Pork and Cabbage Soup

Hearty Pork and Cabbage Soup: A Comforting Meal for Any Occasion

Indulge in a bowl of warmth and flavor with this delicious Pork and Cabbage Soup recipe. Packed with wholesome ingredients and aromatic spices, this hearty soup is perfect for chilly days or anytime you’re craving a comforting meal. Whether you’re cooking for your family or meal-prepping for the week ahead, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Let’s dive in and learn how to make this nourishing soup from scratch!

Introduction

Pork and cabbage soup is a classic dish that’s loved for its simplicity and robust flavors. With tender pork sausage, crisp cabbage, and savory broth, this soup offers a perfect balance of textures and tastes. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, allowing you to customize the ingredients to suit your preferences. Whether you’re following a keto lifestyle or looking for a low-carb option, this recipe can be easily adapted to meet your dietary needs. So, grab your ingredients and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

  • Meat:
    • 1 lb Pork sausage
  • Produce:
    • 1 clove Garlic
    • 1/2 Head cabbage
    • 1 tbsp Marjoram, dried
    • 1 Onion
    • 3 Potatoes
  • Canned Goods:
    • 2 tsp Beef bouillon granules
    • 1 (14 ounce) can Beef broth
  • Baking & Spices:
    • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Liquids:
    • 2 cups Water

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

  1. Peel and chop the onion and garlic.
  2. Core and thinly slice the cabbage.
  3. Peel and dice the potatoes.

Step 2: Brown the Pork Sausage

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the pork sausage over medium heat until browned and no longer pink, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
  2. Remove any excess fat from the pot, leaving about a tablespoon for flavor.

Step 3: Saute the Aromatics

  1. Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot with the browned sausage. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

  1. Stir in the sliced cabbage and diced potatoes.
  2. Season with dried marjoram, salt, and pepper to taste.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

  1. Pour in the beef broth and water, then add the beef bouillon granules for extra flavor.
  2. Bring the soup to a simmer over medium-low heat.
  3. Cover and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

  1. Ladle the hot soup into bowls.
  2. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
  3. Serve piping hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this delicious Pork and Cabbage Soup!

Cook Notes and Variations

  • Additions: Feel free to customize this soup by adding other vegetables such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers.
  • Spice it Up: For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup.
  • Make it Creamy: For a creamier version of this soup, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk before serving.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use other types of meat instead of pork sausage? A: Absolutely! You can substitute pork sausage with ground beef, turkey, or chicken sausage for a different flavor profile.

Q: Is this soup keto-friendly? A: While this soup contains potatoes, which are higher in carbs, you can make it more keto-friendly by reducing the number of potatoes or omitting them altogether. You can also add extra low-carb vegetables like cauliflower or broccoli to bulk up the soup without adding too many carbs.

Q: Can I freeze leftover soup? A: Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. Freeze for up to 3 months and thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

Keto Version

For a keto-friendly version of this Pork and Cabbage Soup, omit the potatoes entirely and add extra low-carb vegetables like cauliflower or broccoli. You can also use chicken or turkey sausage instead of pork sausage for a leaner option.

Low-Carb Version

To make a low-carb version of this soup, reduce the number of potatoes or omit them altogether. You can also replace the potatoes with turnips or radishes for a lower-carb alternative.

In conclusion, Pork and Cabbage Soup is a hearty and satisfying dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re craving a comforting meal on a cold winter’s night or looking for a nutritious option to enjoy year-round, this recipe fits the bill. With its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and customizable variations, it’s a recipe that’s sure to please the whole family. So, gather your ingredients and whip up a batch of this delicious soup today!