Introduction

Sweet and sour cabbage soup is a delightful dish that balances tangy and sweet flavors, making it a comforting choice for any season. This recipe showcases the versatility of cabbage, blending it with other ingredients to create a hearty and satisfying soup. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also offers a healthy option packed with nutrients.

Detailed Ingredients with measures

– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 carrots, peeled and diced
– 2 stalks of celery, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, with their juices
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Fresh parsley for garnish

Prep Time

The preparation time for this sweet and sour cabbage soup is approximately 15 minutes. This includes the time to chop all the vegetables and gather your ingredients.

Cook Time, Total Time, Yield

The cook time for the soup is around 30 minutes, resulting in a total time of about 45 minutes from start to finish. This recipe yields around 6 servings, making it an excellent option for family meals or meal prep for the week ahead.

Detailed Directions and Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by slicing the cabbage into thin strips. Chop the onions and carrots, and dice the bell pepper. Prepare the garlic by mincing it.

Step 2: Saute the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and bell pepper. Saute until the onions become translucent.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Cabbage

Stir in the minced garlic and cabbage. Cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally until the cabbage starts to soften.

Step 4: Incorporate Liquid and Seasonings

Pour in vegetable broth or water, and add tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes until the cabbage is tender.

Step 6: Adjust Seasoning

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more vinegar, sugar, or salt as per your preference.

Step 7: Serve the Soup

Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Notes

Note 1: Variations

You can add other vegetables such as potatoes or tomatoes for added flavor and texture.

Note 2: Storage

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Note 3: Freezing

The soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Note 4: Vegan Option

Ensure to use vegetable broth and other plant-based ingredients to keep the soup vegan-friendly.

Cook techniques

Sautéing

Sautéing is a cooking technique that involves cooking ingredients quickly in a small amount of oil or fat over medium-high heat. This technique is used to develop flavors and soften vegetables, like the onions and cabbage in the soup.

Simmering

Simmering involves cooking food gently in liquid at a temperature just below boiling. For the sweet and sour cabbage soup, this technique helps meld the flavors of the broth and ingredients together, resulting in a rich, cohesive taste.

Seasoning

Seasoning is the process of adding salt, herbs, spices, and other flavorings to enhance the taste of a dish. In this soup, balancing the sweet and sour components with proper seasoning is crucial for achieving the desired flavor profile.

Chopping

Chopping involves cutting ingredients into small pieces. Properly chopped vegetables ensure even cooking and make for a more pleasant texture in the final dish.

Stirring

Stirring is a fundamental technique used to combine ingredients and ensure even cooking. In the preparation of sweet and sour cabbage soup, stirring helps distribute the heat and mix flavors throughout the dish.

FAQ

Can I use other vegetables in this soup?

Yes, you can add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers to enhance the flavor and texture of the soup.

How can I make the soup vegetarian?

To make the soup vegetarian, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I store leftovers?

Yes, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.

What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or a simple salad for a complete meal.

Is this soup suitable for freezing?

Yes, the soup can be frozen. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.

Conclusion

The Sweet and Sour Cabbage Soup is a delightful dish that balances tanginess and sweetness, making it a comforting meal perfect for cold days. Its vibrant color and rich flavors not only satisfy your taste buds but also nourish your body. With the incorporation of fresh vegetables and wholesome ingredients, this soup is a great addition to any healthy diet.

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