Cabbage soup is a timeless comfort food known for its simplicity, health benefits, and versatility.
Whether you’re looking for a low-calorie meal, a detox-friendly dish, or just a warm bowl of goodness, this soup is both satisfying and nourishing
This recipe has you covered, Packed with fresh vegetables and savory broth.
This Cabbage soup recipe is perfect for meal prep, as it reheats beautifully and pairs well with a slice of crusty bread or a light salad.
Plus, it’s highly customizable—add your favorite spices or proteins for a personalized twist.
Ready to make a pot of this wholesome goodness? Let’s get started!
Cabbage soup Recipe ( Step By Step):
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Use a large, heavy-bottomed pot to prevent burning and ensure even cooking. Heat about 2–3 tablespoons of olive oil until it shimmers slightly, which indicates it’s hot enough to sauté the vegetables.
Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
- Chop the onion, carrots, and celery into small, evenly sized pieces to ensure even cooking. These three ingredients form the base of many soups and stews, often referred to as a mirepoix. Stir them frequently as they cook for about 5 minutes, or until they become soft and slightly translucent. This step develops the flavor of the soup.
Stir in minced garlic and bell pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add freshly minced garlic and diced bell pepper to the pot. Garlic cooks quickly, so stir constantly to prevent it from burning. The bell pepper will start to soften, and the aroma of the garlic will intensify, signaling it’s ready for the next step.
Add chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes (with juice), and vegetable or chicken broth. Stir to combine.
- Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces, ensuring it’s not too large to fit comfortably on a spoon. Add it along with the canned diced tomatoes, including their juices, which enhance the soup’s flavor and richness. Pour in your choice of broth (vegetable for a vegetarian option or chicken for added depth). Stir everything together to evenly distribute the ingredients.
Season with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Sprinkle in the spices and seasoning, which add depth and warmth to the soup. Stir to ensure they’re well incorporated. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, which helps the flavors meld and softens the cabbage quickly.
Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the cabbage and vegetables are tender.
- Lower the heat to a gentle simmer (just a few small bubbles breaking the surface). Cover the pot with a lid to trap the steam, which helps cook the vegetables thoroughly. Check occasionally and stir to prevent sticking or uneven cooking. After 25–30 minutes, the cabbage and other vegetables should be soft but not mushy.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
- Before serving, taste the soup and add more salt, pepper, or spices if desired. Fresh parsley, chopped and sprinkled on top, adds a burst of color and a fresh, herbaceous note to brighten the dish. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cabbage Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 medium green cabbage chopped
- 1 large onion diced
- 3 carrots sliced
- 2 celery stalks sliced
- 1 bell pepper chopped
- 3 garlic cloves minced
- 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp salt or to taste
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and bell pepper. Cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes (with juice), and vegetable or chicken broth. Stir to combine.
- Season with Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the cabbage and vegetables are tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Notes
FAQs:
Q1: Is cabbage soup good for weight loss?
Yes! It’s low in calories and packed with fiber, making it a filling, weight-loss-friendly option.
Q2: Can I add protein to this soup?
Absolutely! Add shredded chicken, cooked ground turkey, or beans for extra protein.
Q3: Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes, simply use vegetable broth and skip any meat-based additions.
Q4: How do I store cabbage soup?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Q5: Can I freeze cabbage soup?
Yes, cabbage soup freezes well! Let it cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat when needed.
Conclusion:
Cabbage soup is the epitome of wholesome cooking, offering a delightful mix of flavors and nutrients in every spoonful.
Whether you’re looking to enjoy a light meal, embark on a detox, or simply savor a bowl of homemade comfort, this recipe delivers.
With minimal prep and budget-friendly ingredients, this soup is as easy on your wallet as it is on your waistline.
Enjoy it as is, or customize it with your favorite additions to make it your own. Gather your ingredients, and treat yourself to a warm, hearty pot of cabbage soup today!