Ham and cabbage soup is a hearty, comforting dish that's perfect for chilly days or whenever you're in need of a warm, satisfying meal. This soup combines the smoky flavor of ham with the tender sweetness of cabbage, along with other vegetables like carrots and potatoes, to create a rich and flavorful broth. It's a simple recipe that brings together wholesome ingredients in a pot, simmering them to perfection.
Not only is this soup easy to make, but it's also a great way to use leftover ham, making it both economical and delicious. Whether served as a main course or a side, ham and cabbage soup promises to be a crowd-pleaser.
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Why This Recipe Works
This ham and cabbage soup recipe works wonderfully because of its straightforward preparation and the deeply satisfying flavors it delivers. The combination of ham and cabbage is classic, offering a balance between the ham's saltiness and the cabbage's mild sweetness. When these flavors meld together in the broth, they create a comforting and umami-rich soup that's hard to resist. Additionally, the inclusion of potatoes and carrots adds heartiness and texture, making the soup a complete meal in one bowl. The slow simmering process allows all the flavors to infuse the broth, ensuring that each spoonful is packed with taste.
Moreover, this soup is incredibly versatile and forgiving. It can easily be adapted to suit your taste preferences or to work with the ingredients you have on hand. For instance, you can add different vegetables, adjust the amount of broth for a thicker or thinner soup, or play with seasonings to customize the flavor profile. It's also a fantastic way to make use of leftover ham from holidays or other meals. Easy to make, economical, and deliciously comforting, ham and cabbage soup is a recipe that proves simple ingredients can produce the most flavorful and satisfying dishes.
Ingredients
Ham - Adds a smoky, savory flavor. Use leftover ham or ham hocks. Substitute: smoked sausage for a different but equally flavorful option.
Cabbage - Provides a slight sweetness and crunch. Substitute: kale or collard greens for a different texture and taste.
Potatoes - Adds heartiness and thickness to the soup. Substitute: turnips or parsnips for a lower carb option.
Carrots - Brings sweetness and color. Substitute: sweet potatoes for a richer sweetness.
Onion - The base for any good soup, adding depth and flavor. Substitute: leeks for a milder onion flavor.
Tips
- Saute the onions and carrots before adding the broth to deepen the flavors.
- Add the cabbage towards the end of cooking to retain some crunch.
- Use a large pot to accommodate the volume of cabbage and ensure even cooking.
- Adjust the seasoning after the soup has simmered, as the ham can add saltiness.
- Serve the soup hot, as it thickens upon cooling.
How to Serve
Ham and cabbage soup is a comforting and hearty dish perfect for chilly days. It's a simple yet satisfying meal that's packed with flavor and nutrients.
- This soup can be served as a main course, with crusty bread on the side to soak up the delicious broth.
- It also pairs well with a light salad for a balanced meal.
- For a twist, you can serve it over rice or with noodles to make it even more filling.
Similar Recipes
Slow Cooker Bean and Bacon Soup
Ham and Cabbage Soup
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion chopped
- 2 carrots peeled and sliced
- 2 potatoes peeled and diced
- 2 cups ham diced
- ½ head of cabbage chopped
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon thyme or bay leaves for added flavor
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and carrots, sauteing until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the diced potatoes and ham to the pot, stirring to combine.
- Pour in the broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and add thyme or bay leaves if using.
- Cover and simmer for about 45 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
- Stir in the chopped cabbage and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, until the cabbage is tender but still slightly crunchy.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove bay leaves if used.
- Serve hot, with optional bread or salad on the side.
Nutrition
Notes
- Saute the onions and carrots before adding the broth to deepen the flavors.
- Add the cabbage towards the end of cooking to retain some crunch.
- Use a large pot to accommodate the volume of cabbage and ensure even cooking.
- Adjust the seasoning after the soup has simmered, as the ham can add saltiness.
- Serve the soup hot, as it thickens upon cooling.