Cabbage and Ham Soup

Name: Cabbage and Ham Soup
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 60 min
Total time: 80 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Quebecois
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 medium onion (chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 3 cups cabbage (chopped); 2 cups carrots (sliced); 2 cups potatoes (diced); 500 grams smoked ham (cubed); 6 cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 teaspoon salt (to taste); 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (to taste)

80 min 6 servings Easy

All Recipes

A hearty and comforting cabbage and ham soup perfect for chilly days.

Prep

20 min

Cook

60 min

Total

80 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Cabbage and ham soup is a classic dish that warms the soul and fills the belly. This hearty soup is a favourite in many households, combining the comforting flavours of tender cabbage, smoky ham, and aromatic vegetables. This recipe is perfect for those chilly days when all you need is a warm bowl of soup to feel cozy. It's simple to make, using ingredients that are often on hand, making it an accessible option for a weekday meal.

Instructions

Sauté aromatics

In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.

Pro tip: Sautéing the vegetables enhances their natural sweetness.

Add cabbage and carrots

Add the chopped cabbage and sliced carrots to the pot. Stir to combine and cook for another 5 minutes until the cabbage begins to soften.

Pro tip: Chop cabbage into uniform pieces for even cooking.

Incorporate potatoes and ham

Add the diced potatoes and cubed smoked ham to the pot. Stir well to combine with the other vegetables.

Pro tip: Use smoked ham for a deeper, richer flavour.

Pour in broth and season

Pour in the chicken broth, then add dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir to mix the seasonings evenly.

Pro tip: Adjust seasoning to taste after the soup has simmered.

Simmer the soup

Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 45 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Pro tip: Simmer gently to allow flavours to meld.

Serve

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.

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Tips & Tricks

Use smoked ham for a deep, rich flavour.
Chop cabbage into uniform pieces for even cooking.
Sauté vegetables for added depth of taste.
Simmer gently to blend flavours well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days.

Can I freeze cabbage and ham soup?

Yes, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to three months.

How can I thicken the soup?

To thicken the soup, you can mash some of the potatoes or add a slurry of cornstarch and water.

What type of ham should I use?

Smoked ham is recommended for a deeper flavour, but regular cooked ham can also be used.

How do I adjust the seasoning?

Taste the soup after simmering and adjust the salt and pepper to your preference.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your cabbage and ham soup with crusty bread or a fresh green salad to complete the meal. For added convenience, this soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply reheat on the stove before serving. If you plan to freeze the soup, allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.