Cozy “Undercover Healthy” Pork, Cabbage & Sauerkraut Soup

Cooking for Mom

As our parents get older, cooking for them becomes an act of love. I find myself wanting meals that truly nourish my mom—foods that support her health but still make her excited to sit down and eat. This soup is one of those quiet heroes: packed with vegetables, hearty protein, and gut-friendly sauerkraut, yet finished with just enough cream to feel a little indulgent.

It’s the kind of soup that tastes comforting and cozy while secretly being very good for you—my favorite kind of “undercover healthy.”

A taste of Eastern Europe in every spoonful—hearty, tangy, and oh-so cozy.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons neutral oil or butter

• 2 cups chopped onions

• 1 cup chopped carrots

• 1 cup chopped celery

• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1–2 pounds pork loin, cut into ½-inch cubes

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 4 cups chopped cabbage

• 6 cups chicken bone broth (or any stock you have on hand)

• 4 cups potatoes, cut into ½-inch cubes

• 1½ teaspoons dill weed

• 1 (14.5-oz) can sauerkraut, drained lightly if very briny

• 1 cup milk

• 2 tablespoons flour

• ¼ cup chopped parsley

• ¼–½ cup cream

Instructions

1. Build the base Heat oil or butter in a large pot over medium-low heat. Add onions, carrots, celery, garlic, and pork. Sauté gently for about 5 minutes, until onions are soft and translucent. Season with salt and pepper.

2. Simmer Stir in cabbage, broth, potatoes, dill, and sauerkraut. Bring to a gentle simmer and cook until vegetables reach your preferred tenderness. (I like mine quite soft and cozy.)

3. Thicken In a small bowl, whisk milk and flour to make a slurry. Stir it into the soup along with the parsley. Simmer about 8 minutes, until slightly thickened.

4. Finish Turn off the heat and stir in the cream. Adjust seasoning if needed.

To Serve

Ladle into bowls with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of parsley. Serve warm, preferably to someone you love.

Because sometimes the best medicine is a bowl of homemade soup. 💛

Inspired by the cozy flavors of Eastern Europe, where cabbage, pork, and sauerkraut turn simple ingredients into pure comfort.