Lithuanian Cabbage Soup
Lithuanian Cabbage Soup Recipe - Traditional Hearty Dish
Introduction
Lithuanian Cabbage Soup, also known as "Kapu sriuba," is a traditional dish that is popular in Lithuania. This hearty and flavorful soup is made with a combination of cabbage, sauerkraut, carrots, and tomatoes, simmered in a savory broth. It is a comforting and satisfying dish that is perfect for cold winter days.
History
Cabbage soup has been a staple in Lithuanian cuisine for centuries. It is a dish that has been passed down through generations, with each family adding their own unique twist to the recipe. Cabbage soup is often served at family gatherings, celebrations, and holidays, and is a beloved comfort food in Lithuania.
Ingredients
Broth
Vegetables
- 2 grated carrots
- 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 can (1 lb (454 g)) of drained and washed sauerkraut
- 1 can of whole tomatoes
How to prepare
- Simmer the ingredients for the broth for 1 hour.
- Add the carrots, cabbage, sauerkraut, and tomatoes.
- Simmer for 0.5 hour.
- Serve with rye bread.
Variations
- Omit carrots and tomatoes and add 1 can of cream of mushroom soup.
- Add some chopped potatoes to make the soup more filling.
- Use different types of cabbage, such as red cabbage or savoy cabbage, for a different flavor.
- Experiment with different herbs and spices, such as caraway seeds or paprika, to add depth to the soup.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
To enhance the flavor of the soup, consider adding some smoked meat or sausage to the broth.
- For a vegetarian version, you can omit the meat and use vegetable broth instead.
- Be sure to taste and adjust the seasoning of the soup before serving, adding more salt or pepper if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh dill on top. Enjoy with a slice of rye bread on the side.
Cooking Techniques
Simmer the soup slowly to allow the flavors to develop.
- Stir the soup occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
Ingredient Substitutions
Use vegetable broth instead of soup stock for a vegetarian version.
- Substitute the sauerkraut with fresh cabbage if desired.
Make Ahead Tips
This soup 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
Serve the soup in a rustic bowl with a garnish of fresh herbs on top. Pair with a slice of rye bread for a complete meal.
Pairing Recommendations
This soup pairs well with a crisp green salad or a side of pickles. Enjoy with a glass of cold beer or a glass of chilled white wine.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Calories: 150 per serving
Carbohydrates
Carbohydrates: 25g per serving
Fats
Fats: 2g per serving
Proteins
Proteins: 5g per serving
Vitamins and minerals
This soup is rich in Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and Vitamin A, as well as minerals such as potassium and calcium.
Alergens
This recipe may contain gluten from the rye bread served with the soup.
Summary
Lithuanian Cabbage Soup is a nutritious and low-calorie dish that is rich in vitamins and minerals. It is a great option for a healthy and satisfying meal.
Summary
Lithuanian Cabbage Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for cold winter days. This hearty soup is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it a great option for a healthy and satisfying meal. Enjoy with a slice of rye bread and a dollop of sour cream for a traditional Lithuanian experience.
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the joy I felt when I first stumbled upon this recipe for Lithuanian Cabbage Soup. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in a small village in Lithuania. My grandmother, who was known for her delicious cooking, had a friend who shared this recipe with her. And lucky for me, my grandmother decided to pass it on to me.
I can still picture the day like it was yesterday. It was a crisp autumn afternoon, the leaves were beginning to change colors and fall from the trees. My grandmother and I were in her cozy kitchen, surrounded by the comforting aroma of simmering soups and stews. She handed me a tattered piece of paper with the recipe scrawled in her elegant handwriting.
"This is a special recipe, my dear," she said with a twinkle in her eye. "It has been passed down through generations in our family. Take good care of it."
I eagerly studied the recipe, taking in every detail. The ingredients were simple yet wholesome – cabbage, potatoes, carrots, onions, and a few other pantry staples. The method of preparation was equally straightforward, but I could tell that it required patience and attention to detail.
As I set out to make the soup for the first time, I followed the recipe to the letter. I chopped the vegetables with care, taking my time to ensure that each piece was uniform in size. I sautéed the onions until they were golden and fragrant, then added the cabbage, allowing it to wilt and release its sweet aroma. The potatoes and carrots went in next, followed by a generous amount of vegetable broth.
As the soup simmered on the stove, I felt a sense of anticipation building within me. I stirred the pot occasionally, watching as the flavors melded together and the vegetables softened to perfection. Finally, after what felt like hours but was only a mere 45 minutes, the soup was ready.
I ladled a generous portion into a bowl and took a hesitant sip. The flavors exploded on my tongue – savory, tangy, and comforting all at once. It was a symphony of tastes that transported me back to my childhood, to the cozy kitchen of my grandmother's house.
From that day on, Lithuanian Cabbage Soup became a staple in my cooking repertoire. I made it for family gatherings, for friends, and even for myself on cold winter nights when all I craved was a bowl of warm, comforting soup. Each time I prepared it, I could feel the love and tradition that went into every spoonful.
Over the years, I have made a few tweaks to the original recipe, adding my own personal touch here and there. Sometimes I'll sprinkle a bit of dill on top for a fresh, herby kick. Other times, I'll throw in some smoked sausage for a hearty, meaty flavor. But no matter how I choose to customize it, the essence of the soup remains the same – a taste of home, of family, of tradition.
And as I sit here now, in my own cozy kitchen, I can't help but feel grateful for that fateful day when I first stumbled upon the recipe for Lithuanian Cabbage Soup. It has brought me so much joy and comfort over the years, and I know that it will continue to do so for many more to come.
Categories
| Cabbage Recipes | Canned Mushroom Soup Recipes | Carrot Recipes | Lithuanian Recipes | Lithuanian Soups | Sauerkraut Recipes | Tomato Recipes |