Ingredients with Measurements:
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 head of cabbage, chopped
- 4 cups of chicken broth
- 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 tsp of dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp of olive oil
Special equipment needed: None
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pot and set it aside.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the bacon grease. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the chopped cabbage to the pot and stir to combine with the onion and garlic. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the cabbage has softened.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes with their juice. Add the dried thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes until the cabbage is tender.
6. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the reserved bacon and cook for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
7. Serve the soup hot, topped with the bacon.
30-40 minutes
Temperature: Medium heat for cooking, low heat for simmering
Serving size: 4-6 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 215
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 16g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 9g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Turkey bacon can be used instead of regular bacon for a healthier option.
- Vegetable broth can be used instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian option.
- Fresh thyme can be used instead of dried thyme.
Variations:
- Add diced potatoes to the soup for a heartier meal.
- Use smoked paprika instead of thyme for a smoky flavor.
- Add a can of white beans to the soup for extra protein.
Tips and tricks:
- Make sure to chop the cabbage into small pieces for faster cooking.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove excess bacon grease from the pot before adding the onion and garlic.
- Adjust the salt and pepper to taste.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat the soup in a pot over medium heat until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve the soup in individual bowls with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley on top.
Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh parsley or chives.
Pairings:
- Crusty bread or garlic bread.
Suggested side dishes:
- Grilled cheese sandwich or Caesar salad.
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the soup is too thick, add more chicken broth or water to thin it out.
- If the soup is too thin, let it simmer for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure to cook the bacon until crispy to avoid any potential foodborne illnesses.
Food history:
- Cabbage soup is a traditional dish in many cultures, including Eastern Europe and Russia.
Flavor profiles:
- Savory, smoky, and slightly sweet.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve the soup hot with a slice of crusty bread on the side.
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