Caramelized Onion and Savoy Cabbage Chowder with Thyme

Green cabbage can be substituted for savoy cabbage in this hearty chowder.

ingredient list

Serves 6

• 1/2 cup apple cider
• 1 Tbs. low-sodium soy sauce
• 2 tsp. apple cider vinegar
• 2 Tbs. olive oil, divided
• 2 Tbs. unsalted butter, divided
• 12 oz. savoy cabbage, cut into large dice (6 to 7 cups)
• 3 large onions, cut into large dice (1 1/2 lb.)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (1 Tbs.)
• 2 Tbs. fresh thyme leaves, roughly chopped, divided
• 3 cups Cheese Croutons (recipe, p. 61)

Directions

1. Combine apple cider, soy sauce, and vinegar in small bowl.

2. Heat 1 Tbs. olive oil and 1 Tbs. butter in skillet over medium-high heat. Add cabbage, and season with salt, if desired. Cook 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. Transfer to shallow bowl.

3. Heat remaining 1 Tbs. oil and 1 Tbs. butter in large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onions, and season with salt, if desired. Cover, and cook 8 to 10 minutes, or until onions are softened, stirring occasionally. Uncover, and cook 16 to 18 minutes, or until onions are golden brown. Add garlic, 1 1/2 Tbs. thyme, and apple cider mixture, stirring to scrape up browned bits on pan bottom. Bring to a simmer, and cook 1 minute. Add cabbage and 5 cups water, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to medium-low, partially cover, and cook 
15 minutes. Serve topped with Cheese Croutons and remaining 1 1/2 tsp. thyme.