Description

This nourishing cabbage soup is packed with fresh vegetables, gentle herbs, and hearty flavors. It’s naturally low in calories, budget-friendly, and incredibly comforting, making it a perfect choice for light meals, meal prep, or boosting your daily vegetable intake.

Introduction

Cabbage soup is a timeless classic that brings together simplicity, nutrition, and warm comfort in one pot. It’s colorful, filling, and easy to customize based on what you have at home. Whether you are trying to eat healthier, lose weight, or just enjoy a delicious homemade soup, this recipe offers everything you need. Below, you’ll find a step-by-step guide to creating the perfect cabbage soup, along with variations and helpful tips to make it your own.

Ingredients

Basic Cabbage Soup

1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
1 large onion, diced
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
1 cup green beans, trimmed and chopped
1–2 zucchini, sliced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried basil
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)

Optional Add-Ins

1 bell pepper, diced
1 cup spinach or kale
1–2 potatoes, diced
1–2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Vegetables

Wash and chop all vegetables before starting. Slice the cabbage, onions, carrots, celery, zucchini, and green beans. Mince the garlic and set it aside. Having everything prepped makes cooking easier and faster.

Step 2: Sauté the Base

In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes, or until the onions turn soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Soup

Add the chopped cabbage to the pot. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the diced tomatoes with their juice. Add the zucchini, green beans, thyme, basil, salt, and pepper. If using, add bay leaves and red pepper flakes. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 30–40 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender.

Step 4: Final Touches

Remove bay leaves before serving. Stir in spinach or kale during the last 2–3 minutes of cooking to wilt them slightly. Taste the soup and adjust salt or seasonings as needed. Serve hot and garnish with fresh herbs for extra freshness.

Variations

1. Protein-Packed Version

Add cooked chicken, turkey, beef, beans, or lentils to make the soup more filling. Mix them in during the last 10–15 minutes of cooking.

2. International Flavor Twists

Mexican Style: Add cumin, jalapeños, and finish with lime and cilantro.
Italian Style: Add Italian seasoning and top with Parmesan cheese.
Asian Style: Add soy sauce, ginger, and finish with green onions.

3. Creamy Cabbage Soup

Stir in coconut milk, cream, or evaporated milk during the final minutes of cooking for a smooth, creamy texture.

Tips for Success

Use fresh vegetables for the best flavor and texture.
Cut vegetables in similar sizes so they cook evenly.
Taste and adjust seasonings throughout the cooking process.
Let the soup rest for a while—the flavor gets even better the next day.
Add leafy greens at the end to preserve their color and nutrients.

Storage Tips

Refrigerate leftovers in a sealed container for 3–4 days.
Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a simple salad.
Add lemon juice for brightness.
Top with hot sauce if you like extra heat.

FAQs

Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes. Cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours.

Can I skip tomatoes?
Yes, but they add acidity and richness. Replace with extra broth if needed.

Can I add pasta or rice?
Yes, but cook them separately and add just before serving.

Is cabbage soup good for weight loss?
It’s naturally low in calories and high in fiber, making it a satisfying, healthy option.

Conclusion

This Ultimate Cabbage Soup is comforting, healthy, and endlessly adaptable. From its nourishing vegetables to its customizable flavors, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Whether served as a light meal or a flavorful starter, it’s always a warm and satisfying choice.