sweet and sour cabbage soup recipe
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The Best sweet and sour cabbage soup recipe
What I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. It’s light enough for a weeknight dinner but still filling, and it works just as well as a cozy meal on a chilly evening. Plus, it’s packed with good-for-you ingredients—cabbage is full of fiber and vitamins, and the tomatoes and apples add natural sweetness without any processed sugar. It’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’re doing something good for your family without sacrificing flavor. And honestly, anything that gets my picky eaters to clean their bowls without complaint is a keeper in my kitchen.
Sweet and Sour Cabbage Soup
A comforting and tangy soup featuring tender cabbage, sweet apples, and a balance of sweet and sour flavors. This hearty dish is perfect for chilly days and pairs well with crusty bread.
🥘Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small head green cabbage (about 1 lb), thinly sliced
- 1 large carrot, grated
- 1 medium apple, peeled and diced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp caraway seeds (optional)
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Crusty bread
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. -
2
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. -
3
Add the sliced cabbage, grated carrot, and diced apple to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage begins to wilt. -
4
Pour in the broth and diced tomatoes (with juice). Stir in the apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, caraway seeds (if using), salt, and black pepper. -
5
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, until the cabbage is tender. -
6
Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or vinegar if needed. -
7
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, a dollop of sour cream, or Greek yogurt. Serve with crusty bread if desired.
🔧Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Wooden spoon
- Measuring cups and spoons
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Sweet and Sour Cabbage Soup Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Sweet and Sour Cabbage Soup
1. Can I use red cabbage instead of green cabbage in sweet and sour cabbage soup?
Yes, you can substitute red cabbage for green cabbage in this recipe. Red cabbage will give the soup a slightly different flavor and a vibrant purple color, but the overall sweet and sour profile will remain similar. Keep in mind that red cabbage can be a bit tougher, so you may want to slice it thinner or cook it a little longer to soften it.
2. How can I make this soup less sour or sweeter?
To adjust the sweetness or sourness of the soup, you can modify the ingredients to suit your taste. For a less sour soup, reduce the amount of vinegar or lemon juice and add a little more sugar or honey. If you prefer a sweeter soup, increase the sugar or honey and balance it with a touch more vinegar or lemon juice. Taste as you go to achieve the perfect balance for your preference.
3. Can I make sweet and sour cabbage soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To make this soup in a slow cooker, add all the ingredients (except for the vinegar and sour cream, if using) to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Stir in the vinegar just before serving to preserve its tangy flavor. If you’re adding sour cream, stir it in at the end and let it heat through gently without boiling.
4. How long does sweet and sour cabbage soup keep in the refrigerator?
Sweet and sour cabbage soup will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors often deepen and improve after a day or two, making it a great make-ahead dish. Reheat the soup gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
5. Can I freeze sweet and sour cabbage soup?
Yes, you can freeze sweet and sour cabbage soup, but it’s best to omit the sour cream if you plan to freeze it, as dairy can separate and become grainy when thawed. Freeze the soup in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if needed. Stir in fresh sour cream just before serving if desired.
