Red Beans Cabbage Soup

Warm up with a comforting bowl of Red Beans Cabbage Soup, a hearty and nutritious dish that is perfect for chilly days. This recipe combines the richness of red beans, the crunchiness of cabbage, and a medley of aromatic spices to create a soup that is both satisfying and flavorful. With the convenience of a slow cooker, you can let the flavors meld together as the soup simmers to perfection.

INGREDIENTS:

• 15 oz can red beans, drained and rinsed
• 4 cups water
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 5 oz can tomato paste
• 1/2 head green cabbage, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, seeded and diced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• Salt

PREPARATIONS:

1. In a slow cooker, combine the drained and rinsed red beans, water, minced garlic, bay leaf, dried thyme, tomato paste, chopped green cabbage, diced green bell pepper, diced onion, diced carrot, black pepper, and a pinch of salt.
2. Stir all the ingredients well to ensure they are evenly mixed.
3. Cover the slow cooker with a lid and cook on high for 8 hours, allowing the flavors to develop and the vegetables to soften.
4. After the cooking time is complete, give the soup a good stir to incorporate all the ingredients.
5. Season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
6. Ladle the Red Beans Cabbage Soup into bowls and serve hot.

YIELD: This recipe serves approximately 6 people.

TOTAL TIME: The total time required for this recipe is 8 hours and 10 minutes.

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

• For a smoky flavor, you can add a dash of liquid smoke to the soup.
• Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic, thyme, or other spices according to your taste preferences.
• If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender or transfer a portion to a regular blender, then return it to the slow cooker.

NUTRITIONAL INFORMATION PER SERVING:

• Calories: 275
• Fat: 0.9g
• Carbohydrates: 51.9g
• Sugar: 8.6g
• Protein: 18.4g
• Cholesterol: 0mg

TIPS:

• Serve the Red Beans Cabbage Soup with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice for added freshness.
• This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for a few days, allowing the flavors to further develop. Simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
• Experiment with different types of beans or additional vegetables to customize the soup to your liking.

In conclusion, Red Beans Cabbage Soup is a wholesome and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy meal. The combination of red beans, cabbage, and a blend of aromatic spices creates a soup that is both nourishing and flavorful. The slow cooking method allows the ingredients to meld together, resulting in a rich and satisfying soup that is sure to warm you up from the inside out.

This recipe is not only delicious but also provides a good balance of nutrients. With its high fiber content from the beans and vegetables, it promotes digestive health and helps you feel satisfied. Additionally, it is low in fat and cholesterol, making it a heart-healthy option for those watching their dietary intake.

The convenience of using a slow cooker allows you to effortlessly prepare this soup with minimal hands-on time. Simply gather the ingredients, add them to the slow cooker, and let it work its magic. The aroma that fills your home as the soup simmers for hours will make the wait worthwhile.

Whether you’re seeking a comforting meal or looking to incorporate more plant-based dishes into your diet, Red Beans Cabbage Soup is a fantastic choice. It is not only nourishing and flavorful but also versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite spices and vegetables.

So, grab a bowl, cozy up, and savor the goodness of this delightful Red Beans Cabbage Soup.