Russian Homestyle Soup Recipe – Cabbage Soup / щи / Shchi

When it comes to Russia, most of its territory is in the northern regions, so the weather is mostly cold. As a result, there are many famous soups, such as borscht and Beetroot Soup. During my visit to Moscow, I had the opportunity to taste a soup called Shchi, thanks to the hospitality of the locals.

Shchi is cabbage soup, a dish with a long history in Russia. Cabbage was introduced from Byzantium in the 9th century, and by the 10th century, Shchi had become a staple in Russian households because it is easy to make, can be eaten alone or with meat, and can be frozen for later use.

Now, let’s take a look at this historic Russian cabbage soup recipe and how it is made!

Cabbage Soup / щи / Shchi

Preparation Time: 40 minutes
Cooking Time: 60 minutes
Type: Soup
Cuisine: Russian Cuisine
Servings: 4-6
Calories: 250-380 kcal
Total Calories: 1510 kcal

Ingredients

Meat	500g of chicken (can use pork, lamb, or beef based on preference)
Potatoes	500g
Cabbage	Half of Cabbage, 500g approx.
Carrot	1, 100g approx.
Russian pickles (sauerkraut)	100g
Tomato paste	2 tablespoons (30g approx.)
Oil	1 tablespoon (14g approx.)
Peppercorns	Add to taste
Ground pepper	Add to taste
Bay leaves	4-5

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the meat broth

1. Add water and meat (we used chicken drumsticks) to a pot, bring to a boil over high heat, and cook for 20 minutes.
2. After 20 minutes, remove the meat and continue simmering the broth over low heat.

Step 2: Prepare the vegetables

In a frying pan, heat the oil, and sauté the sauerkraut and tomato paste until the ingredients are soft.

Step 3: Add vegetables to the broth

1. Add the sautéed sauerkraut and tomato paste to the chicken broth. Add bay leaves, peppercorns, and ground pepper, and simmer over medium heat for 10 minutes.
2. Add the shredded cabbage, adjusting the amount based on the pot size. Cook over high heat until boiling, then simmer over medium heat for 10 minutes.
3. Add the grated carrot and cook for 10 minutes.
4. Add the diced potatoes and cook for 20 minutes.

Step 4: Finish

1. Debone the previously cooked chicken drumsticks, cut the meat into small pieces, and put it into the soup.
2. Add cilantro or dill to taste for added flavor.

A rich bowl of cabbage soup is now ready!

For a more authentic taste, add some sour cream. This slightly tangy and flavorful cabbage soup is hearty and satisfying. Perfect for cold winter days when you need a warm, comforting soup. 💓

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