Glaude’s Cabbage Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 large head of cabbage, shredded
• 2 onions, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 potatoes, peeled and diced
• 4 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 can (400g) of diced tomatoes
• 1 can (400g) of white beans, drained and rinsed
• 1 liter (4 cups) of vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Olive oil for cooking
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Base:
   • In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions become translucent and the garlic is fragrant, setting the foundation for the soup’s flavors.
2. Add the Vegetables:
   • To the pot, add the shredded cabbage, sliced carrots, and diced potatoes. Stir well to ensure the vegetables are evenly coated with the oil and aromatics, allowing the flavors to start melding together.
3. Simmer the Soup:
   • Pour in the vegetable broth and add the bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Incorporate Beans and Tomatoes:
   • Add the diced tomatoes with their juices and the drained white beans to the pot. The tomatoes add a slight tang and richness, while the beans offer a wonderful creaminess and boost of protein.
5. Season and Simmer:
   • Season the soup with salt and pepper. Adjust the seasonings to your taste to ensure a well-balanced flavor profile. Allow the soup to simmer for another 5-10 minutes to let all the flavors fully combine.
6. Final Touches:
   • Before serving, remove the bay leaves to prevent any accidental chews on these non-edible leaves.
7. Serve:
   • Ladle the hot soup into bowls. If desired, garnish each serving with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
8. Enjoy:
   • Serve the soup hot, enjoying the deep, comforting flavors and the nourishing benefits of a hearty vegetable soup.

Additional Tips:

• For a Non-Vegetarian Version: Consider adding smoked sausage or bacon for added depth and a smoky flavor.
• Make It Creamy: For a creamier texture, stir in some heavy cream or sour cream towards the end of cooking.
• Storage: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in a microwave.

Health Benefits

Glaude’s Cabbage Soup isn’t just good; it’s good for you. Cabbage is packed with vitamins C and K, providing powerful antioxidants and anti-inflammatory benefits. White beans add a protein punch and fiber boost, making this soup filling and beneficial for digestive health. Carrots and potatoes bring in potassium and additional fiber, rounding out this dish as a nutrient powerhouse.

Easy to Customize

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable to different dietary preferences and available ingredients:

• Vegan-Friendly: Already suitable for vegetarians, it can easily be made vegan by ensuring the broth is vegetable-based and free of any animal products.
• Meat Lovers’ Twist: For an extra layer of flavor, add chunks of smoked sausage, bacon, or leftover rotisserie chicken.
• Creamier Version: Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream before serving, or blend part of the soup to thicken it naturally without dairy.

Cooking Tips

• Simmering Secrets: Let the soup simmer gently to allow the flavors to meld beautifully. The longer it simmers, the better the flavors develop.
• Fresh is Best: Use fresh vegetables for the best texture and flavor. However, this soup is also a great way to use up any vegetables that have been sitting in your fridge a bit too long.
• Herb Enhancements: Don’t shy away from adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary during the cooking process for an aromatic lift.

Serving Suggestions

• With Bread: Serve this hearty soup with a side of crusty bread to soak up all the delicious broth.
• As a Starter: Perfect as a starter for a larger meal, or it can stand alone as a light dinner.
• Toppings: Offer toppings like chopped parsley, grated cheese, or croutons for added texture and flavor.

Why This Recipe Works for Any Home Cook

• Prep & Go: Most of the cooking time is passive simmering, allowing you to prepare other meal components or simply relax.
• Meal Prep Magic: Make a big batch at the start of the week; it tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
• Freezer Friendly: Freeze in portions and thaw for a quick and easy meal that tastes freshly made.