Description
This Savory Cabbage and Ham Cream Soup is a hearty, creamy dish loaded with tender cabbage, smoky ham, and fresh vegetables. With its velvety texture and rich flavors, this soup is the perfect comfort food for chilly days or cozy family dinners. It’s easy to prepare, customizable, and guaranteed to become a household favorite!
Ingredients
- 1 can (32 oz. chicken broth)
- 2 ribs celery (diced or sliced)
- 1 medium-sized head of cabbage (either shredded or chopped)
- 1 medium onion (diced)
- 3 medium carrots (sliced)
- 1 leek (washed and diced)
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup gluten-free flour (or regular flour)
- 1 1/2 tsp salt
- 3/4 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 quart of half-and-half or heavy whipping cream
- 2 cups cubed (fully cooked ham)
- 2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried marjoram
- 1 1/2 tsp fresh parsley (chopped (or 1/2 tsp dried parsley))
Instructions
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Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced celery, onion, carrots, and leek, stirring frequently. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables soften and release their natural sweetness.
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Create the Soup Base: Sprinkle the flour over the softened vegetables and stir well to coat them evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and allow it to thicken slightly, about 3-4 minutes.
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Add the Main Ingredients: Add the shredded cabbage, cubed ham, dried thyme, marjoram, and parsley. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer gently for 20-25 minutes, or until the cabbage becomes tender and the flavors meld together.
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Incorporate the Cream: Slowly pour in the half-and-half or heavy cream while stirring gently. Keep the heat low and warm the soup through, ensuring it doesn’t boil to avoid curdling. Stir occasionally to evenly distribute the cream.
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Serve and Garnish: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt or black pepper if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese. Pair with crusty bread or warm rolls for a complete meal.
Notes
- Customizable: Add potatoes, mushrooms, or zucchini to make the soup even heartier.
- Dairy-Free Option: Replace the half-and-half with unsweetened coconut milk or almond milk for a dairy-free version.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American