Delicious Cabbage Soup: A Comforting Family Favorite

Cabbage soup is a delicious and comforting dish that warms the soul. This hearty soup is easy to make, packed with flavor, and perfect for family meals. It’s delightful, nutritious, and sure to please even the pickiest eaters, making it a must-try recipe today!

Why Cabbage Soup is a Must-Try Recipe

Hearty and Comforting Flavor Profile

This cabbage soup boasts a hearty, smoky flavor, complemented by the sweetness of tender vegetables. Each spoonful delivers comforting warmth, making it perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a cozy meal. The crispy bacon adds a delightful crunch, creating a satisfying blend of textures.

Simple Ingredients for a Satisfying Meal

The beauty of this cabbage soup lies in its simplicity. You can whip it up quickly, using everyday ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. It’s a wonderful way to enjoy a wholesome meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

What You’ll Need for Cabbage Soup

Essential Ingredients and Their Roles

• Bacon: Adds a rich, smoky flavor.
• Onion: Provides sweetness and depth.
• Cabbage: The star of the soup, offering texture and nutrients.
• Potatoes: Contributes heartiness and creaminess.
• Carrot: Adds a subtle sweetness.
• Chicken stock: Forms the savory base.
• Bay leaf: Enhances the overall flavor.
• Seasonings: Bring all the flavors together.

Suggested Substitutions and Variations

If you’re looking for variations, consider using Irish back bacon for a unique twist. You can also add cream for extra richness or incorporate other vegetables like leeks or celery. For a vegetarian option, substitute the bacon with smoked paprika or sautéed mushrooms and use vegetable stock.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cabbage Soup

Cooking the Bacon to Perfection

Begin by chopping the bacon into small pieces. In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy, which takes about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon, leaving the flavorful fat in the pot.

Sautéing Vegetables for Maximum Flavor

Next, add the finely chopped onion to the pot. Cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the sliced carrot and continue cooking for an additional 2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

Simmering the Soup to Develop Richness

Now, add the diced potatoes and chopped cabbage to the pot. Season with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper. Cook for another 3-4 minutes, just until the vegetables begin to soften. Pour in 4 to 5 cups of chicken stock and toss in the bay leaf. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes until the potatoes and cabbage are tender.

Final Touches and Serving Suggestions

Once the vegetables are cooked, stir the crispy bacon back into the pot. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve in bowls, garnished with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and flavor.

Tips for Storing and Reheating Cabbage Soup

Best Practices for Refrigerating Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually improve over time, making it even more delicious on day two!

Freezing for Future Enjoyment

You can easily freeze this cabbage soup for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer containers. When you’re ready to enjoy it, just defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Creative Variations to Try

Adding Cream for Extra Richness

If you prefer a creamier soup, add a splash of heavy cream just before serving. It creates a luxurious texture that makes the soup even more indulgent.

Incorporating Different Vegetables

Feel free to experiment with different vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Zucchini, bell peppers, or green beans can add vibrant colors and flavors.

Vegetarian Alternatives for a Plant-Based Option

For a vegetarian-friendly version, skip the bacon and use a bit of smoked paprika to retain the smoky flavor. Pair it with vegetable stock for a completely plant-based dish that’s still hearty and satisfying.

FAQs

Related Recipes to try

• Corned Beef and Cabbage
• Corned Beef
• Crock Pot Corned Beef
• Irish Stew
• Irish Pub Recipes

Conclusion

This delicious cabbage soup is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings friends and family together. It’s simple enough for any weeknight and impressive enough for guests. Don’t forget to check out more delightful recipes on our Pinterest page for inspiration on your next culinary adventure!

Delicious Cabbage Soup

This comforting cabbage soup features crispy bacon and tender vegetables, making it a family favorite.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Course Dinner

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 250 kcal

Equipment

• large pot

Ingredients

  

• ½ lb bacon chopped
• onion finely chopped
• ½ head green cabbage chopped
• 2 medium potatoes diced (Yukon Gold or Russet)
• 1 carrot peeled and sliced thin
• 4 to 5 cups chicken stock
• 1 bay leaf
• Kosher salt to taste
• black pepper freshly cracked, to taste
• fresh parsley chopped, for garnish

Instructions

 

• Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy, then remove and set aside.
• Sauté the onion in the bacon fat for 3-4 minutes, then add the carrot and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
• Add the potatoes and cabbage, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 3-4 minutes.
• Pour in the chicken stock, add the bay leaf, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until tender.
• Stir in the bacon, adjust seasoning, and serve garnished with parsley.

Notes

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; the flavor improves over time. The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Variations include using Irish back bacon or adding cream.

Keyword cabbage soup, comfort food, family recipe, hearty soup