Grandma Quenqua'S Cabbage Soup
Grandma Quenqua's Cabbage Soup is a hearty, flavorful dish featuring tender cabbage in a savory tomato broth, perfect for comforting family meals or cold days.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Coarsely shred the cabbage.
- In a 4-quart saucepan, combine tomato juice, shredded cabbage, beef bouillon cubes, water, diced onion, minced garlic, salt, sugar, and lemon juice.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce the heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for 45 minutes until the cabbage is tender.
- Serve hot with crispy bread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a deeper flavor, consider adding diced carrots or celery to the soup. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute vegetable bouillon for the beef bouillon cubes. You can also use fresh tomatoes instead of tomato juice for a more rustic taste. Adjust the lemon juice based on your acidity preference; it can enhance the flavor remarkably, especially if you plan to serve it alongside dishes like Grandma'S Meatball Soup.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty cabbage soup hot, ideally with crispy bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It pairs well with a light dessert like Lemon Pineapple Fluff for a refreshing finish. Consider adding a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, right before serving to enhance the flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover cabbage soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual portions, covering them to retain moisture, and heat in short intervals until hot throughout. Freezing is not recommended, as the cabbage can become mushy upon thawing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandma Quenqua'S Cabbage Soup contains roughly 420 calories, with 10g protein, 53g carbohydrates, and 20g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (31% of the Daily Value), vitamin C (31% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (30% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. 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 other types of cabbage?
Yes, you can use green or Savoy cabbage as substitutes. Each variety will add a slightly different texture and flavor, but they all work well in this soup. Just be sure to shred them coarsely to ensure even cooking.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while simmering. You could also add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper, adjusting to your heat preference for a warming kick.
Is this soup suitable for freezing?
While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze the soup for up to two months. However, keep in mind that the texture of the cabbage may change once thawed. To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving space for expansion.
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).