Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and incredibly flavorful dinner recipe? Look no further! This sweet and sour cabbage soup is a fantastic choice for a weeknight meal. It's packed with fresh vegetables, vibrant flavors, and a delightful tang that will leave you wanting more. This easy recipe is perfect for beginner cooks, yet satisfying enough for experienced culinary enthusiasts. It's a testament to how delicious and simple homemade cooking can be. Prepare to enjoy a truly satisfying and healthy meal!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 medium green cabbage, shredded
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey or maple syrup
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until softened. This step builds the flavor base of your soup.
Step 2: Add the Cabbage and Broth
Add the shredded cabbage to the pot and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until slightly wilted. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 3: Simmer and Season
Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender. Stir in the apple cider vinegar, honey (or maple syrup), soy sauce, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the sweet and sour cabbage soup hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley. This delicious and healthy meal is perfect on its own or served with a side of crusty bread.
Tips and Variations:
- For a thicker soup: Add a tablespoon or two of cornstarch mixed with a little cold water to the soup during the last few minutes of simmering.
- Add protein: Ground meat (beef, pork, or chicken) can be browned along with the onions, carrots, and celery for a heartier soup. Adding chickpeas or lentils also adds protein and fiber.
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preference, or add a dash of your favorite hot sauce.
- Make it vegan: Ensure your broth and soy sauce are vegan-friendly.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a healthy serving of vegetables and is relatively low in calories and fat. The exact nutritional information will vary depending on the specific ingredients used. However, a typical serving is expected to contain around 150-200 calories, with a good amount of fiber and vitamins.
This sweet and sour cabbage soup is a versatile and flavorful dish that can be easily customized to your liking. Its quick preparation time makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights, while its delicious taste makes it perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this healthy and satisfying meal!