Discover the warm and comforting embrace of Russian cuisine with our delightful Cabbage Soup, known as Shchi! This hearty dish, brimming with vibrant vegetables and rich flavors, is not just a meal—it's a cozy experience that transports you straight to a rustic Russian kitchen. With just 60 minutes of your time, you can whip up a pot of this nourishing soup that serves up to 8 people, making it perfect for family gatherings or meal prep for the week. Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds and impress your loved ones? Let’s dive into the delicious world of Shchi!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 45 mins
Total Time: 60 mins
Cuisine: Russian
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, grated
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 potatoes, diced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all your ingredients. Chop the small head of cabbage, dice the potatoes, grate the carrots, and chop the onion. This will help streamline the cooking process.
- In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
- Add the grated carrots to the pot and continue to sauté for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until the carrots soften slightly.
- Next, add the chopped cabbage to the pot. Stir well to combine all the vegetables and let them cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the cabbage to wilt down.
- Once the cabbage has wilted, add the diced potatoes to the pot. Stir to incorporate everything together.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, ensuring that all the vegetables are submerged. If necessary, add a bit more broth or water to cover the vegetables completely.
- Stir in the tablespoon of tomato paste, mixing it thoroughly into the soup. This will give the soup a rich flavor and a slight tang.
- Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a pinch of each, and adjust according to your preference as the soup cooks.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- After 30 minutes, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If desired, you can add more tomato paste for extra flavor.
- Once the soup is ready, remove it from the heat and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
- Serve the cabbage soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your delicious homemade Russian Shchi!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To save time, chop all your vegetables and measure out your ingredients before you start cooking. This makes the process smoother and more enjoyable!
- Sauté for Flavor: Don’t rush the sautéing step! Taking the time to properly cook the onions and carrots will enhance the overall flavor of the soup.
- Customize Your Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables you have on hand, such as bell peppers or celery, to give the soup your personal touch.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Taste your soup as it simmers and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking. A little extra seasoning can elevate the dish significantly.
- Let It Rest: Allow the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking. This resting period helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Garnish for Presentation: Serve your Shchi with fresh herbs like dill or parsley for a pop of color and added freshness that enhances the dish's appeal.
- Storage Tips: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, and the flavors only get better! You can also freeze it for longer storage.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 75kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 3g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
