Kohlsuppe Recipe - Traditional German Soup with Bacon and Vegetables

Kohlsuppe

Kohlsuppe Recipe - Traditional German Soup with Bacon and Vegetables
Region / culture: Germany | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 2 hours | Servings: 6

Introduction

Kohlsuppe
Kohlsuppe

Kohlsuppe, also known as cabbage soup, is a traditional German dish that is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a cold winter day. This recipe combines the earthy flavors of cabbage, turnips, carrots, and potatoes with the smoky richness of bacon to create a comforting and satisfying meal.

History

Kohlsuppe has been a staple in German cuisine for centuries, with variations of the recipe being passed down through generations. Originally a peasant dish, cabbage soup was a way to make use of inexpensive and readily available ingredients during the winter months. Over time, the recipe has evolved to include different vegetables and seasonings, but the heart of the dish remains the same.

Ingredients

Garnish

How to prepare

  1. In a 6 qt (5.68 liter) saucepan or pot, combine all ingredients except salt, pepper, and cheese.
  2. Simmer partially covered for 1.5 to 2 hours.
  3. Discard the bundle of parsley; season to taste.
  4. Pour into hot soup bowls and garnish with cheese.

Variations

  • Add cooked sausage or ham for a meatier version of the soup.
  • Substitute chicken or vegetable broth for the bouillon for a different flavor profile.
  • Add a splash of apple cider vinegar or white wine for a tangy twist.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to cook the bacon until it is crispy to add a depth of flavor to the soup.

- Simmering the soup for a longer period of time will allow the flavors to meld together and create a rich and savory broth.

- Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences, adding more salt and pepper as needed.

- Garnishing the soup with grated parmesan cheese adds a creamy and salty finish to the dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Kohlsuppe with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the soup slowly allows the flavors to develop and intensify.

- Stir the soup occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use turkey bacon or pancetta in place of traditional bacon for a lighter option.

- Substitute kale or Swiss chard for the cabbage for a different texture and flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Kohlsuppe can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish each bowl of soup with a sprig of fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil for a beautiful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Kohlsuppe with a crisp white wine or a light lager to complement the flavors of the soup.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftover Kohlsuppe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to thin out the soup.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

200

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 28g

- Dietary Fiber: 6g

- Sugars: 8g

Fats

- Total Fat: 8g

- Saturated Fat: 3g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 6g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 50% DV

- Vitamin C: 70% DV

- Calcium: 15% DV

- Iron: 10% DV

Alergens

Contains dairy (parmesan cheese)

Summary

Kohlsuppe is a nutritious and balanced meal that is high in vitamins A and C, fiber, and protein. It is a low-calorie option that is perfect for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.

Summary

Kohlsuppe is a classic German cabbage soup that is hearty, flavorful, and perfect for a cold winter day. This recipe combines the earthy flavors of cabbage, turnips, carrots, and potatoes with the smoky richness of bacon to create a comforting and satisfying meal. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete and nutritious meal. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The memory of discovering this recipe is still vivid in my mind. It was a cold winter day, and I was visiting my dear friend Greta in Germany. Greta was an amazing cook, and she had invited me over for lunch. As I entered her cozy kitchen, I was enveloped in the warm, comforting aroma of simmering vegetables and spices.

Greta greeted me with a smile and a hug, and she told me that she was making Kohlsuppe, a traditional German cabbage soup. I had never heard of Kohlsuppe before, but as I watched Greta expertly chop the vegetables and season the broth, I knew that I had to learn how to make it myself.

As we sat down to enjoy our delicious meal, I asked Greta to teach me the recipe for Kohlsuppe. She was more than happy to share her knowledge with me, and as she explained the ingredients and cooking process, I felt inspired and eager to try it out for myself.

Back home, I gathered all the necessary ingredients for Kohlsuppe. I chopped the cabbage, carrots, onions, and potatoes with care, just as Greta had shown me. I seasoned the broth with bay leaves, thyme, and a touch of vinegar, and I let the soup simmer on the stove, filling my kitchen with the same comforting aroma that I had experienced in Greta's kitchen.

As I ladled the steaming soup into bowls and garnished it with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh parsley, I felt a sense of pride and accomplishment. The Kohlsuppe turned out just as delicious as Greta's, and I knew that I had found a new favorite recipe to add to my repertoire.

Over the years, I have made Kohlsuppe many times for my family and friends, each time receiving rave reviews and requests for the recipe. I have tweaked and adjusted the recipe to suit my own tastes, adding a pinch of paprika here, a splash of white wine there, but the essence of the dish remains true to Greta's original recipe.

I have shared the recipe for Kohlsuppe with countless people, passing on the tradition and the flavors of this comforting soup to the next generation. I have taught my grandchildren how to make it, just as Greta taught me, and I hope that they will continue to cherish and enjoy this recipe for years to come.

As I sit here, savoring a steaming bowl of Kohlsuppe on a chilly winter day, I am filled with gratitude for the wonderful friends and mentors who have enriched my life with their culinary wisdom. The memory of discovering this recipe with Greta will always hold a special place in my heart, a reminder of the joy and connection that food can bring to our lives. And as I take another spoonful of the savory soup, I am reminded once again of the power of a shared meal to bring us together and create lasting memories.

Categories

| Bacon Recipes | Carrot Recipes | Chicken Stock And Broth Recipes | German Recipes | German Soups | Green Cabbage Recipes | Potato Recipes |

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