German Style Vegetable Soup
A hearty German-style vegetable soup featuring tender beef, cabbage, carrots, potatoes, and tomatoes, perfect for comforting family meals or cold weather gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put meat, onions, celery, salt, and pepper in a large soup pot. Cover with water 1 to 2 inches above the contents and cook (covered) over medium heat for 1½ to 2 hours or until the meat is tender. Add water as necessary.
- Add chopped cabbage and canned tomatoes (cut up the tomatoes) and continue to cook for about 1 hour or until the cabbage is soft.
- In separate pots, cook carrots and potatoes until soft (not mushy).
- Add the cooked carrots, potatoes, and tomato juice to the soup and simmer until hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider browning the meat before adding the vegetables. You can substitute beef cubes with lamb or chicken for a different taste. If you prefer a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and replace the meat with hearty beans or lentils. Adding herbs like thyme or bay leaves can enhance the flavor profile. Make sure to adjust the seasoning after adding the tomato juice, as it can alter the soup's overall taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with a crusty bread or a light salad dressed with English Mustard Vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside a plate of roasted meats or a side of rice. A dollop of sour cream can also add a nice creaminess to each bowl.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure it cools completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of German Style Vegetable Soup contains roughly 2740 calories, with 50g protein, 445g carbohydrates, and 92g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (439% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (274% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% 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 frozen vegetables in this soup?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables as a convenient alternative, especially if fresh options are not available. Just add them to the pot during the last 20-30 minutes of cooking to ensure they heat through without becoming mushy.
What type of meat works best for this soup?
Shortribs or beef cubes are ideal for their flavor and tenderness. However, you can also use chuck roast or even turkey for a lighter option. Adjust the cooking time based on the type of meat you use to ensure it's tender.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add a kick to your soup, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking. You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side, allowing each guest to customize the spice level to their liking.
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).