Hearty Cabbage Borscht: Classic Comfort Soup Recipe

Cabbage Borscht Recipe: A Comforting and Nutritious One-Dish Meal

Recipe Overview

• Name: Cabbage Borscht

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• Description: This deliciously hearty borscht is a perfect warming dish for cold days. With a base of cabbage and potatoes, this soup is not only filling but also nutritious. Accompanied by a bun or crusty bread, it becomes a comforting and wholesome meal. This particular recipe, passed down through handwritten notes, boasts simplicity and traditional flavors, making it a cherished addition to any meal plan.

• Cook Time: 1 hour

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

• Servings: 12

• Calories: 130.8 per serving

Category & Keywords

• Recipe Category: One Dish Meal
• Keywords: Potato, Vegetable, Canadian, Low Protein, Low Cholesterol, Healthy, Weeknight, < 4 Hours

Ingredients

The ingredients are simple yet come together to create a rich and flavorful borscht. Here’s what you need:

1. Water: 9 cups
2. Spanish Onion: 1 large, finely chopped
3. Carrot: 1 large, peeled and grated
4. Cabbage: 1 medium head, shredded
5. Potatoes: 2 medium, peeled and diced
6. Tomato Juice: 1 cup
7. Tomatoes: 1 large, chopped
8. Sugar: ½ tablespoon
9. White Vinegar: ½ tablespoon
10. Butter: 2 tablespoons
11. Bay Leaves: 2 whole
12. Caraway Seed: ½ teaspoon
13. Parsley: 2 tablespoons, finely chopped

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 130.8 kcal
• Fat: 2.2 g
• Saturated Fat: 1.3 g
• Cholesterol: 5.1 mg
• Sodium: 175.3 mg
• Carbohydrates: 26.6 g
• Fiber: 4.7 g
• Sugars: 16 g
• Protein: 3.2 g

Instructions

Follow these detailed steps to make your Cabbage Borscht:

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, combine 9 cups of water, 1 large finely chopped Spanish onion, 1 large peeled and grated carrot, 1 medium shredded head of cabbage, and 2 medium peeled and diced potatoes. Add 1 cup of tomato juice, 1 large chopped tomato, ½ tablespoon of sugar, ½ tablespoon of white vinegar, 2 tablespoons of butter, 2 whole bay leaves, and ½ teaspoon of caraway seed.

2. Bring to a Boil: Place the pot over high heat and bring the mixture to a boil.

3. Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 1 hour. This allows the vegetables to become tender and the flavors to meld together beautifully.

4. Season: After 1 hour, season the borscht generously with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Refrigerate: For best flavor, let the soup sit overnight in the refrigerator. This resting period allows the flavors to develop and intensify.

6. Reheat and Serve: Before serving, remove the bay leaves from the soup. Reheat the borscht on the stove until warmed through. Garnish with finely chopped parsley and serve hot, accompanied by a bun or crusty bread.

7. Freeze: This borscht freezes well, so consider making a large batch and storing it in individual portions for quick and easy meals later.

Tips for Success

• Fresh Vegetables: Use fresh, high-quality vegetables to ensure the best flavor.
• Tomatoes: If fresh tomatoes are not available, canned diced tomatoes can be used as a substitute.
• Flavor Development: Allowing the borscht to sit overnight truly enhances its flavor. Do not skip this step for the most robust taste.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might find you want a little more salt or a dash of pepper.

Variations

• Meat Addition: For a heartier version, you can add pieces of cooked beef or sausage.
• Spice It Up: If you like a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Herb Substitutes: Dill or thyme can be used instead of parsley for a different herbal note.

Serving Suggestions

• With Bread: Serve with a hearty bread like a rye or pumpernickel to soak up the rich broth.
• Topped with Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream on top adds a creamy contrast to the tangy soup.
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs well and adds a refreshing crunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comforting: This borscht is perfect for cold weather or when you’re craving something warm and satisfying.
• Nutritious: Packed with vegetables, it’s a healthy option that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
• Make-Ahead: The flavor improves as it sits, making it an excellent dish to prepare in advance.
• Versatile: Easy to adapt with additional ingredients or spices to suit your preferences.

Conclusion

Cabbage Borscht is a traditional soup that brings warmth and nourishment in every spoonful. Its blend of simple vegetables and spices creates a rich, savory flavor that is both satisfying and healthy. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or as a make-ahead meal for busy days, this recipe will surely become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy this comforting dish with your favorite bread, and savor the timeless taste of a beloved classic.