How to Make French Cabbage Soup (Soupe au Chou)
French cabbage soup, or Soupe au Chou, is a hearty and nutritious dish that reflects the simplicity and richness of French cuisine. This delightful soup is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make French cabbage soup.
Ingredients You Will Need
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks of celery, chopped
- 4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions to Prepare French Cabbage Soup
Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they become translucent and fragrant, approximately 5 minutes.
Step 2: Add Carrots and Celery
Add the sliced carrots and chopped celery to the pot. Continue to sauté the mixture for another 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften.
Step 3: Incorporate Cabbage
Stir in the chopped cabbage, allowing it to wilt slightly. This will take about 3 minutes, as the cabbage will reduce in volume.
Step 4: Pour in the Broth
Once the cabbage has begun to soften, pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. Add the can of diced tomatoes along with their juices.
Step 5: Season the Soup
Add the dried thyme, bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir the mixture well to combine all the ingredients.
Step 6: Simmer
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 30 to 40 minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Once the soup is done simmering, taste it and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for an added touch of flavor.
Tips for the Best French Cabbage Soup
To enhance the flavor of your Soupe au Chou, consider adding smoked sausage or bacon for a meaty twist. You can also add potatoes or beans for additional heartiness. For a vegan option, ensure you use vegetable broth and omit any animal products.
This hearty soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage. Simply reheat on the stove when you're ready to enjoy it again.
Conclusion
French Cabbage Soup (Soupe au Chou) is a delicious way to warm up on chilly days. Its wealth of vegetables makes it a wholesome option for any meal. Whether served as a starter or a main dish, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe repertoire.