Peasant Cabbage Soup
A hearty, comforting cabbage soup with savory ham and bacon, aromatic herbs, perfect for a rustic, satisfying meal on chilly days.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Dissolve the beef bouillon cubes in boiling water.
- Cook chopped bacon and chopped ham in a large saucepan until the bacon is crisp.
- Add the bouillon, shredded cabbage, sliced onions, chopped carrots, and marjoram to the saucepan.
- Cover and simmer the soup for 45 minutes.
- Serve hot, preferably with cornbread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, try using homemade beef broth instead of bouillon cubes. You can also substitute the bacon with turkey bacon or omit it entirely for a lighter version. If you want to add more protein, diced chicken or sausage can work well too. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding a pinch of cayenne for a touch of heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty soup hot, ideally with a side of cornbread or crusty bread for dipping. A simple green salad or pickled vegetables can complement the flavors nicely. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a dish like German Cabbage Bake for a comforting, cabbage-themed dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if the soup thickens. You can also microwave it in a covered bowl, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Peasant Cabbage Soup contains roughly 822 calories, with 34g protein, 154g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (660% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (248% of the Daily Value), and iron (222% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 735mg per serving (32% 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 type of meat in this soup?
Yes, you can easily substitute the bacon and ham with other meats like sausage or even shredded chicken. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, simply skip the meat and add more vegetables or beans for protein.
How can I make this soup more filling?
To make the soup heartier, consider adding potatoes or beans. You can also serve it over a bed of rice or alongside a bowl of Spanish Rice for a satisfying meal that sticks to your ribs.
What can I do to enhance the flavor of the soup?
To enhance the flavor, you might sauté the onions and carrots before adding them to the soup for a deeper sweetness. Adding herbs like thyme or a bay leaf during simmering can also elevate the taste.
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).