup has deep roots in the culinary traditions of many cultures, prepared in various forms. This dish is often associated with warm seasons when vegetables are in season, and housewives showcase their best recipes using fresh and aromatic ingredients. Cabbage soup is not just a symbol of family meals but also a way to savor the natural flavors offered by the earth.

Step by step: Preparing sweet cabbage soup

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by cleaning and chopping all the vegetables. The yellow onion is finely chopped, and the carrot, celery, and parsnip are grated on a large grater. The red bell pepper and tomatoes are chopped finely. Make sure you have all the ingredients close by to facilitate the cooking process.

2. Sautéing the onion:
In a large pot, add 2-3 tablespoons of olive oil and a little water. Add the finely chopped onion to sauté over medium heat, stirring occasionally. It will turn golden, and its aroma will intensify, preparing the ground for the other vegetables.

3. Adding the vegetables:
Once the onion is sautéed, add the grated carrot, celery, and parsnip. Mix well and let them sauté together for about 5-7 minutes until they become slightly soft. This step is essential for developing a rich flavor.

4. Including the bell peppers and tomatoes:
Add the chopped red bell pepper and tomatoes to the mixture. Continue cooking for 5-7 minutes, stirring periodically. This will give the soup a vibrant color palette and a fresh taste.

5. Adding the cabbage:
Clean the sweet cabbage of the outer leaves and grate it. Add the grated cabbage to the pot, mixing well with the other vegetables. This is the moment when the soup will gain its specific consistency.

6. Boiling the soup:
Add about 2 liters of water to the pot and let the soup boil over medium heat. Cover with a lid and let it boil for 30 minutes. Check periodically and stir to prevent the ingredients from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

7. Seasoning:
After 30 minutes, add salt and pepper to taste. This step is crucial as the spices will highlight the natural flavors of the vegetables.

8. Finalizing the soup:
In the last 10 minutes of boiling, add the tomato puree. This will enhance the color and flavor of the soup. Let it simmer over low heat without a lid to allow the soup to thicken slightly.

9. Serving:
When the soup is ready, turn off the heat and let it cool slightly. When serving, sprinkle finely chopped fresh dill on top. The dill will add a fresh note and an unmistakable taste. You can serve the soup hot, alongside a slice of fresh bread or croutons for an extra flavor boost.

Tips and useful advice:
- Sweet cabbage soup can be customized according to your preferences. You can add other vegetables like zucchini or potatoes for a richer consistency.
- If you want a spicier soup, you can add a little chili pepper or spices like paprika.
- This soup can be kept in the fridge for 3-4 days and is even tastier the next day when the flavors have had time to blend.

Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use sour cabbage instead of sweet cabbage? Yes, but the taste will be different and will add a more sour note to the soup.
- How can I make the soup thicker? Add a handful of rice or pasta at the beginning of cooking, before adding the water.
- How many calories are in a serving? A serving of sweet cabbage soup has approximately 150-200 calories, depending on the ingredients used. It is a healthy option, rich in fiber and vitamins.

Delicious combinations:
This soup pairs perfectly with a raw vegetable salad or a serving of warm polenta. You can also pair it with a glass of dry white wine, which will perfectly complement the flavors.

Enjoy this sweet cabbage soup recipe and let yourself be carried away by the natural flavors of spring! Each bite will feel like a warm hug, and your meals will become fuller of joy and health. Cooking is an art, and each recipe is an opportunity to create delicious memories with your loved ones.