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
- Add water and meat (we used chicken drumsticks) to a pot, bring to a boil over high heat, and cook for 20 minutes.
- 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
- 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.
- 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.
- Add the grated carrot and cook for 10 minutes.
- Add the diced potatoes and cook for 20 minutes.
Step 4: Finish
- Debone the previously cooked chicken drumsticks, cut the meat into small pieces, and put it into the soup.
- 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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