I’ve been making this cabbage and ham soup recipe for years, and it’s a staple in our household. It’s a classic comfort food that never fails to warm our hearts and bellies. I first tried this recipe at my grandmother’s house when I was a kid.
She would simmer the cabbage and ham in a big pot on the stovetop for hours, filling the entire house with its savory aroma. The smell alone was enough to make me feel like I was in for a treat. As I grew older, I began to appreciate the simplicity and depth of flavors in this recipe.
It’s a perfect combination of tender cabbage, smoky ham, and rich broth that never fails to satisfy. My family loves it just as much as I do, and it’s often the first thing they ask for when they come over for dinner or on special occasions. We’ve even made it for potlucks and gatherings, where it’s always a crowd-pleaser.
What I love most about this recipe is how easily it can be adapted to suit any occasion or dietary need. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal after a long day or a comforting side dish for your next family gathering, this soup is sure to hit the spot. And let’s not forget about the health benefits – with plenty of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants packed into each serving, you can feel good about what you’re putting in your body.
So go ahead and give this recipe a try – I promise you won’t be disappointed! The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy families like mine.
Hearty Cabbage and Ham Soup
4.8 from 1750 votes
This comforting soup combines tender cabbage, smoky ham, and savory broth for a satisfying one-pot meal. It is simple to prepare and perfect for chilly days, using everyday ingredients for a rich and flavorful bowl.
1Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
3Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly.
5Then add the chopped cabbage and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage begins to wilt and reduce in volume.
6Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced ham, dried thyme, black pepper, and bay leaf.
7Bring the soup to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together.
8Remove the bay leaf and discard it.
9Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt if needed, though the ham may be salty.
10Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
For a lighter version, use low-sodium chicken broth and trim excess fat from the ham. You can also add a can of drained white beans for extra heartiness. This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and freezes nicely for up to 3 months.
Watch Video Of How Hearty Cabbage and Ham Soup Works
This cabbage and ham soup recipe has become an integral part of our family traditions over the years – whether we’re celebrating holidays or just enjoying a cozy night at home together.
One of my favorite things about this recipe is how versatile it is; serve hot with some crusty bread on the side for dipping into that savory broth, or store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for longer storage.
Reheating is as simple as placing it back on low heat until warmed through again – then serve hot with some crusty bread on the side.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Hearty Cabbage and Ham Soup
Q: What type of cabbage is best for this recipe?
A: You can use either green or white cabbage for this recipe – both work well depending on your personal preference. If you want a milder flavor, green cabbage is the way to go; if you prefer a slightly sweeter taste, white cabbage is your best bet.
Q: Can I use leftover ham instead of fresh?
A: Yes, absolutely! In fact, using leftover ham can add an extra layer of flavor to the dish. Just be sure to chop it up finely so it distributes evenly throughout the soup.
Q: How long does it take to cook the cabbage?
A: Cooking time will depend on your stove’s heat output and the size of your pot – but generally speaking, you’ll want to simmer the cabbage for at least 30 minutes to an hour until it reaches your desired level of tenderness.
Q: Can I make this soup in advance?
A: Yes – in fact, making this soup ahead of time allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully. Simply refrigerate or freeze until ready to reheat.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians or vegans?
A: This recipe is not vegetarian-friendly due to the inclusion of ham; however, you can easily substitute with plant-based alternatives such as tofu or tempeh for a vegan version.
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