Why You’ll Love This Pressure Cooker Russian Sweet & Sour Cabbage Soup Recipe
Why is this Pressure Cooker Russian Sweet & Sour Cabbage Soup a must-try for your next meal? Well, it’s a delightful blend of tangy and sweet flavors that warms the soul.
I love how quick and easy it’s to prepare, especially on busy weeknights. The pressure cooker locks in all the vibrant tastes, making each spoonful a comforting experience.
Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate healthy ingredients into my diet without sacrificing flavor. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll want to make it a regular dish in your rotation.
It’s simply irresistible!
Ingredients of Pressure Cooker Russian Sweet & Sour Cabbage Soup
When it comes to making a delicious pot of Pressure Cooker Russian Sweet & Sour Cabbage Soup, having the right ingredients is key. This soup is a fantastic combination of sweet and tangy flavors, and trust me, you’ll want all of these components to create that perfect balance.
So, let’s gather our ingredients and get ready for a comforting cooking adventure that’s sure to warm your heart (and your tummy).
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1/4 cup oil
- 4 tablespoons butter or margarine
- 1 onion, thinly sliced
- 4 cups grated red cabbage
- 4 cups grated white cabbage
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup seedless raisins
- 1/2 cup dark brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- 2 quarts chicken stock
- 1 cup dry white wine
- 1/4 cup cider vinegar
Now, before you rush off to the grocery store, let’s chat a bit about these ingredients. You might be wondering about the choice of cabbage.
Red cabbage adds a vibrant color and a slightly peppery flavor, while the white cabbage is milder and sweet. Together, they create a beautiful bowl of soup that’s not just tasty but also visually appealing.
Oh, and if you’re not a fan of raisins, I get it—some folks have strong feelings about them. You could swap them out for some chopped apples for a different sweet touch.
And don’t forget the sour cream on top; it adds a lovely creaminess that balances the soup’s tanginess. Just a little tip from someone who’s made the “no sour cream” mistake before—it’s a game changer.
How to Make Pressure Cooker Russian Sweet & Sour Cabbage Soup

Alright, let’s plunge into making this delicious Pressure Cooker Russian Sweet & Sour Cabbage Soup. First things first, grab your pressure cooker and get ready to turn those ingredients into a cozy bowl of goodness.
Start by heating 1/4 cup of oil along with 4 tablespoons of butter (or margarine, if that’s your jam) in the pressure cooker. You’ll want to do this until the butter starts to foam, which is that magical moment when you know you’re on the right track. Trust me, the aroma of melting butter is enough to make anyone’s stomach rumble.
Once your butter is foaming, toss in 1 thinly sliced onion and both types of cabbage—4 cups of grated red cabbage and 4 cups of grated white cabbage. Stir them together until the cabbage wilts a bit. This step is like giving your veggies a gentle hug.
Next, add in the two cloves of minced garlic, 1/2 cup of seedless raisins, and 1/2 cup of dark brown sugar. Now, you might be thinking, “Raisins in soup?” Yes, I know it sounds a little odd, but they bring a delightful sweetness that balances the tanginess of the soup so well. Trust the process.
Now, sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of caraway seeds, then pour in 2 quarts of chicken stock, 1 cup of dry white wine, and 1/4 cup of cider vinegar. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed, then cover your pressure cooker with its lid.
Now, here comes the fun part. Set the heat to high and wait for the cooker’s control to jiggle, which means it’s reached pressure. Once that happens, reduce the heat and let it cook for about 10 minutes. It’s like a mini-vacation for your soup—just let it chill out in there.
When the time’s up (and you’re probably getting pretty hungry by now), remove it from the heat and let it cool for about 5 minutes. Then, run some cold water over the cooker to finish reducing the pressure. This is the point where you can finally lift the lid and let the intoxicating aroma fill your kitchen.
Want an extra touch of indulgence? Serve your soup with a dollop of sour cream on top—it’s totally worth it, making every spoonful creamy and dreamy. Enjoy your creation; you’ve earned it!
Pressure Cooker Russian Sweet & Sour Cabbage Soup Substitutions & Variations
If you’re looking to mix things up with your Pressure Cooker Russian Sweet & Sour Cabbage Soup, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to contemplate.
You can swap out the red cabbage for green cabbage or even kale for a different texture. For a kick, try adding some diced bell peppers or hot peppers.
If you’re not a fan of raisins, dried cranberries work well too. You can replace the chicken stock with vegetable stock for a vegetarian option.
Finally, experiment with different vinegars like red wine or balsamic for a unique twist on the sweet and sour flavor profile.
What to Serve with Pressure Cooker Russian Sweet & Sour Cabbage Soup
To enhance your experience with Pressure Cooker Russian Sweet & Sour Cabbage Soup, consider pairing it with crusty bread or hearty rolls.
The bread’s texture complements the soup perfectly, allowing you to soak up every delicious drop. I also love serving a dollop of sour cream on top to add creaminess and balance the flavors.
For a invigorating contrast, a light salad with a tangy vinaigrette works wonders. If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding some pickled vegetables on the side for an extra zing.
These pairings elevate the soup and create a delightful, satisfying meal. Enjoy!
Additional Tips & Notes
While preparing your Pressure Cooker Russian Sweet & Sour Cabbage Soup, keep a few tips in mind to enhance your cooking experience. First, don’t hesitate to adjust the sweetness; if you prefer it less sweet, reduce the brown sugar or raisins. I also recommend using fresh ingredients for the best flavor. If you want a thicker soup, consider blending a portion after cooking. Always let the pressure release naturally for a richer taste. Finally, garnishing with a dollop of sour cream adds a creamy contrast. Enjoy experimenting and making this dish your own!