Craving a quick, healthy, and flavorful meal that's both satisfying and surprisingly simple? Look no further! This sweet and sour cabbage soup recipe is your answer. It's a fantastic example of how homemade cooking can be both delicious and easy, perfect for busy weeknights or a light lunch. This recipe delivers a vibrant blend of sweet and tangy flavors, making it a delicious addition to your repertoire of healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Get ready to experience a taste sensation!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 medium green cabbage, shredded (about 4 cups)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar (or maple syrup for a healthier option)
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. This step builds the flavor base of our delicious dish.
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Add the cabbage and garlic: Stir in the shredded cabbage and minced garlic. Cook for another 3-5 minutes, until the cabbage begins to wilt. Don't be afraid to pack the cabbage in – it will reduce in volume as it cooks.
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Simmer the soup: Pour in the vegetable broth, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, soy sauce, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
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Season and serve: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed – you might want more vinegar for extra tang or more brown sugar for added sweetness. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley before serving.
Cooking Tips for the Best Sweet and Sour Cabbage Soup:
- For a thicker soup: If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mash some of the cooked cabbage against the side of the pot before serving.
- Add protein: Boost the protein content by adding cooked chicken, sausage, or chickpeas during the last 5 minutes of simmering. This transforms it into a heartier meal.
- Adjust the sweetness and sourness: Feel free to adjust the amount of brown sugar and apple cider vinegar to your liking. Start with the recipe amounts and then tweak to your preference.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Make a big batch and enjoy leftovers for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
Variations:
- Spicy Sweet and Sour Cabbage Soup: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño pepper for extra heat.
- Apple Sweet and Sour Cabbage Soup: Add 1/2 cup of diced apple along with the other vegetables for a sweeter and fruitier flavor.
- Hearty Sweet and Sour Cabbage Soup: Include other vegetables like potatoes, green beans, or mushrooms for added nutrition and texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on ingredients and portion size)
This delicious and easy recipe is perfect for those seeking simple yet flavorful food recipes. Whether you are a beginner cook or an experienced chef, this sweet and sour cabbage soup is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, offering a wholesome and satisfying meal. Enjoy!