View source for Russian Cabbage Soup (Shchi) Recipe

This is a tasty vegetable soup that's simple to make, very hearty, and delicious. 

 
=== Ingredients ===

*     1 head of cabbage, shredded 
*     3 potatoes, chopped 
*     2 onions, diced 
*     1 can diced tomatoes 
*     2 radishes, diced 
*     2 leeks (white part only), chopped 
*     1 carrot, chopped 
*     2 quarts beef broth 
*     4 garlic cloves, diced or crushed 
*     2 bay leaves 
*     2 tbsp olive oil 
*     1 tsp black peppercorns 
*     1 tsp caraway seed 
*     Salt, to taste (1-3 tsp) 

=== For serving: ===

*     1 tsp fresh dill, chopped 
*     1 tsp fresh parsley, chopped 
*     2 tbsp sour cream or creme fraiche 

== Preparation ==

#     Saute the onion, radish, leek, carrot, and garlic for 10 minutes, or until soft. 
#     Add the rest of the ingredients, bring to a boil, cover, and simmer for an hour. 
#     Salt to taste. If you used low sodium broth, you might have to add up to a tablespoon of kosher salt. Best to taste and test to preference. 
#     For best results, cool and refrigerate overnight to meld the flavors. It's still good the first day. 

=== Serving ===

*     Serve bowl with fresh dill, parsley, and sour cream mixed into each bowl. 

=== Notes ===

*     The salt makes a big difference in the flavor. 
*     The cabbage won't look like it's going to fit, but once it cooks down a little, it'll be fine. 
*     You could substitute veggie broth for vegetarians. 
*     You could also add meat to make it more filling. 
*     You can add demi-glace to the broth to make it even more rich if you want.