I’ve been making this cabbage soup with ham recipe for years, and it’s a staple in our household. It’s a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion. My family loves it, and I’m sure your family will too.
The best part about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences. The origins of this dish are unclear, but it’s likely an adaptation of traditional European recipes. The combination of tender cabbage, savory ham, and rich broth is a match made in heaven.
When I cook this soup, I like to use a variety of techniques to get the flavors just right. One key technique is to use a slow cooker to let the flavors meld together over time. This allows the cabbage to become incredibly tender and the broth to develop a depth of flavor that’s hard to achieve with quick cooking methods.
Another technique I like to use is adding in some acidity, such as a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice. This helps to cut through the richness of the broth and adds a brightness to the dish that’s essential for balance. When it comes to serving, I like to add some crusty bread on the side for dipping into the broth.
This is a great way to soak up all the delicious flavors and enjoy every last drop of the soup.
Cabbage Soup with Ham
4.9 from 1007 votes
A hearty and comforting soup made with tender cabbage, savory ham, and aromatic vegetables in a flavorful broth. This simple one-pot meal is perfect for chilly days and uses basic ingredients for a satisfying dinner.
1 medium head green cabbage (about 2 pounds), cored and chopped
2 bay leaves
2 cups diced cooked ham (about 10 ounces)
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Salt to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
👨🍳Directions
1Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat until shimmering.
2Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and lightly browned, about 5 to 7 minutes.
3Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
4Stir constantly for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
5Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes with their juices, then add the chopped cabbage and bay leaves.
6Bring the soup to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer uncovered for 20 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender but not mushy.
7Stir in the diced ham and apple cider vinegar.
8Continue to simmer for another 5 minutes to heat the ham through.
9Remove and discard the bay leaves, then taste and adjust seasoning with salt if needed.
10Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
11Serve immediately with crusty bread or crackers on the side.
For a thicker soup, mash some of the cooked cabbage against the side of the pot before adding the ham. Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days; the flavor improves overnight. You can substitute smoked turkey or kielbasa for the ham.
Watch Video Of How Cabbage Soup with Ham Works
This cabbage soup with ham recipe is always a good idea for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or just a weeknight dinner.
One thing I love about this recipe is that it’s so versatile – you can customize it however you like by adding your favorite ingredients or adjusting the seasoning.
As for storage and reheating ideas, you can store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Cabbage Soup with Ham
What type of cabbage should I use?
For this recipe, I recommend using green cabbage as it has a milder flavor and firmer texture than napa cabbage.
Can I use leftover ham?
Yes, you can use leftover ham in this recipe. Simply chop it up into small pieces and add it to the pot along with the other ingredients.
How long does this soup keep in the fridge?
This soup will keep in the fridge for up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup for up to 3 months when stored in an airtight container or freezer bag.
What if I don’t have any ham? Can I substitute with another protein source?
Yes, you can substitute ham with another protein source such as bacon or chicken. Simply cook and chop it up before adding it to the pot.
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