This Creamy Cabbage and Potato Soup is a soul-warming blend of tender red potatoes and subtly sweet green cabbage, simmered to perfection in a fragrant, creamy broth. A touch of Dijon mustard and Worcestershire sauce adds a tangy depth, while caraway seeds infuse it with a hint of warm spice. Pair it with crusty bread for a complete, comforting meal. Perfect for those cooler evenings, this recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re serving it as a starter or a main dish, its rich flavors and creamy texture are sure to impress. It’s a classic comfort dish that’s both nostalgic and satisfying, making it a go-to for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 2 tablespoons butter (salted or unsalted)
- 2 tablespoons canola oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 1/2 head green cabbage, coarsely chopped
- 1 1/2 pounds red potatoes, cubed (1/2-3/4 inch)
- 6 cups chicken broth or vegetable broth
- 5 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups half-and-half
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon hot sauce (optional, to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
Directions:
- Heat butter and oil in a Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once melted, add onion and cook over medium-low heat for 6-7 minutes until softened but not browned.
- Stir in cabbage and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly wilted. Add potatoes and stir to coat.
- Pour in broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 12-15 minutes, or until potatoes are fork-tender.
- Turn off heat. In a small bowl, whisk flour with 1/2 cup cooking liquid to form a smooth slurry. Gradually whisk in half-and-half until combined.
- Slowly add the slurry to the pot, along with caraway seeds if using, and return to a simmer. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened.
- Stir in Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce (if desired), salt, and pepper. Garnish with parsley before serving.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Kcal: 301 per serving
Servings: 6
Creamy Cabbage and Potato Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food
When it comes to wholesome and satisfying meals, few dishes can rival the appeal of a rich and creamy soup. The Creamy Cabbage and Potato Soup is a culinary gem that brings together the humble yet versatile ingredients of potatoes and cabbage to create a dish that is both nourishing and deeply comforting. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you crave a heartwarming bowl of goodness, this recipe strikes a balance between rustic charm and elevated flavors.
A Blend of Tradition and Comfort
This recipe embodies old-world charm, inspired by generations of home cooks who relied on affordable yet flavorful ingredients to create memorable meals. The use of cabbage and potatoes a classic pairing in many cultures provides a natural sweetness and earthy richness that forms the foundation of the soup. Combined with a creamy broth, the result is a dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
The addition of Dijon mustard, Worcestershire sauce, and caraway seeds elevates the flavor profile, infusing the soup with a tangy depth and subtle spice. These unexpected ingredients transform a simple dish into a sophisticated meal, making it equally suitable for casual family dinners or as a starter for a dinner party.
Nutritional Value and Versatility
One of the standout features of this soup is its nutritional profile. Cabbage is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and fiber, making it an excellent choice for boosting immunity and digestion. Red potatoes add a healthy dose of potassium and complex carbohydrates, ensuring you stay energized and satisfied.
This recipe also offers plenty of room for customization. Whether you’re looking to add protein or more vegetables, the soup adapts beautifully to your preferences. Incorporate leftover ham, crispy bacon, or sausage for a meatier version. Alternatively, add carrots, celery, or leeks for an extra layer of flavor and texture. For those following a vegetarian or vegan diet, swap the chicken broth for vegetable stock and use plant-based cream to achieve the same creamy consistency.
Ease of Preparation
Despite its rich and complex flavors, this soup is incredibly easy to prepare. It’s a one-pot wonder that minimizes cleanup and maximizes convenience. The recipe allows you to cut down on prep time by using pre-chopped coleslaw mix in place of fresh cabbage, or you can cube the potatoes in advance and store them in water to prevent discoloration. This flexibility makes it a practical choice for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
Perfect for Make-Ahead and Freezing
One of the best things about Creamy Cabbage and Potato Soup is how well it keeps. The flavors meld and deepen over time, so making it a day in advance often results in an even more delicious dish. Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days, and simply reheat it over low heat when ready to serve.
This soup is also freezer-friendly, making it ideal for meal prep. Portion it into containers and freeze for up to three months. While dairy-based soups can sometimes separate upon freezing, gentle reheating while stirring ensures the creamy consistency is restored.
Serving Suggestions
The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity, but the right accompaniments can take it to the next level. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or buttery dinner rolls to soak up every last drop of the creamy broth. For a lighter option, pair it with a simple green salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the soup.
For an added touch of decadence, garnish the soup with a dollop of sour cream, crumbled bacon, or freshly grated Parmesan cheese. A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the fresh, vibrant flavors of the dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Budget-Friendly: Using readily available and affordable ingredients, this soup is perfect for feeding a family without breaking the bank.
- Comforting: The creamy texture and hearty flavors make it a go-to dish for cozy nights.
- Customizable: Whether you prefer it vegetarian, loaded with protein, or packed with extra veggies, this soup adapts to your tastes.
- Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal cleanup, it’s an ideal recipe for cooks of all skill levels.
- Great for Leftovers: It reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying later in the week.
Conclusion:
Creamy Cabbage and Potato Soup is a testament to the power of simple ingredients transformed with a touch of creativity and care. It’s a dish that brings people together, evoking feelings of warmth and contentment with every spoonful. Whether you’re looking to impress guests with a flavorful starter or seeking a comforting meal for a quiet night in, this soup is a must-try.
As the weather turns cooler, let this recipe become your go-to for a bowl of hearty, homemade goodness. Pair it with your favorite sides, experiment with add-ins, and savor the joy of creating a meal that feels like home.