Hungarian Cabbage, Sausage, and Bean Soup Recipe

Cook Time: 75 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 to 3 pounds Hungarian sausage, casings removed
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 medium carrots, chopped
• 3 stalks celery, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, or to taste
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 2 (15 ounce) cans cannellini or great northern beans, drained but not rinsed
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken stock
• 1/2 head Savoy cabbage, chopped

Directions

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat.

Step 2: Add the sausage to the pot, cooking and stirring to break up the meat with a spatula. Cook until browned and crumbly, about 5 to 7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage, leaving the oil in the pot.

Step 3: Add the chopped onions, carrots, celery, salt, and red pepper flakes to the pot. Stir to coat the vegetables with oil and saut for about 8 minutes until they start to soften.

Step 4: Add the minced garlic, paprika, and dried thyme. Stir for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 5: Return the cooked sausage and any accumulated juices to the pot. Stir in the beans and chicken stock. If needed, add water to ensure the ingredients are covered.

Step 6: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 30 minutes.

Step 7: Add the chopped cabbage and continue to simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes more, or until the cabbage softens.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Calories	499
Total Fat	34g
Saturated Fat	11g
Cholesterol	69mg
Sodium	1526mg
Total Carbohydrate	26g
Dietary Fiber	7g
Total Sugars	5g
Protein	23g
Vitamin C	17mg
Calcium	120mg
Iron	4mg
Potassium	1270mg

This Hungarian cabbage, sausage, and bean soup is a delicious and hearty dish, combining the rich flavors of smoked Hungarian sausage with savory vegetables, beans, and cabbage. The result is a warming meal that's perfect for cold weather.

History of the Dish

The roots of this soup lie deeply in Hungarian cuisine, a reflection of the country's love for hearty, comfort foods. Cabbage and sausage are common ingredients in many traditional Hungarian recipes, often paired together in stews and soups. The use of paprika, which is iconic in Hungarian cooking, also plays a key role in the soups flavor. This dish was born from the humble, everyday meals of Hungarian peasants who used simple ingredients from the land to create nourishing meals for the family.

Regional Variations

While Hungarian Cabbage, Sausage, and Bean Soup is a beloved dish across Hungary, regional variations exist. In some areas, the soup might be made with different types of beans or served with a dollop of sour cream to balance the spiciness. Some versions also include smoked meats, which contribute a rich depth of flavor to the broth. The specific type of sausage used can also vary depending on local preferences, with some regions favoring a spicier sausage and others opting for a milder flavor.

Differences from Similar Dishes

While this soup may appear similar to other Eastern European cabbage soups, such as Polish bigos or Ukrainian borscht, there are key differences. The use of Hungarian sausage, specifically the smoked, paprika-flavored variety, sets this soup apart from its Eastern European counterparts. Additionally, the inclusion of beans, particularly cannellini or great northern beans, gives this dish a heartier, more filling quality compared to other cabbage-based soups, which may not always contain beans.

Where It Is Typically Served

Hungarian Cabbage, Sausage, and Bean Soup is a staple in Hungarian homes, particularly in colder months. It is often served in casual, family settings or at local festivals where traditional Hungarian dishes are celebrated. In Hungary, this soup may be found at rural inns or village eateries, where it is often accompanied by fresh, crusty bread. Its a dish that provides both warmth and sustenance, making it a perfect meal after a long day of work or during a gathering with friends and family.

Interesting Facts

• The Hungarian sausage used in this recipe is typically made from pork and flavored with a variety of spices, including paprika, garlic, and caraway seeds.
• The soup is often enjoyed with a side of sourdough or rye bread to help soak up the delicious broth.
• Cabbage is a key ingredient in Hungarian cuisine, used in everything from soups to stews to fermented dishes like sauerkraut.
• The use of beans in soups is common throughout Eastern Europe, as they are an affordable and protein-rich food source that helps stretch the meal.
• While the soup is filling on its own, some people may add a spoonful of sour cream to enhance the richness and add a touch of tanginess to the dish.

Conclusion

Hungarian Cabbage, Sausage, and Bean Soup is more than just a mealit's a culinary journey into the heart of Hungarys rich food traditions. With its balance of flavors and warming nature, its a dish that has stood the test of time and continues to be enjoyed by people of all ages. Whether you're enjoying it at a local Hungarian restaurant or preparing it at home, this soup brings comfort and a taste of Eastern Europe to your table.

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