Hearty Comfort: Rustic Cabbage and Sausage Soup Recipe

There’s something profoundly comforting about a warm, hearty soup, especially when the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp. This Rustic Cabbage and Sausage Soup recipe is a celebration of simple ingredients, transformed into a deeply flavorful and satisfying meal. It’s the kind of dish that evokes memories of cozy kitchens and shared family meals, a true embodiment of rustic charm.

This soup is perfect for a chilly evening, a lazy weekend lunch, or any time you’re craving a bowl of warmth. It’s also incredibly versatile. Feel free to adapt the recipe to your liking, using different types of sausage, adding more vegetables, or adjusting the seasoning to your preference. The key is to embrace the rustic nature of the dish and let the flavors develop as it simmers.

**Why You’ll Love This Recipe:**

* **Simple and Satisfying:** Made with humble ingredients that come together to create a surprisingly complex and delicious flavor profile.
* **Hearty and Filling:** Packed with vegetables and protein, this soup is a complete meal in a bowl.
* **Easy to Make:** With minimal prep and cooking time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
* **Versatile and Customizable:** Adaptable to your taste preferences and dietary needs.
* **Budget-Friendly:** Uses affordable ingredients, making it a great option for feeding a crowd.
* **Great for Meal Prep:** Makes a large batch that keeps well in the refrigerator or freezer.

**Ingredients You’ll Need:**

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather the ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Rustic Cabbage and Sausage Soup:

* **Sausage:** 1 pound of Italian sausage (sweet, mild, or hot, depending on your preference). You can use links or ground sausage. For a healthier option, consider using chicken or turkey sausage.
* **Cabbage:** 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded. Green cabbage is the most common choice, but Savoy or red cabbage can also be used.
* **Onion:** 1 large onion, chopped. Yellow or white onions work best.
* **Carrots:** 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced. Adds sweetness and color to the soup.
* **Celery:** 2 stalks of celery, diced. Contributes to the aromatic base of the soup.
* **Garlic:** 4 cloves of garlic, minced. Adds a pungent and savory flavor.
* **Chicken Broth:** 8 cups of chicken broth. Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian option.
* **Diced Tomatoes:** 1 (14.5 ounce) can of diced tomatoes, undrained. Adds acidity and depth of flavor.
* **Tomato Paste:** 2 tablespoons of tomato paste. Enhances the tomato flavor and adds richness.
* **Olive Oil:** 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Used for sautéing the vegetables.
* **Dried Herbs:** 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and 1/2 teaspoon of dried rosemary. Adds a warm and earthy flavor.
* **Bay Leaf:** 1 bay leaf. Contributes a subtle, aromatic flavor. Remember to remove it before serving.
* **Salt and Pepper:** To taste. Season generously to bring out the flavors.
* **Optional:** Red pepper flakes (for a touch of heat), Parmesan cheese (for garnish), fresh parsley (for garnish).

**Equipment You’ll Need:**

* Large pot or Dutch oven
* Cutting board
* Knife
* Measuring spoons and cups
* Wooden spoon or spatula

**Step-by-Step Instructions:**

Now, let’s get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create your own Rustic Cabbage and Sausage Soup:

**Step 1: Prepare the Sausage**

If using sausage links, remove them from their casings. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the sausage over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until the sausage is fully cooked and browned. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside.

If there is excessive grease in the pot after browning the sausage, drain off some of the excess fat, leaving about 1-2 tablespoons in the pot. The rendered fat will add flavor to the vegetables.

**Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables**

Add the olive oil to the pot. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery and sauté over medium heat until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. These aromatic vegetables form the foundation of the soup’s flavor.

Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

**Step 3: Add the Remaining Ingredients**

Return the cooked sausage to the pot. Add the shredded cabbage, diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato paste, chicken broth, dried oregano, dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaf. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

**Step 4: Simmer the Soup**

Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to 1 hour. The longer the soup simmers, the more the flavors will meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

**Step 5: Season and Adjust**

After simmering, remove the bay leaf. Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Add more herbs or spices if desired. If you want a touch of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

**Step 6: Serve and Enjoy**

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.

**Tips and Variations:**

* **Type of Sausage:** Experiment with different types of sausage to find your favorite flavor combination. Italian sausage (sweet, mild, or hot), kielbasa, chorizo, or even andouille sausage would all be delicious in this soup.
* **Vegetarian Option:** To make this soup vegetarian, omit the sausage and use vegetable broth. You can add other vegetables, such as potatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini, to make it even heartier. Consider adding a can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans or great northern beans for added protein.
* **Spice Level:** Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the spiciness of the soup. You can also add a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
* **Smoked Paprika:** Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
* **Vinegar:** A splash of red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can brighten the flavors of the soup.
* **Potatoes:** Add diced potatoes (such as Yukon Gold or red potatoes) for a heartier soup.
* **Greens:** Stir in some chopped kale or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients and flavor.
* **Slow Cooker:** This recipe can easily be adapted for the slow cooker. Brown the sausage and sauté the vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
* **Storage:** Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

**Serving Suggestions:**

This Rustic Cabbage and Sausage Soup is delicious on its own, but here are a few serving suggestions to make it even more special:

* **Crusty Bread:** Serve with a side of crusty bread for dipping into the flavorful broth.
* **Garlic Bread:** Garlic bread is another great option for soaking up the soup.
* **Parmesan Cheese:** Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese for a salty and savory flavor.
* **Fresh Herbs:** Sprinkle with fresh parsley, chives, or dill for added freshness.
* **Side Salad:** Serve with a simple green salad for a light and refreshing complement.
* **Grilled Cheese Sandwich:** Pair with a grilled cheese sandwich for a classic comfort food combination.

**Nutritional Information (Approximate):**

(Per serving, based on 6 servings):

* Calories: Approximately 350-450
* Protein: 25-35g
* Fat: 20-30g
* Carbohydrates: 20-30g

*Note: Nutritional information can vary depending on the specific ingredients used.*

**Conclusion:**

This Rustic Cabbage and Sausage Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s an experience. It’s a journey back to simpler times, when food was made with love and shared with family and friends. It’s a reminder that even the most humble ingredients can be transformed into something extraordinary. So, gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a pot of pure comfort. Enjoy!

**Enjoy this recipe?** Let us know in the comments below! Share your creations on social media with #RusticCabbageSoup. We can’t wait to see what you come up with!