Cabbage Soup (Shchi)

Story behind the dish

Few comfort foods are as warming and soul-nourishing as a bowl of traditional cabbage soup, or "Shchi," cherished in Russian homes for centuries. This hearty, rustic dish brings together simple ingredients with rich flavors, making it perfect for chilly days or whenever you crave a taste of homeland comfort. Its vibrant aroma and nourishing qualities make each bowl feel like a warm hug on a plate.

Making Shchi at home is like recreating a cozy family memory—slow simmering vegetables mingling and developing deep, comforting flavors. When you ladle this soup, topped with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh dill, you’re not just eating; you’re experiencing a heartfelt tradition handed down through generations.

Ingredients

• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded
• 1 large carrot, diced
• 1 celery stalk, sliced
• 1 bay leaf
• 8 cups vegetable stock (or broth)
• 2 large potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 large tomatoes, chopped (or 1 cup canned diced tomatoes)
• Sour cream, for garnish
• Fresh dill, for garnish

Step-by-step

1. Melt the butter in a large Dutch oven or heavy-duty pot over medium heat. Once melted, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the shredded cabbage, diced carrot, and sliced celery to the pot. Sauté, stirring frequently, until the vegetables begin to soften, about 3 minutes.
3. Pour in the vegetable stock and add the bay leaf. Increase the heat to high and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer until the vegetables are crisp-tender, about 15 minutes.
4. Add the diced potatoes to the soup. Bring it back to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer until the potatoes are tender, about 10 minutes.
5. Stir in the chopped fresh tomatoes (or canned tomatoes). Bring the soup back to a boil, then uncover and simmer for an additional 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Remove and discard the bay leaf. Ladle the soup into bowls.
7. Garnish each serving with a generous dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of fresh dill before serving.

Chef’s tips & serving ideas

• For extra flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a sprinkle of smoked paprika.
• Serve this nourishing soup with crusty bread or rye to complement its rustic charm.

Closing thoughts

The beauty of making Shchi at home is in its simplicity and warmth. Each spoonful is a reminder of hearty traditions and family gatherings, ideal comforting fare on a chilly day or when you need a little homely magic. So gather your ingredients, turn on some good music, and enjoy crafting this timeless, soul-soothing dish.