Traditional Russian Cabbage Soup (Shchi)

Fresh cabbage soup, or shchi, is one of Russia's national dishes, and as with most dishes like this, the recipes vary from cook to cook and from region to region. This cabbage soup recipe is meatless and contains no sauerkraut. It's a mild but hearty vegetarian soup with fresh cabbage, potatoes, and tomatoes.

For a richer flavor, use vegetable broth instead of water, and top the soup with fresh dill and sour cream. Serve with rye bread for a filling lunch or dinner or offer as the first course of a winter menu.

3 tablespoons unsalted butter

1 large onion, chopped

1 large head cabbage, shredded

1 large carrot, peeled and coarsely grated

1 stalk celery, chopped

1 bay leaf

Black peppercorns, to taste

8 cups vegetable stock, or water

2 large russet potatoes, peeled and coarsely chopped

2 large tomatoes, peeled, seeded, and chopped, or a 14-ounce can diced tomatoes, undrained

Salt, to taste

Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Sour cream, for garnish

Fresh dill, for garnish

Note: Ingredients may have been altered from the original.

Directions at thespruceeats.com

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