Discover the authentic taste of Shchi, a classic Russian cabbage soup that’s versatile enough to be enjoyed with meat or as a hearty vegetarian dish. This easy-to-follow recipe includes tips for making a flavorful broth and customizing your Shchi to suit your dietary preferences. Perfect for warming up on a cold day, this nourishing soup is a staple in Russian cuisine.

Ingredients:

- 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded

- 1 large onion, chopped

- 2 carrots, grated

- 2 cloves garlic, minced

- 1-2 tablespoons vegetable oil

- 4 cups vegetable or beef broth

- 2 medium potatoes, diced

- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz) or 2 large fresh tomatoes, chopped

- 1 tablespoon tomato paste

- 1 bay leaf

- 1 teaspoon dried dill or 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped

- Salt and black pepper to taste

- 1 cup cooked meat (beef, pork, or chicken) or 1 cup cooked beans (for vegetarian option)

- 2 tablespoons vinegar or lemon juice (optional, for added tang)

- Sour cream for serving (optional)

Instructions:

Prepare the Vegetables:

  - Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.

  - Stir in the grated carrots and minced garlic, and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the carrots are tender.

Cook the Soup:

  - Add the shredded cabbage to the pot and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  - Pour in the broth, diced potatoes, diced tomatoes, and tomato paste. Stir well to combine.

  - Add the bay leaf and dried dill. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the potatoes and cabbage are tender.

Add Meat or Beans:

  - If using meat, add the cooked meat to the soup during the last 10 minutes of cooking. For a vegetarian option, stir in the cooked beans.

Season and Serve:

  - Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt, black pepper, and vinegar or lemon juice if desired.

  - Remove the bay leaf before serving.

  - Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with a dollop of sour cream if desired.

Enjoy your Shchi with crusty bread or a side of pickles for an authentic Russian meal!

Nutritional Values

Cabbage (1 medium head, shredded)

  - Approximately 250 calories

  - 1 gram of fat

  - 60 grams of carbohydrates

  - 10 grams of protein

Benefits: High in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. Supports digestion, immune health, and may help reduce inflammation.

Onion (1 large, chopped)

  - About 45 calories

  - 0.1 grams of fat

  - 11 grams of carbohydrates

  - 1 gram of protein

Benefits: Contains antioxidants and vitamins like vitamin C. Supports heart health and has anti-inflammatory properties.

Carrots (2, grated)

  - Approximately 80 calories

  - 0.4 grams of fat

  - 20 grams of carbohydrates

  - 2 grams of protein

Benefits: Rich in beta-carotene, which converts to vitamin A. Supports vision and immune health, and provides dietary fiber.

Garlic Cloves (2, minced)

  - About 13 calories

  - 0 grams of fat

  - 3 grams of carbohydrates

  - 0.6 grams of protein

Benefits: Known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Supports cardiovascular health and immune function.

Vegetable Oil (1-2 tablespoons)

  - About 240-480 calories (for 1-2 tablespoons)

  - 28-56 grams of fat

  - 0 grams of carbohydrates

  - 0 grams of protein

Benefits: Provides healthy fats for cooking and adds flavor. Use in moderation to manage calorie and fat intake.

Vegetable or Beef Broth (4 cups)

  - About 40 calories

  - 0 grams of fat

  - 10 grams of carbohydrates

  - 2 grams of protein

Beef Broth Nutritional Value:

  - About 60 calories

  - 2 grams of fat

  - 5 grams of carbohydrates

  - 7 grams of protein

Benefits: Adds flavor and liquid to the soup. Broth made from bones contains minerals and collagen, beneficial for joint health.

Potatoes (2 medium, diced)

  - Approximately 260 calories

  - 0.8 grams of fat

  - 60 grams of carbohydrates

  - 6 grams of protein

Benefits: Rich in carbohydrates for energy, and provides fiber and potassium for heart health and digestive support.

Diced Tomatoes (14.5 oz can or 2 large fresh tomatoes, chopped)

  - About 50 calories (for 1 cup of diced tomatoes)

  - 0.2 grams of fat

  - 11 grams of carbohydrates

  - 2 grams of protein

Benefits: Provides vitamin C, antioxidants, and lycopene, which supports heart health and may help reduce cancer risk.

Tomato Paste (1 tablespoon)

  - About 13 calories

  - 0 grams of fat

  - 3 grams of carbohydrates

  - 1 gram of protein

Benefits: Concentrates flavor and nutrients. Contains antioxidants and vitamins, supporting overall health.

Bay Leaf (1)

  - Negligible calories and macronutrients.

Benefits: Adds aromatic flavor and contains antioxidants. May support digestive health.

Dried Dill (1 teaspoon) or Fresh Dill (2 tablespoons, chopped)

  - About 6 calories (for 1 teaspoon dried dill)

  - 0.3 grams of fat

  - 1 gram of carbohydrates

  - 0.3 grams of protein

Benefits: Adds flavor and contains vitamins A, C, and K. Offers antioxidant properties and supports digestion.

Salt and Black Pepper (to taste)

Salt:

  - Minimal sodium intake depending on amount used.

Benefits: Essential for fluid balance and nerve function. Should be used in moderation to manage sodium intake.

Black Pepper :

  - About 6 calories (for 10-12 peppercorns)

  - 0.3 grams of fat

  - 1 gram of carbohydrates

  - 0.3 grams of protein

Benefits: Adds flavor and contains antioxidants. May support digestion and enhance nutrient absorption.

Cooked Meat (1 cup) or Cooked Beans (for vegetarian option)

  - Approximately 200-300 calories (depending on type and cut)

  - 10-20 grams of fat

  - 0 grams of carbohydrates

  - 20-30 grams of protein

Benefits: Provides high-quality protein and essential nutrients. Supports muscle health and overall well-being.

Cooked Beans Nutritional Value:

  - About 225 calories

  - 0.9 grams of fat

  - 40 grams of carbohydrates

  - 15 grams of protein

Benefits: Rich in protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Supports heart health and digestion.

Vinegar or Lemon Juice (2 tablespoons, optional)

  - About 6 calories

  - 0 grams of fat

  - 0 grams of carbohydrates

  - 0 grams of protein

Lemon Juice Nutritional Value:

  - About 8 calories

  - 0 grams of fat

  - 2 grams of carbohydrates

  - 0 grams of protein

Benefits: Adds tangy flavor. Contains antioxidants and vitamin C, which supports immune function and may improve digestion.

Sour Cream (for serving, optional)

  - About 60 calories (per 2 tablespoons)

  - 5 grams of fat

  - 2 grams of carbohydrates

  - 1 gram of protein

Benefits: Adds creaminess and flavor. Provides calcium and beneficial bacteria for gut health. Use in moderation due to its fat content.