Get ready to embark on a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Polish cuisine! This Sweet and Sour Cabbage Soup is not just a recipe; it's a magical blend of tangy, sweet, and hearty flavors that will make you fall in love with comfort food all over again. Imagine a steaming bowl of vibrant vegetables swimming in a rich, flavorful broth that promises to chase away the coldest of days and bring instant warmth to your kitchen.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Polish
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1/2 head of cabbage, shredded
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Shred half a head of cabbage, chop one onion, and dice two carrots. This will help streamline the cooking process.
- In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the diced carrots to the pot and continue to sauté for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the carrots are slightly softened.
- Next, add the shredded cabbage to the pot. Stir well to combine all the vegetables, and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the cabbage to wilt slightly.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, ensuring that all the vegetables are submerged. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 15 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld together.
- After 15 minutes, stir in the apple cider vinegar and sugar. Adjust the sweetness and acidity to your taste by adding more sugar or vinegar if desired.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste, giving it a good stir to incorporate the seasonings evenly.
- Let the soup simmer for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to develop further.
- Once done, remove the pot from the heat. Serve the Sweet and Sour Cabbage Soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your meal!
Tips
- Vegetable Preparation: Ensure your cabbage is shredded uniformly for even cooking and a consistent texture throughout the soup.
- Flavor Balancing: The key to this recipe is achieving the perfect sweet and sour balance. Start with the recommended amounts of apple cider vinegar and sugar, but don't be afraid to adjust to your personal taste.
- Sautéing Technique: Take your time when sautéing onions and carrots. This step builds a flavor foundation for the entire soup.
- Simmer Slowly: Allow the soup to simmer gently to help the flavors meld together and develop a rich, complex taste.
- Optional Enhancements: For added depth, consider adding a small amount of tomato paste or garnishing with fresh dill or parsley before serving.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This soup tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance and reheat for an even more developed flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 75kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 1g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
