Warm up with the savory embrace of polish cabbage soup: a step-by-step guide
What To Know
- It is a simple yet satisfying soup that is perfect for a cold winter day or any time you need a comforting meal.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery in a little bit of oil until softened.
- Blend a portion of the soup until smooth and add it back to the pot for a creamy texture.
Polish cabbage soup, known as kapuśniak, is a hearty and flavorful dish that is a staple of Polish cuisine. It is a simple yet satisfying soup that is perfect for a cold winter day or any time you need a comforting meal. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to make authentic Polish cabbage soup:
Ingredients:
- 1 head of cabbage, shredded
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 can (15 ounces) of diced tomatoes
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomato soup
- 1 can (15 ounces) of beef broth
- 1 cup of water
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sour cream, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Sauté the vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the cabbage: Add the shredded cabbage to the pot and stir to combine. Cook until the cabbage starts to wilt.
3. Add the remaining ingredients: Add the potatoes, diced tomatoes, tomato soup, beef broth, water, thyme, oregano, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Serve: Garnish with sour cream if desired and enjoy!
Variations:
- Meat lovers: Add some cooked ground beef or sausage to the soup for a heartier meal.
- Veggies galore: Add other vegetables to the soup, such as green beans, peas, or corn.
- Spice it up: Add some red pepper flakes or chili powder to the soup for a bit of spice.
- Creamy cabbage soup: Blend a portion of the soup until smooth and add it back to the pot for a creamy texture.
Tips:
- For a richer flavor, use homemade beef broth or stock.
- If you don’t have diced tomatoes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Just chop them into small pieces.
- Don’t overcook the cabbage. It should be tender but still have a bit of crunch.
- Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread or rolls for dipping.
Health Benefits:
Polish cabbage soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Cabbage is a good source of vitamins C and K, as well as fiber. The other vegetables in the soup provide additional vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
What to Serve with Polish Cabbage Soup:
- Crusty bread or rolls
- Sour cream
- Pickled beets
- Kielbasa
Final Thoughts:
Polish cabbage soup is a comforting and flavorful dish that is easy to make and packed with nutrients. It is a versatile soup that can be customized to your liking. So next time you are looking for a hearty and satisfying meal, give this Polish cabbage soup a try!
Frequently Asked Questions:
Q: Can I use a different type of cabbage in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use any type of cabbage you like. However, green cabbage is the most traditional type of cabbage used in Polish cabbage soup.
Q: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Just add all of the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes, you can freeze this soup for up to 3 months. Just let it cool completely before freezing. When you are ready to eat the soup, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then reheat it over medium heat.
