Cabbage, Potato, and Leek Soup

Here is a simple yet hearty soup that tastes good on a cool night. Even better, the main ingredient is cabbage, which is a very undervalued vegetable. The key is to cook the cabbage until it begins to caramelize. The potatoes are an excellent addition, as they start breaking down and thickening up the soup. This is from the NY Times.

Ingredients

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 medium leeks, white and light green parts, thinly sliced 8 cups shredded cabbage
• 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
• 1-2 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 cups chicken or vegetable stock
• 2 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
• 2 thyme branches
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Grated Parmigiano-Reggiano, to serve.

Instructions

1. Melt the butter in a large pot over medium-high heat, add the leeks and cook until soft and golden around the edges, 5 to 7 minutes. 
2. Add the cabbage and garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until cabbage begins to caramelize, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in potatoes, stock, 4 cups water, salt and thyme. Bring soup to a simmer and cook, partly covered, until potatoes begin to fall apart, 45 to 50 minutes. Add more water, as needed, to reach the desired consistency. Season with black pepper and serve, topped with cheese.

Serves 6.