Cabbage and Bean Soup is a hearty, nutritious dish that combines the earthy flavors of beans with the crispness of cabbage. This versatile Soup is not only easy to prepare but also allows for a variety of ingredients, making it a perfect option for both budget-conscious cooks and those looking to eat healthier. Packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals, this soup can serve as a filling main course or a light appetizer.
Cabbage and Bean Soup: Easy and Delicious Recipes
When the chill of winter settles in or when you’re simply craving comfort food, a steaming bowl of Cabbage and Bean Soup is the perfect remedy. This hearty and nutritious Soup is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavors and health benefits. In this blog post, we’ll explore everything you need to know about this delightful dish, including key ingredients, health benefits, serving suggestions, and much more!
What is in Cabbage and Bean Soup?
At its core, Cabbage and Bean Soup combines the earthy flavors of cabbage and beans with a medley of vegetables and aromatic herbs. Here’s a list of the essential ingredients you’ll need to whip up this comforting classic:
- Potatoes cut into small cubes: Add a satisfying thickness to your soup
- Cabbage chopped: The star of the show, providing a delicious crunch and a boost of vitamins
- Bay leaf: Adding a subtle, savory flavor
- Chicken stock and water: The base of the soup, providing a rich, velvety texture
- Salt to taste: Add a pinch of salt to bring out the flavors
- Beans (optional, drained and rinsed): Add protein and fiber for a filling meal
- Olive oil (for frying): Sauté your onions and garlic for added depth
- Onion chopped: Caramelize your onions for a sweet, savory flavor
- Sugar: Balance out the acidity with a hint of sweetness
- Carrot grated: Add a pop of color and extra nutrients
- Sauerkraut: Provide a tangy, sour taste and a boost of probiotics
- Pepper: Add a pinch of black pepper to taste
- Medium beetroot grated or diced: Add a sweet, earthy flavor
- Lemon juice: Brighten up your soup with a squeeze of citrus
- Tomato paste: Add a rich, intense tomato flavor
- Chopped garlic: Sauteed garlic adds a pungent, aromatic flavor
- Fresh parsley chopped: Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness
- Sour cream (optional for serving): Add a dollop of creaminess to your soup
Key Takeaways
Cabbage and Bean Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a hidden powerhouse of vitamins, proteins, and flavors. Here are some key takeaways:
- Nutrient-rich:Â Packed with fiber, vitamins C and K, and important minerals, this soup is beneficial for digestive health.
- Customizable:Â You can easily adjust the ingredients according to what you have on hand, making it an ideal dish for meal prep.
- Family-friendly: With its comforting texture and flavors, it’s a dish that everyone can enjoy.
Health Benefits
This soup is not just delicious; it’s also a great way to boost your health! Here are some of the benefits:
- Weight Management:Â Low in calories but high in fiber, this soup can help you feel full for longer.
- Heart Health:Â Ingredients like cabbage, beetroot, and beans are known to support cardiovascular health.
- Gut Health:Â The fiber from the vegetables and beans promotes a healthy digestive system.
Make Ahead and Storage Tips
Cabbage and Bean Soup is a great recipe to make ahead. Here are some tips for preparing and storing:
- Make Ahead:Â You can prepare it a day or two in advance. The flavors will deepen as it sits.
- Storage:Â Allow the soup to cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
- Reheat:Â To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or stock to loosen the consistency if necessary.
What to Serve with Cabbage and Bean Soup
Pair your Cabbage and Bean Soup with some crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh parsley and a dollop of sour cream can enhance the flavors even further.
Recommended Tools to Make This Recipe
To make your cooking experience smoother, consider having these tools handy:
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Sharp knife and cutting board
- Mixing spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle for serving
Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Cabbage and Bean Soup! Here are some variations:
- Vegetarian/Vegan:Â Use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock and skip the sour cream.
- Spicy: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick.
- Add Protein:Â For a heartier option, include diced chicken or turkey.
Serving Suggestions
For a delightful serving experience, consider garnishing your soup with:
- Fresh herbs like parsley or dill
- A squeeze of lemon juice for brightness
- A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess
Storing Leftovers
Storing leftovers is easy! Make sure the soup cools down before transferring it to a hermetic container. Label it with the date to keep track of freshness.
Helpful Tips
- Always taste your soup towards the end of cooking to adjust seasonings as needed.
- Adding a little sugar can balance the acidity of tomatoes and enhance the flavors.
- Consider adding a splash of vinegar for an extra depth of flavor.
Cabbage and Bean Soup is a delightful dish bursting with flavor, health benefits, and versatility. With these easy-to-follow instructions, you can create a comforting Soup that warms the soul and nourishes the body. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of this deliciousness.
More Delicious Soups to Try
- Black Bean and Tomato Soup
- Creamy Squash and Vegetable Soup
- Creamy Roasted Tomato Soup
- Vegetable and Cabbage Soup
Cabbage and Bean Soup
Cabbage and Bean Soup is a delightful way to enjoy a warm, nutritious meal its simplicity makes it an ideal candidate for weeknight dinners and it can easily be customized depending on personal taste, with extra spices or vegetables.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
For the Fried Vegetables
For Garnish
Instructions
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In a saucepan, combine the cubed potatoes, chopped cabbage, bay leaf, and chicken stock. After bringing to a boil, lower the heat so that it simmers.
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In a frying pan, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat.
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Add the chopped onion and sprinkle with sugar. Fry until the onion is transparent.
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Add the grated carrot and fry for an additional 2 minutes.
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Stir in the sauerkraut and pepper; sauté for another 2 minutes.
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Add the grated beetroot and lemon juice to the pan; cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Incorporate the tomato paste and fry for an additional 5 minutes until well mixed.
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Remove the bay leaf from the saucepan. Add the fried vegetable mixture to the saucepan with cabbage and potatoes.
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Put a lid on it and cook for ten minutes. After 10 minutes, add the beans, 300 ml of water, and salt to taste.
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Cover again and cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until all vegetables are tender.
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Once the vegetables are ready, stir in chopped garlic and parsley.
Adjust seasoning if necessary.
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Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a dollop of sour cream and additional parsley, if desired.
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Enjoy your hearty and nutritious vegetable soup.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 6 ServingCalories:188kcalTotal Fat:5gSaturated Fat: 0.9gSodium:1110mgPotassium:315mgTotal Carbohydrate:32gDietary Fiber: 4gSugars: 4gProtein:10gVitamin A: 3542IUVitamin C: 28mgCalcium: 114mgIron: 2mg
Note
Note 1: If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can easily substitute chicken stock with vegetable stock.
Note 2: You can use any type of beans you like, such as kidney beans, black beans, or even chickpeas, to add protein and texture.
Note 3: If you don't have sauerkraut or prefer a milder flavor, you can omit it or replace it with shredded cabbage.
Note 4: A splash of vinegar (in addition to the lemon juice) can add an extra zing.
