Schee Or Cabbage Soup

Cook: 360 min Cuisine: Eastern European

A hearty, flavorful cabbage and sauerkraut soup with tender pork and beef, perfect for cold days or family gatherings, offering a comforting blend of savory and tangy flavors.

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Ingredients

  • 2 heads cabbage
  • 2 quarts tomatoes
  • 2 pounds pork spareribs
  • 5 or 6 bay leaves
  • 5 tablespoons salt
  • 2 cans sauerkraut
  • 4 or 5 onions
  • 4 pounds beef short rib or flank or soup meat
  • 1 teaspoon pepper
  • water to cover

Instructions

  1. Place all ingredients in an electric roaster or large cooking vessel.
  2. Bring to a boil and then reduce heat to cook for 5 to 6 hours.
  3. Remove the meat from the soup and serve separately with mustard.
  4. Allow the soup to cool and then freeze leftovers in quart and 2-quart plastic containers.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider browning the pork spareribs and beef short ribs in a skillet before adding them to the pot. You can substitute fresh tomatoes with canned diced tomatoes if they're out of season. If you prefer a vegetarian version, replace the meat with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or lentils for a different flavor profile. Adding a touch of smoked paprika can enhance the depth of this soup.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for added freshness. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side of pickles. The meat can be served separately with mustard or horseradish to complement the flavors. For a complete meal, consider a light salad or a side of roasted vegetables to balance the richness of the soup.

Storage & Reheating

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to quart or 2-quart plastic containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual portions, ensuring they are heated through.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Schee Or Cabbage Soup contains roughly 2681 calories, with 128g protein, 219g carbohydrates, and 163g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (488% of the Daily Value), protein (255% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (240% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1931mg per serving (84% of the Daily Value).

2681 kcal 100% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 127.7g 100% DV
Total Fat 162.9g 100% DV
Carbs 219.4g 80% DV
Fiber 67.3g 100% DV
Sugar 25.9g 52% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 1931.3mg 84% DV
Potassium 4519.2mg 96% DV
Cholesterol 446.6mg 100% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 1237.5mcg 100% DV
Vitamin C 439.4mg 100% DV
Vitamin D 10.4mcg 52% DV
Calcium 1953.7mg 100% DV
Iron 40mg 100% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber

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?

Absolutely! While pork spareribs and beef short ribs are traditional, you can use any beef cut suitable for slow cooking, such as chuck roast or brisket. If you prefer a lighter option, chicken thighs or even turkey can work well, though cooking times may vary.

How can I make this soup spicier?

To add some heat, consider incorporating red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when you add the other ingredients. For a more complex flavor, a splash of hot sauce or a diced fresh chili can provide a nice kick without overpowering the dish.

What should I do if the soup is too salty?

If your soup ends up too salty, try adding a few diced potatoes or additional vegetables to absorb some of the saltiness. Alternatively, adding a bit of cream or coconut milk can help balance the flavors and reduce the salty 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).

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