russian cabbage soup recipe

The Best russian cabbage soup recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite Russian Cabbage Soup recipe, a traditional dish that has been a staple in many Eastern European households for centuries. This hearty soup is made with tender cabbage, onions, carrots, and potatoes in a rich beef broth. The flavors are deep and satisfying, with a subtle sweetness from the carrots and a tanginess from the cabbage.

I love serving this soup to my family and friends because it’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. My kids adore helping me in the kitchen, especially when we get to chop up the vegetables together – it’s a great way to teach them about where food comes from and how it’s prepared. As for me, I appreciate the simplicity of this recipe – it’s one of those rare dishes that requires minimal ingredients but yields maximum flavor.

Plus, it’s perfect for any occasion: whether you’re looking for a comforting meal on a chilly day or want something nourishing after a long week of work, this soup fits the bill. And did I mention how good it is for you? With all those veggies packed into one pot, you can feel good about what you’re feeding your loved ones.

So go ahead and give this recipe a try – I promise you won’t be disappointed! The technique of cooking the cabbage until it’s tender but still retains some crunch is key to this recipe’s success. It’s not too hard to achieve, but it does take some patience – trust me, it’s worth it.

Now that I’ve shared my enthusiasm with you, I hope you’ll join me in making this delicious soup for your own family gatherings.

Russian Cabbage Soup

4.9 from 1771 votes

This hearty Russian cabbage soup, known as shchi, is a comforting classic made with fresh cabbage, potatoes, carrots, and a rich tomato broth. It is a simple and nourishing dish that is perfect for cold days, with a tangy and savory flavor that develops as it simmers.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time40 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time55 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 220 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Soup

1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 carrots, peeled and diced
1 celery stalk, diced
4 cups beef or vegetable broth
3 cups water
1 small head green cabbage, shredded (about 6 cups)
3 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
2 bay leaves
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon salt, plus more to taste
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon white vinegar or lemon juice, to taste

For Serving

Sour cream
Fresh dill, chopped

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
3Add the beef or vegetable broth, water, shredded cabbage, cubed potatoes, and bay leaves to the pot.
4Bring the soup to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer partially covered for 20 minutes.
5Stir in the tomato paste, salt, and black pepper.
6Continue to simmer for another 15 to 20 minutes, until the potatoes and cabbage are tender and easily pierced with a fork.
7Remove the bay leaves from the soup.
8Stir in the vinegar or lemon juice, starting with one tablespoon and adding more to taste for a pleasant tangy flavor.
9Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
10Serve hot, topped with a spoonful of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh dill.

🔧Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 220 kcal🧈Total Fat: 7g💛Saturated Fat: 1g❤️Cholesterol: 0mg🧂Sodium: 780mg🌾Total Carbs: 34g🥦Dietary Fiber: 7g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 7g

📝Notes

For a richer flavor, use beef broth and add a piece of beef shank or brisket while simmering, then shred the meat before serving. The soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. You can also add a can of white beans for extra protein and heartiness.

Watch Video Of How Russian Cabbage Soup Works

This Russian Cabbage Soup recipe has been a staple in our household for years – its comforting flavors never fail to hit the spot after a long day. One of my favorite ways to serve it is with some crusty bread on the side (or even better, some homemade rye bread).

For an added treat, try adding some crumbled bacon bits on top – trust me, it makes all the difference! When storing leftovers (which rarely happens), make sure to label them clearly so everyone knows what they’re getting themselves into when they grab that container from the fridge.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Russian Cabbage Soup

What type of cabbage should I use?

For this recipe, I recommend using green cabbage – its milder flavor pairs perfectly with the beef broth and other ingredients. You can also use red cabbage if you prefer a slightly sweeter taste.

Can I substitute beef broth with chicken or vegetable broth?

While beef broth gives this soup its signature flavor, you can definitely experiment with other broths if you prefer or have dietary restrictions. Just keep in mind that chicken broth might add an extra richness to the soup while vegetable broth will result in a lighter taste.

How do I store leftover cabbage soup?

To preserve its flavor and texture, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months. When reheating, make sure to heat it gently over low heat so as not to damage the delicate vegetables.

Can I add other ingredients like meat or beans?

This is where the beauty of Russian Cabbage Soup lies – its versatility! Feel free to add your favorite protein sources like ground beef or pork or legumes like kidney beans or black beans. Just be mindful of their textures and cooking times when incorporating them into your soup.

Why does my cabbage soup turn out too thick?

A common issue when making Russian Cabbage Soup is that it becomes too thick due to excess starch from the potatoes or carrots. To avoid this, try adding more water or broth during cooking – about 1 cup at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

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