Cabbage Soup with Caraway

This delightful cabbage soup with caraway is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. It combines the earthy flavors of cabbage and carrots with the richness of smoked bacon, making for a hearty and warming meal. The gentle spice from caraway seeds adds an aromatic depth to the soup that tantalizes the taste buds. Perfect as a starter or a main course, this soup is easy to prepare with minimal ingredients. With a total preparation time of just 25 minutes, it's an excellent choice for a quick yet satisfying dish. Additionally, this soup is quite adaptable, making it suitable for various dietary adjustments. Serve it as a light lunch or pair it with crusty bread for a filling dinner. The addition of sour cream gives it a slightly tangy finish, and fresh herbs elevate the overall taste. This soup is sure to become a beloved staple in your recipe repertoire.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

• 200 g cabbage
• 2 potatoes
• 2 carrots
• 50 g smoked bacon
• 1 tsp wheat flour
• Water

Spices

• Salt
• Pepper
• 1 tsp caraway seeds

Preparation Time

Total Time: Approximately 25 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Start by grating the cabbage and carrots using a coarse grater. This will ensure they cook evenly and quickly.
2. Peel the potatoes and dice them into small cubes, ensuring uniform size for even cooking.
3. In a large pot, combine the grated cabbage, carrots, and diced potatoes.
4. Pour in two cups of water, or adjust based on how thick you prefer the soup.
5. Season the mixture with salt, pepper, and caraway seeds. Stir well.
6. Place the pot on medium heat and let it simmer for about 15 minutes.
7. While the soup base is cooking, take the smoked bacon and cut it into small pieces.
8. In a pan, fry the bacon pieces until they are crispy and golden brown.
9. Add the wheat flour to the pan with the bacon, stirring continuously to ensure it doesn't burn.
10. Allow the flour to brown slightly, developing a rich, nutty flavor.
11. Carefully add the bacon and flour mixture to the simmering soup.
12. Stir well to combine the ingredients and ensure the flour is fully incorporated.
13. Let the soup cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
14. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper.
15. Ladle the soup into serving bowls, ensuring an even distribution of vegetables and broth.
16. Add a dollop of sour cream to each bowl for a creamy texture and tangy flavor.
17. Garnish with freshly chopped herbs such as parsley or dill for added freshness.
18. Serve the soup hot with crusty bread or rolls on the side.
19. Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of the cabbage soup with family or friends.
20. Bon Appétit!

Tips

• Substitution: If you prefer, you can use vegetable broth instead of water for a richer flavor.
• Techniques: To thicken the soup, you can blend a small portion of it and then return it to the pot.
• Leftovers: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 150 per serving
• Protein: 5g
• Fats: 8g
• Carbohydrates: 15g

Variations

• Vegetarian: Skip the bacon and use olive oil instead for a vegetarian version.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of chili flakes for a hint of heat.
• Vegan: Replace sour cream with a vegan alternative for a vegan-friendly dish.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a slice of rye bread for a traditional touch.
• Garnish with extra caraway seeds for enhanced aroma.
• Serve alongside a light salad or pickles for a balanced meal.

Best Places

• Katz's Delicatessen - Known for their hearty soups and authentic flavors. Location: 205 E Houston St, New York, USA.
• La Soupé - Offers a wide range of wholesome soups, including cabbage varieties. Location: 22 Rue de l'Ecuyer, Brussels, Belgium.
• Zupa Soup Bar - A modern take on traditional soups with fresh ingredients. Location: 123 Queen St, Toronto, Canada.
• Suppli Factory - A cozy spot famous for Italian-inspired soups and stews. Location: Via della Madonna dei Monti, 88, Rome, Italy.
• Soup Shop - Serves creative and classic soup recipes with daily specials. Location: 78 Rue de Turenne, Paris, France.
• Soup Culture - Specializes in healthy, vegan-friendly soups. Location: Kohmuwuju, Hong Kong, China.
• Soup & More - A charming cafe with a vast selection of international soups. Location: Amstelveenseweg 116, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
• The Soup Spoon - An Asian fusion twist on soup classics. Location: Raffles City, Singapore.
• Soup En Zo - Popular for rich and flavorful soups made with seasonal ingredients. Location: Jodenbreestraat 94, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
• Soup Kitchen - Offers a variety of hearty soups in a cozy environment. Location: 263 Cannon St Rd, London, UK.