Shchi (Russian Cabbage Soup)

cabbage

🥗Healthier: kale

💰Cheaper: collard greens

Kale offers similar texture and nutrients.

sour cream

🥗Healthier: Greek yogurt

💰Cheaper: plain yogurt

Greek yogurt provides creaminess with fewer calories.

meat

🥗Healthier: tofu

💰Cheaper: mushrooms

Tofu adds protein while being budget-friendly.

vegetable broth

🥗Healthier: homemade broth

💰Cheaper: water with seasoning

Homemade broth is healthier and more flavorful.

Use 2 pork shanks and neck bones for the soup

Add 3 quarts of water to the pot

Pressure cook on high for one hour and let pressure drop naturally

Remove the meat, skim impurities from the stock, and shred the meat

Refrigerate the stock and meat overnight

In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil

Add 1 pound of shredded carrots and a pinch of salt, cover and cook until browned

Add 2 diced onions and more salt, cover until tender, then uncover and cook until translucent

Return the carrots to the pan, add 4 minced garlic cloves, and cook until aromatic

Add 2 cups of chopped canned tomatoes and cook until moisture evaporates

Degrease the stock and bring it to a simmer in an 8 quart pot

Peel and dice 4 potatoes, add them to the stock and cook until tender

Thinly slice 1 pound of cabbage and drain 25 ounces of sauerkraut, keeping the liquid

Once potatoes are tender, add cabbage, sauerkraut, and shredded meat

Add another quart of water and simmer until cabbage is almost tender

Stir in the sofrito and adjust seasoning with sauerkraut brine

Add bay leaves and simmer for 15 minutes

Serve with a dollop of sour cream

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level: