Sweet cabbage soup with sour milk

Sweet cabbage soup with fermented milk is a traditional recipe that combines the intense flavors of smoked meat with the sweetness of cabbage and the creaminess of milk. This soup is not only a delight for the taste buds but also a source of comfort and nostalgia, evoking childhood memories and family gatherings around the table. It is an excellent choice for a family meal, especially on chilly days when a steaming bowl of hot soup can turn any day into a better one.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 6

Ingredients:

- 1 medium cabbage (about 1 kg)
- 1 medium onion
- 2 carrots
- 1 parsnip
- A small piece of celery
- 2 garlic cloves
- 500 g smoked meat (preferably sausages or smoked bacon)
- 1 large potato
- 500 ml fermented milk (or buttermilk)
- 1 tablespoon bell pepper paste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Sweet paprika
- Fresh dill, chopped, for garnish
- Thyme, fresh or dried

Preparation of sweet cabbage soup with fermented milk:

1. Preparing the ingredients: The first step is to ensure all ingredients are cleaned and properly chopped. Start by peeling the onion, carrots, parsnip, and celery. Chop the onion finely, and cut the carrots and parsnip into small cubes. The celery can be sliced thinly. The cabbage should be cut into squares or strips, depending on preference. The potato can be diced into small cubes for quicker cooking.

2. Boiling the smoked meat: In a large pot, add the smoked meat cut into portions and cover with water. Add a little salt, the bell pepper paste, the chopped onion, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce to low heat and let simmer for about 30 minutes. This step will infuse the soup with the intense flavors of the smoked meat.

3. Adding the vegetables: Once the smoked meat has boiled, add the carrots, parsnip, celery, and diced potato. Let everything boil together for 10-15 minutes. Then, add the chopped cabbage and mix well. Cook on low heat for another 15-20 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender.

4. Finishing the soup: When all the vegetables are cooked, turn off the heat and add the fermented milk. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper, as desired. You can also add a little sweet paprika for extra flavor.

5. Serving: Finally, sprinkle the chopped dill on top for a fresh and aromatic appearance. The sweet cabbage soup with fermented milk is served hot, alongside hot peppers for those who prefer a spicy touch.

Useful tips:

- If you want a vegetarian version, you can replace the smoked meat with mushrooms or smoked tofu.
- The soup can also be made with other vegetables, such as zucchini or green beans, to give it a different note.
- The fermented milk can be replaced with sour cream for a creamier taste.
- Make sure the cabbage is fresh and crunchy to achieve a pleasant texture in the soup.

Nutritional benefits:

Sweet cabbage soup with fermented milk is an excellent source of vitamins and minerals, thanks to the fresh vegetables. Cabbage is rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, while the smoked meat adds a protein boost. The fermented milk provides calcium and probiotics, contributing to healthy digestion. This soup, as a whole, is a hearty and nutritious meal, perfect for the whole family.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use pickled cabbage instead of sweet cabbage? Yes, but you will need to adjust the amount of salt in the recipe, as pickled cabbage is already salty.

2. Can the soup be frozen? Yes, the soup can be frozen, but it is recommended to add the fermented milk only when serving to avoid separation during thawing.

3. What other side dishes can I use? Sweet cabbage soup can be served with fresh bread, croutons, or even a slice of polenta for a more substantial meal.

4. How can I enhance the flavor? For a more intense taste, you can add a few bay leaves during boiling or drizzle the soup with lemon juice before serving.

5. What kind of drinks pair well with this soup? Sweet cabbage soup pairs perfectly with a dry white wine or a pale lager, and for a non-alcoholic alternative, a refreshing herbal tea is an excellent choice.

Sweet cabbage soup with fermented milk is more than just a recipe; it is a way to bring family and friends together, to create memories, and to savor every bite. So, embrace the tradition, experiment with the ingredients, and enjoy this delicious soup! Enjoy your meal!