Kapusniak z Świeżoju Kapustoju (Fresh Cabbage Soup)
A lighter, brighter cousin to the more common sour cabbage soup, this Kapusniak uses fresh cabbage, creating a delicate and flavorful broth with tender vegetables and often a touch of pork or smoked meat for depth.
🧂 Ingredients
- 500 g Pork ribs or smoked pork belly(cut into pieces)
- 3 liters Water
- 1 medium Fresh white cabbage(shredded)
- 4 medium Potatoes(peeled and diced)
- 2 medium Carrots(grated)
- 1 large Onion(chopped)
- 2 tbsp Tomato paste
- 2 leaves Bay leaf
- 4-5 berries Allspice berries
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- 1/4 cup Fresh dill(chopped, for garnish)
- 1/4 cup Fresh parsley(chopped, for garnish)
👨🍳 Instructions
- 1
If using fresh pork, place the pork ribs or belly in a large pot with water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until the meat is tender. Skim off any foam that rises to the surface. If using pre-cooked smoked meat, you can add it later in the cooking process.
- 2
Add the diced potatoes to the pot and cook for about 10 minutes.
- 3
In a separate skillet, heat a little oil or use some rendered pork fat. Sauté the chopped onion until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the grated carrots and cook for another 5 minutes until slightly tender. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
- 4
Add the shredded fresh cabbage, sautéed vegetables, bay leaves, and allspice berries to the pot with the meat and potatoes. Bring to a simmer and cook for another 20-25 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender but not mushy.
- 5
Season the soup generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remove bay leaves and allspice berries before serving.
- 6
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish generously with fresh chopped dill and parsley. Serve hot, optionally with a dollop of sour cream or a slice of dark bread.
💡 Pro Tips
- ✓For a richer flavor, you can use a combination of fresh and smoked pork.
- ✓Don't overcook the cabbage; it should retain a slight bite.
- ✓This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
🔄 Variations
- Add a handful of cooked beans (like white beans or kidney beans) for extra heartiness.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and use vegetable broth. You can add smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.