Cabbage soup is a simple, nutritious, and comforting dish that’s perfect for any time of the year. Packed with vegetables and herbs, it’s a low-calorie meal that’s both filling and full of flavor. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a side dish, or a meal to kick-start a healthy eating routine, cabbage soup is the ideal choice.
This recipe is not only easy to make, but it’s also customizable, allowing you to add your favorite veggies or protein for an even heartier dish. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious cabbage soup!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For a healthy and hearty cabbage soup, gather the following ingredients:
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 large can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes (or fresh tomatoes, chopped)
- 6 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for added depth of flavor)
- Fresh parsley or basil, for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Sauté the Vegetables
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
2. Add the Cabbage and Tomatoes
Add the chopped cabbage to the pot and stir to combine with the sautéed vegetables. Then, add the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and give everything a good stir.
3. Pour in the Broth and Seasonings
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, and add the dried thyme, oregano, bay leaf, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
4. Simmer the Soup
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally and check the seasoning, adjusting with more salt and pepper if needed.
5. Serve and Garnish
Once the cabbage is tender, remove the bay leaf from the soup. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired. Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.
Why This Cabbage Soup is Special
Low-Calorie and Nutritious: Cabbage is low in calories but high in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making this soup a healthy choice for weight management or detox.
Packed with Vegetables: This soup is loaded with nutritious vegetables like cabbage, carrots, celery, and tomatoes, giving it a rich, comforting flavor.
Customizable: Feel free to add extra veggies (like zucchini, potatoes, or bell peppers) or protein (such as chicken, beans, or lentils) to make the soup heartier.
Easy to Make: With just a few simple ingredients, this cabbage soup is quick to prepare and requires minimal cooking time.
Perfect for Meal Prep: This soup keeps well in the fridge for several days and can be frozen for later use, making it a great option for meal prep.
Tips for the Perfect Cabbage Soup
Use fresh cabbage: Fresh cabbage will give the soup a better texture and flavor than pre-shredded cabbage. If you prefer a finer texture, you can chop the cabbage into smaller pieces.
Add protein: For a more filling meal, consider adding cooked chicken, turkey, beans, or even quinoa for extra protein.
Spice it up: If you like your soup with a bit of heat, feel free to add red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño pepper for extra spice.
Let it sit: Cabbage soup often tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to develop. Make it ahead of time for an even more flavorful dish.
For a creamier version: If you prefer a creamy soup, blend a portion of the soup using an immersion blender, or add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt when serving.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen cabbage?
While fresh cabbage is recommended for the best texture, you can use frozen cabbage if that’s what you have on hand. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to the soup.
Can I add meat to this soup?
Yes! You can add diced cooked chicken, turkey, or even sausage to make the soup more hearty. Just add the meat after sautéing the vegetables and let it simmer with the broth to absorb the flavors.
How long does this soup keep?
This cabbage soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days in an airtight container. It also freezes well, so you can store it for up to 3 months. Just let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! To make cabbage soup in a slow cooker, add all the ingredients (except the broth) to the slow cooker. Pour in the broth and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the cabbage is tender.
Final Thoughts
Cabbage soup is a versatile, healthy, and hearty meal that’s perfect for anyone looking for a comforting dish. With its simple ingredients and nourishing flavors, this soup is a great way to enjoy a warm meal without any guilt. Whether you’re looking to enjoy it as a light lunch or a filling dinner, cabbage soup is the perfect option.
Try this recipe today, and enjoy the wholesome, delicious goodness that comes with every spoonful!