Beet and Cabbage Soup Recipe

This beet and cabbage soup is a vibrant and hearty dish, perfect for warming up on a chilly day. With its rich, earthy flavors and vibrant color, this soup is as pleasing to the eyes as it is to the taste buds. The combination of tender potatoes, fresh cabbage, and sweet beets makes for a nutritious meal that is both filling and satisfying. Additional layers of flavor come from carrots, onions, and apples, adding a touch of sweetness and tang. Canned beans provide extra protein, making this a wholesome, balanced dish. It's a simple soup to prepare but delivers a complex flavor profile rich in spices and herbs, perfect for a leisurely family dinner or a cozy night in. Serve it with garlic croutons for an added crunch and enjoy the comforting, aromatic experience it brings.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

5 potatoes (softening when cooked)
300 g fresh cabbage
2 beets
2 carrots
2 onions
200 g canned beans
2 sour apples

Spices and Herbs:

Pepper
Bay leaves
Fresh herbs
Dried spices

Other:

Water

Preparation Time

Total: 40 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Chop the cabbage finely and place it in a pot with enough water to cover. Bring it to a simmer.
Meanwhile, peel and dice the potatoes, then add them to the pot once the cabbage begins to soften.
Peel the beets and carrots, then grate them or finely chop them along with the onions.
Heat a pan with a splash of oil. Sauté the onions, beets, and carrots until they begin to soften and release their juices.
Cover and simmer the vegetables on low heat until tender, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Once the cabbage and potatoes are soft, add the sautéed vegetables from the pan into the pot.
Stir in the canned beans and finely grated sour apples for a hint of sweetness and acidity.
Add the bay leaves, pepper, and any dried spices of your choice to enhance the flavor.
Simmer gently for about 10 minutes, allowing the spices to infuse the soup.
Finish with a generous handful of chopped fresh herbs for a burst of color and freshness.

Tip: Serve the soup hot with a side of crisp garlic croutons for added texture.

Tips

Substitute fresh vegetables: Use frozen or pre-cut vegetables to save time.
Add protein: For a heartier dish, add cooked shredded chicken or beef.
Try different spices: Experiment with coriander or cumin for varied flavors.

Nutrition

Calories: Approximately 250 per serving
Protein: 8g
Fats: 2g
Carbohydrates: 50g

Variations

Vegan version: Ensure all ingredients, such as spices and croutons, are plant-based.
Spicy kick: Add chili flakes or sriracha for extra heat.
Low-carb option: Replace potatoes with cauliflower or turnips for fewer carbs.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with rustic bread for a wholesome meal.
Garnish with sour cream or yogurt for added creaminess.
Enjoy alongside a light green salad for a complete lunch.

Best Places

Borscht Delight Cafe - Renowned for its authentic beet-based soups. Location: 23 Goulburn St, Sydney, Australia.
Soup & Co. Bistro - Serves hearty European-style soups and stews. Location: 12 Rue Gambetta, Paris, France.
Red Beet Cafe - This cafe offers a wide range of beetroot dishes. Location: 100 Granville St, Vancouver, Canada.
Eastern Flavors - Known for its flavorful Eastern European cuisine. Location: Tverskaya Ulitsa, 56, Moscow, Russia.
Cabbage Patch Diner - Features traditional homemade soups. Location: 43 John St, New York, USA.
Nordic Nook - Offers cozy, homestyle dishes in a warm setting. Location: 14 Akersgata, Oslo, Norway.
The Soup Bar - Specializes in unique and creative soup combinations. Location: 8 High St, Prague, Czech Republic.
Veggie Garden Grill - Ideal for health-focused soups and salads. Location: Calle de la Paz, 12, Madrid, Spain.
Borscht Lane - Brings a touch of tradition with a modern twist. Location: 9 King St, London, UK.
Beet & Bacon Tapas - An innovative take on classic recipes. Location: Unter den Linden 5, Berlin, Germany.