Cabbage soup

Prepare yourself for a culinary journey that brings together the comforting flavors of bacon and cabbage in a warm and hearty soup. Our Bacon and Cabbage Soup recipe is the perfect dish for chilly evenings, lazy weekends, or whenever you’re in need of a nourishing and satisfying meal. Packed with wholesome ingredients and bursting with flavor, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Let’s dive into the delicious world of bacon-infused goodness!

Ingredients

• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large head cabbage, cored and sliced
• 1 tablespoon salt, or to taste
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/8 teaspoon paprika

Instructions

1. Cook the Bacon: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy and golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked bacon to a plate lined with paper towels, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In the same pot with the rendered bacon fat, add diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the Cabbage: Stir in the sliced cabbage, salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage begins to wilt and release its moisture, about 10 minutes.
4. Simmer the Soup: Pour in enough water or broth to cover the cabbage mixture. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, covered, for about 30 minutes or until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together.
5. Adjust Seasonings: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with the crispy bacon pieces. Serve immediately and enjoy the comforting flavors of bacon and cabbage in every spoonful.

Cook Notes and Variations

• Make It Vegetarian: Omit the bacon and use olive oil or butter for sautéing the onions and garlic. Add extra seasoning like smoked paprika or liquid smoke to enhance the flavor.
• Add Protein: Boost the protein content of the soup by adding cooked chicken, sausage, or white beans.
• Enhance the Flavor: Experiment with additional herbs and spices such as thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves for a more aromatic soup.
• Creamy Option: For a creamy twist, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk just before serving.

Keto and Low-Carb Versions

• Keto Version: This soup is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it suitable for keto diets. Just be mindful of the carb content in the bacon and adjust serving sizes accordingly.
• Low-Carb Version: Reduce the amount of onion used in the recipe and replace some of the cabbage with low-carb vegetables such as kale, spinach, or cauliflower.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon? Yes, you can substitute turkey bacon for regular bacon if you prefer a leaner option. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture may vary slightly.
2. How do I store leftover soup? Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or freeze for longer storage.
3. Can I make this soup in advance? Yes, this soup actually tastes better as the flavors develop over time. Simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
4. Can I add potatoes to the soup? While potatoes are not traditionally used in cabbage soup, you can certainly add them if you like. Just dice them into small pieces and cook them along with the cabbage until they are tender.
5. Is this soup gluten-free? Yes, this soup is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free bacon and check the labels on any other ingredients you add.

Bacon and Cabbage Soup is a comforting and satisfying dish that brings together simple ingredients to create a flavorful and nourishing meal. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner option or a hearty lunch to warm you up on a cold day, this soup fits the bill perfectly. With its rich flavors and comforting aroma, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. So grab a spoon, dig in, and savor the deliciousness of this classic soup recipe!

Indulge in the warmth and flavor of Bacon and Cabbage Soup, and let its comforting embrace soothe your soul with every spoonful. From its savory bacon to the tender cabbage, this soup is a true testament to the beauty of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together to create something truly delicious. So why wait? Whip up a batch today and experience the joy of homemade comfort food at its finest.