Grandma Lillie'S Russian Cabbage Soup
Grandma Lillie's Russian Cabbage Soup is a hearty, savory dish featuring tender meat, fresh cabbage, and a balanced mix of sweet and tangy flavors, perfect for comforting family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine tomatoes and water in a pot and bring to a boil.
- Add remaining ingredients; stir to blend.
- Simmer with lid ajar until meat is tender, about 2 to 2 1/2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider browning the flanken in a skillet before adding it to the soup. If you want a touch of sweetness, you can try using honey instead of sugar. Additionally, for a vegetarian option, substitute the beef with mushrooms and vegetable broth. Adding a bay leaf during simmering can enhance the soup's aroma.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty soup with a dollop of sour cream on top and a sprinkle of fresh herbs. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad. For a unique twist, consider serving it alongside Sweet Potato With Orange for a delightful contrast of flavors. A glass of red wine can also complement this dish nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to maintain consistency. The flavors will deepen with time, making leftovers even more enjoyable.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Lillie'S Russian Cabbage Soup contains roughly 1081 calories, with 38g protein, 216g carbohydrates, and 41g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (403% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (284% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2409mg per serving (105% 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 other types of meat in this soup?
Yes, you can substitute the flanken with other cuts of beef, such as chuck or brisket. Just ensure the meat is well-marbled for tenderness. Alternatively, for a lighter version, you could use chicken or turkey meat.
How can I adjust the soup's acidity?
If the soup tastes too acidic due to the tomatoes, you can balance it by adding a pinch of baking soda, which neutralizes acidity. Alternatively, adding more sugar can also help, but do so gradually to avoid over-sweetening.
Is it possible to freeze this soup?
Absolutely! This soup freezes well. After cooling, portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stovetop.
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).