How to Make a Classic French Cabbage and Bacon Soup
If you’re looking for a comforting and flavorful dish, a classic French cabbage and bacon soup is the perfect choice. This hearty soup combines the rich flavor of sautéed bacon with the earthy taste of cabbage, resulting in a deliciously satisfying meal. Follow this simple recipe to create your own classic French cabbage and bacon soup at home.
Ingredients
To make this delicious soup, you will need the following ingredients:
- 4 strips of thick-cut bacon
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped
- 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Begin by placing the bacon strips in a large pot over medium heat. Cook the bacon until it is crispy, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the pot and place it on a paper towel to drain excess grease. Leave the bacon drippings in the pot for enhanced flavor.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the bacon drippings. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent. This will create a fragrant base for your soup.
Step 3: Add Cabbage and Broth
Next, add the chopped cabbage to the pot, stirring it into the onions and garlic. Allow the cabbage to wilt for about 5 minutes. Then, pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Step 4: Incorporate Carrots and Seasoning
Add the diced carrots and bay leaf to the pot. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Season the soup with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
Step 5: Add the Bacon
Once the soup is ready, crumble the cooked bacon back into the pot, stirring it in to blend all the flavors together. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. This adds a beautiful splash of color and freshness to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This classic French cabbage and bacon soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a light salad. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner or an impressive meal to serve guests.
Conclusion
Making a classic French cabbage and bacon soup is a rewarding culinary experience that delivers rich flavors and nutrition. This soup not only warms you up on a chilly day but also presents an opportunity to enjoy the hearty goodness of simple ingredients coming together beautifully. Enjoy your homemade soup!