Dad'S Portuguese Sopas (Meat Soup)
Dad's Portuguese Sopas is a hearty, comforting meat and cabbage soup infused with aromatic spices, garlic, and fresh mint. Served with slices of sweet French bread, it offers rich flavors perfect for family gatherings or cold evenings, combining tender beef with a flavorful broth and vegetable goodness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bring water to a boil in a large pot. Add the chuck roast, spices tied in cheesecloth, wine, chopped onion, tomato sauce (if using), sprigs of fresh mint, and salt. Cover and cook until the meat is tender, about 3 hours.
- Add sliced cabbage to the pot and cook until the cabbage is tender.
- Place slices of sweet French bread and a sprig of mint on top in a deep serving dish.
- Pour the hot broth and cabbage over the bread and mint.
- Remove the cooked meat from the pot and serve it on a separate platter.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal tenderness, choose a well-marbled chuck roast and allow it to simmer gently. If you don't have pickling spices, a mix of mustard seeds, coriander, and bay leaf can work as a substitute. If you're short on time, consider using a pressure cooker to significantly reduce cooking time while still achieving that rich flavor. Fresh mint adds a delightful touch, but it can be omitted if unavailable.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty soup with slices of sweet French bread, which soak up the flavorful broth beautifully. A side salad with a light vinaigrette can complement the richness of the soup. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a simple roasted vegetable dish or browse more vegan recipes for lighter options.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of water if it has thickened. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dad'S Portuguese Sopas (Meat Soup) contains roughly 200 calories, with 5g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (12% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (12% of the Daily Value), and protein (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1127mg per serving (49% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different cut of meat for this recipe?
Yes, while chuck roast is ideal for its flavor and tenderness, other cuts like brisket or even pork shoulder can work well. Just ensure that the meat has enough fat to keep it moist during the long cooking process.
Is it necessary to add cabbage to the soup?
Cabbage is optional but adds great texture and flavor. If you prefer a lighter soup or want to skip it, you can omit the cabbage or substitute it with other greens like kale or spinach, which can be added towards the end of cooking.
What can I serve with the soup besides bread?
In addition to sweet French bread, consider serving this soup with a side of pickled vegetables or a light coleslaw. A fresh fruit salad can also provide a nice contrast to the richness of the soup.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).