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Creamy Cabbage Soup with Ham

Creamy Cabbage Soup with Ham

A cozy and comforting Creamy Cabbage Soup with Ham that blends tender cabbage, savory smoked ham, and a rich creamy broth. This hearty soup is perfect for chilly days, easy to prepare with simple ingredients, and ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep. The soup offers a balanced meal full of fiber and protein, and is easily customizable to suit your taste preferences.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 medium head fresh cabbage, chopped
  • 1 ½ cups smoked ham, diced
  • 1 medium onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream or sour cream
  • 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • Optional herbs (thyme, parsley), chopped for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the base: Heat butter or olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic and sauté until fragrant and translucent, building a flavorful base for the soup.
  2. Add the ham: Stir in the diced smoked ham pieces and cook until they brown slightly, releasing their smoky aroma and intensifying the savory character of the soup.
  3. Cook the cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage to the pot and cook until it begins to soften, breaking down the firm layers so they blend beautifully with the broth.
  4. Pour in the broth: Pour in chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook until the cabbage is tender and all flavors meld together.
  5. Make it creamy: Lower the heat and slowly stir in heavy cream or sour cream. Mix thoroughly to achieve a smooth, velvety consistency that defines the soup’s signature creaminess.
  6. Season and finish: Season with salt, pepper, and optional herbs like thyme or parsley. Let the soup simmer briefly to marry all the flavors perfectly before serving.

Notes

  • Use smoked ham for a richer, deeper flavor.
  • Do not overcook the cabbage; cook just until tender to keep some texture.
  • Add cream off the heat to prevent curdling and maintain a silky smooth texture.
  • Adjust seasoning throughout cooking to achieve a perfectly balanced taste.
  • Simmer gently after adding broth to blend flavors without reducing liquid too fast.

Nutrition

Keywords: creamy cabbage soup, ham soup, comforting soup, easy weeknight dinner, creamy soup with ham, cabbage and ham soup