Lithuanian-style Cabbage Soup
Lithuanian-style Cabbage Soup Recipe - Hearty and Flavorful
Introduction
Lithuanian-style Cabbage Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for a cold winter day. This soup is packed with flavor and is sure to warm you up from the inside out.
History
Cabbage soup has been a staple in Lithuanian cuisine for centuries. It is a simple and affordable dish that is often made with ingredients that are readily available in the region. This soup is often enjoyed during the winter months when fresh produce is scarce.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of fresh cabbage, shredded
- 1 envelope of onion soup mix
- 1 large can of chicken broth
- 0.5 bay leaf
- 8 whole black peppers
- 0.25 cup of catsup
How to prepare
- Combine the above ingredients and bring them to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to a low simmer.
- Cook for approximately 0.5 hour (check the cabbage, it should be firm but cooked).
- Add salt if needed at this stage.
Variations
- Add some diced potatoes for a heartier soup.
- Use beef broth instead of chicken broth for a richer flavor.
- Add some smoked sausage for a different twist on this classic recipe.
Cooking Tips & Tricks
Be sure to shred the cabbage thinly to ensure that it cooks evenly.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences. You can add more salt, pepper, or even some paprika for extra flavor.
- For a richer broth, you can use homemade chicken broth instead of a canned version.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this soup with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh dill for added flavor. Pair it with some crusty bread for a complete meal.
Cooking Techniques
This soup is best cooked on a low simmer to allow the flavors to meld together. Be sure to check the cabbage for doneness before serving.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don't have onion soup mix, you can use a combination of dried onion flakes, garlic powder, and salt as a substitute.
Make Ahead Tips
This 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
Garnish this soup with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color. Serve it in a rustic bowl for a cozy and inviting presentation.
Pairing Recommendations
This soup pairs well with a crisp green salad or some pickled vegetables for a balanced meal. A glass of white wine or a cold beer also complements the flavors of this dish.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through.
Nutrition Information
Calories per serving
Each serving of Lithuanian-style Cabbage Soup contains approximately 150 calories.
Carbohydrates
The carbohydrates in this soup mainly come from the cabbage and onion soup mix. Each serving contains approximately 20 grams of carbohydrates.
Fats
There is minimal fat in this soup, with most of it coming from the chicken broth. Each serving contains approximately 2 grams of fat.
Proteins
The protein in this soup comes from the chicken broth. Each serving contains approximately 5 grams of protein.
Vitamins and minerals
Cabbage is a great source of vitamins K and C, as well as fiber. This soup is also rich in antioxidants and other essential nutrients.
Alergens
This soup may contain allergens such as gluten from the onion soup mix. Be sure to check the ingredients for any potential allergens before consuming.
Summary
Overall, this soup is a healthy and nutritious option that is low in calories and fat. It is a great way to get your daily dose of vitamins and minerals.
Summary
Lithuanian-style Cabbage Soup is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a cold winter day. Packed with flavor and nutrients, this soup is sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation. Enjoy!
How did I get this recipe?
I remember the sense of anticipation I felt when I first discovered this recipe for Lithuanian-style Cabbage Soup. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl, eager to learn the art of cooking from my grandmother. She was a master in the kitchen, with a talent for turning simple ingredients into delicious meals that warmed the soul.
One day, as I watched her prepare dinner, she pulled out a worn and tattered recipe card from a box filled with handwritten notes. She told me that this recipe had been passed down through generations of our family, originating from our Lithuanian ancestors. As she read through the ingredients and instructions, I could see the love and pride in her eyes.
The key to making this soup, she explained, was in the slow simmering of the cabbage and vegetables, allowing the flavors to meld together and create a rich and hearty broth. She showed me how to carefully chop the cabbage into thin strips, and how to sauté it with onions and garlic until it was tender and fragrant.
Next, she added diced potatoes, carrots, and tomatoes, along with a handful of fresh herbs from her garden. She poured in a generous amount of homemade chicken broth, seasoned with salt, pepper, and a touch of vinegar for a bit of tanginess. Then, she covered the pot and let it simmer on the stove for hours, stirring occasionally and tasting to adjust the seasoning.
As the soup cooked, the aroma filled the kitchen, making my mouth water with anticipation. I could hardly wait to taste the final result, knowing that it would be a comforting and nourishing meal that would warm me from the inside out.
When the soup was finally ready, my grandmother ladled it into bowls and garnished it with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh dill. She handed me a spoon and watched with a smile as I took my first bite, savoring the flavors of the cabbage, potatoes, and herbs that had simmered together to create a truly delicious dish.
From that moment on, I knew that this recipe would become one of my favorites, a go-to meal for chilly winter nights or lazy Sunday afternoons. I made it for my own family, passing down the tradition of Lithuanian-style Cabbage Soup to future generations, just as my grandmother had done for me.
Now, whenever I make this soup, I am transported back to that day in my grandmother's kitchen, surrounded by the warmth and love that she poured into every meal she made. It is a reminder of the power of food to connect us to our heritage and our loved ones, and a testament to the enduring legacy of family recipes that bring us together around the table.
Categories
| Cabbage Recipes | Chicken Stock And Broth Recipes | Lithuanian Recipes | Lithuanian Soups | Onion Soup Mix Recipes |