Chilean Cabbage Soup

Chilean Cabbage Soup Recipe - A Hearty and Comforting Soup from Chile

Region / culture: Chile | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 35 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Chilean Cabbage Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that is perfect for a chilly day. This soup is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a great option for a healthy meal. The combination of cabbage, potatoes, leeks, and cheese creates a delicious and satisfying soup that is sure to please your taste buds.

History

Chilean Cabbage Soup has been a popular dish in Chile for many years. It is a traditional recipe that has been passed down through generations. This soup is often served as a first course or as a light meal, and is enjoyed by many Chileans for its simplicity and delicious taste.

Ingredients

1 small green cabbage - (about 1 lb (454 g)) finely shredded
2 medium potatoes, peeled, sliced thin, and cut into fingers
1 large leek, washed, and sliced finely
4 tbsp butter
6 cups vegetable or chicken stock
salt, to taste
freshly-ground white pepper, to taste
1 cup coarsely-grated muenster cheese

How to prepare

Melt the butter over medium heat in a Dutch oven.
Once the butter is bubbly, add the cabbage, potatoes, and leeks. Toss with a wooden spoon for about 4 to 5 minutes until the cabbage and leeks are wilted.
Pour in the stock, season to taste, and bring to a boil. Then, reduce the heat.
Cover and simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
When ready to serve, ladle the soup into bowls and grate the cheese directly on top of each serving.
Serve hot as a first course for 6 people, or as a light meal for four.
In flat soup bowls, this soup will resemble a finger painting with delicate greens and pale yellows.
When eaten, it serves to stimulate appetites and prepare the palate for spicy foods.
It is also enjoyable as a quick lunch or snack.

Variations

Add cooked chicken or sausage for extra protein.
Stir in some cooked beans or lentils for added fiber.
Garnish with fresh herbs such as parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and flavor.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to finely shred the cabbage to ensure that it cooks evenly and quickly.

- Be sure to wash the leeks thoroughly to remove any dirt or grit.

- Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences by adding more salt and pepper if desired.

- For a creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the soup before serving.

- Serve the soup hot with a sprinkle of freshly grated cheese on top for added flavor.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chilean Cabbage Soup as a first course or as a light meal with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad.

Cooking Techniques

Shred the cabbage finely to ensure even cooking.

- Simmer the soup on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together.

- Grate the cheese directly on top of the hot soup to melt and create a creamy texture.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock for a vegetarian version.

- Substitute olive oil for butter for a dairy-free option.

- Use any type of cheese you prefer for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

Chilean Cabbage Soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat on the stove before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Serve Chilean Cabbage Soup in colorful bowls with a sprinkle of fresh herbs on top for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Chilean Cabbage Soup with a glass of white wine or a light beer for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Chilean Cabbage Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Chilean Cabbage Soup contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Chilean Cabbage Soup contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Chilean Cabbage Soup contains approximately 12 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of Chilean Cabbage Soup contains approximately 8 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Chilean Cabbage Soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, including vitamin C, vitamin K, potassium, and calcium.

Alergens

Chilean Cabbage Soup contains dairy (cheese) and may not be suitable for individuals with lactose intolerance or dairy allergies.

Summary

Chilean Cabbage Soup is a nutritious and delicious dish that is low in calories and high in vitamins and minerals. It is a great option for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Summary

Chilean Cabbage Soup is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is perfect for a cozy meal. Packed with cabbage, potatoes, leeks, and cheese, this soup is sure to warm you up from the inside out. Enjoy this traditional Chilean recipe with your family and friends for a delicious and satisfying meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still recall the sense of amazement I felt when I first saw this recipe for Chilean Cabbage Soup. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in Chile. My grandmother, who was a master in the kitchen, had been given the recipe by a neighbor who had learned it from her own grandmother.

The first time I saw my grandmother prepare this soup, I was mesmerized by the way she effortlessly chopped the cabbage, sautéed the onions and garlic, and added the rich broth and seasonings. The aroma that filled the kitchen was unlike anything I had ever experienced before - a combination of savory herbs and spices that made my mouth water.

As I watched her cook, I knew that I had to learn how to make this delicious soup for myself. I begged my grandmother to teach me her secrets, and she agreed, with a twinkle in her eye. She handed me a wooden spoon and guided me through each step, explaining the importance of using fresh ingredients and taking the time to let the flavors meld together.

I practiced making the soup over and over again, each time tweaking the seasonings and adjusting the cooking time until I had perfected the recipe. My grandmother would taste each batch, offering her advice and encouragement, until finally she declared that I had mastered the art of making Chilean Cabbage Soup.

Years passed, and I continued to make this soup for my own family, passing down the recipe from generation to generation. Each time I prepare it, I am reminded of the time spent in my grandmother's kitchen, learning the secrets of this delicious dish.

The recipe for Chilean Cabbage Soup has become a treasured family tradition, one that brings us together around the table to share stories and laughter. It is a reminder of the love and dedication that my grandmother put into everything she cooked, and a way for me to honor her memory.

I am grateful for the opportunity to learn this recipe, and for the memories that it brings back every time I make it. It is a taste of my childhood, a connection to my heritage, and a reminder of the importance of passing down traditions from one generation to the next.

So the next time you find yourself in the kitchen, looking for a new recipe to try, I urge you to give Chilean Cabbage Soup a chance. Let its rich flavors and comforting warmth transport you to a different time and place, and allow yourself to savor the memories that come with each delicious spoonful.