Cabbage soup is a wholesome, comforting, and incredibly nutritious dish that has been enjoyed in kitchens worldwide for generations. Whether you’re looking for a light meal, a budget-friendly option, or a nutritious detox recipe, this cabbage soup delivers on all fronts. Packed with fiber, vitamins, and a delightful medley of flavors, this recipe will keep you warm and satisfied.
In this article, we will cover everything you need to know about cabbage soup, including its health benefits, step-by-step cooking instructions, expert tips, variations, and frequently asked questions.
Table of contents
- Why You’ll Love This Cabbage Soup
- Ingredients for the Perfect Cabbage Soup
- Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
- Health Benefits of Cabbage Soup
- Expert Tips for the Best Flavor
- Variations and Customizations
- Serving Suggestions
- How to Store and Reheat Cabbage Soup
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- FAQs About Cabbage Soup
- Irresistible Reuben Crescent Bake: A Comforting Classic with a Twist
Why You’ll Love This Cabbage Soup
- Nutritious and Healthy: Low in calories but rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients that are easy to find.
- Easy to Make: A one-pot recipe that requires minimal effort.
- Versatile and Customizable: Can be adjusted with different vegetables, proteins, and spices.
- Great for Weight Loss: Often used in weight-loss diets due to its low-calorie content.
Ingredients for the Perfect Cabbage Soup
To prepare this hearty cabbage soup, you’ll need:
Vegetables:
- 🥬 1 medium cabbage, chopped
- 🥕 2 carrots, diced
- 🧅 1 onion, finely chopped
- 🫑 1 bell pepper, diced
- 🍅 2 cups of diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
- 🌿 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 🧄 3 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids & Seasonings:
- 🍲 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for extra flavor)
- 🧂 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 🌶️ ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 🫗 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 🌿 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 🌱 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 🌶️ ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
- 🍋 Juice of ½ lemon (for a fresh, bright flavor)
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until fragrant and soft.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables
Add the diced carrots, celery, and cabbage to the pot. Stir well to combine with the sautéed ingredients.
Step 3: Pour in the Broth and Tomatoes
Add the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes. Stir in salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 4: Simmer Until Tender
Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Step 5: Adjust Seasonings and Finish
Squeeze fresh lemon juice into the soup, stir well, and adjust the seasoning to your taste.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the hot cabbage soup into bowls and enjoy it with a slice of crusty bread or a side of brown rice.
Health Benefits of Cabbage Soup
Cabbage is an incredible superfood that provides numerous health benefits:
🥦 Rich in Vitamins and Minerals
- High in vitamin C (boosts immunity).
- Good source of vitamin K (supports bone health).
- Contains folate (essential for cell growth).
🥗 Aids in Digestion
- Packed with fiber, promoting gut health and preventing constipation.
- Contains probiotics when fermented, which support a healthy microbiome.
🔥 Supports Weight Loss
- Low in calories yet filling, making it ideal for weight management.
- Helps with detoxification and reducing bloating.
🫀 Good for Heart Health
- Rich in antioxidants, which reduce inflammation.
- Helps lower cholesterol and supports cardiovascular health.
Expert Tips for the Best Flavor
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cabbage and vegetables will give the best taste and texture.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Cooking onions, garlic, and bell pepper in olive oil first enhances the flavor.
- Simmer Slowly: Allow the soup to cook on low heat to deepen the flavors.
- Add Fresh Herbs: If possible, use fresh thyme and parsley for an extra burst of flavor.
- Enhance with Acid: A squeeze of lemon or a dash of vinegar balances the flavors beautifully.
Variations and Customizations
- 🥩 Add Protein: Include cooked chicken, turkey, or lean ground beef for a heartier version.
- 🍚 Add Grains: Stir in cooked quinoa, brown rice, or barley for extra sustenance.
- 🥣 Make It Creamy: Blend half the soup for a thicker, creamy texture.
- 🌶️ Spice It Up: Add jalapeños or chili powder for a spicy kick.
Serving Suggestions
- With Crusty Bread: Serve with whole-grain or sourdough bread.
- With a Side Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for a light meal.
- As a Starter: Serve as an appetizer before a main dish like grilled chicken or baked fish.
How to Store and Reheat Cabbage Soup
Refrigerator:
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Freezer:
Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before freezing.
Reheating:
- Stovetop: Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
- Microwave: Warm in 1-minute intervals, stirring between each.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Cabbage: It should be tender, not mushy.
- Skipping the Seasonings: Proper seasoning enhances the overall taste.
- Using Too Much Salt: The broth may already contain salt, so adjust accordingly.
- Forgetting the Acid: A bit of lemon or vinegar brightens the flavors.
Hearty and Flavorful Cabbage Soup Recipe – Easy & Nutritious
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This hearty and flavorful cabbage soup is a comforting and nutritious meal, perfect for a healthy diet or a cozy winter night. Packed with fresh vegetables and aromatic seasonings, this soup is easy to make and full of rich flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 medium cabbage: chopped
- 2 carrots: diced
- 1 onion: finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper: diced
- 2 cups diced tomatoes: fresh or canned
- 2 celery stalks: chopped
- 3 cloves garlic: minced
- 6 cups vegetable broth: or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt: adjust to taste
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes: optional for spice
- Juice of ½ lemon: for a fresh, bright flavor
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, garlic, and bell pepper. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until fragrant and soft.
- Add the diced carrots, celery, and cabbage to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes. Stir in salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice into the soup, stir well, and adjust the seasoning to taste.
- Ladle the hot cabbage soup into bowls and serve with crusty bread or a side of brown rice.
Notes
- For the best flavor, use fresh vegetables and allow the soup to simmer slowly.
- To make the soup heartier, add cooked chicken, turkey, or beans.
- You can spice it up with extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
- This soup freezes well for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 2 cups)
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 7 g
- Sodium: 320 mg
- Fat: 3 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 15 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
FAQs About Cabbage Soup
Yes! Cabbage soup is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great addition to a weight-loss diet.
Absolutely! Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours for deep, rich flavors.
You can add lean proteins like chicken or beans, or mix in grains like quinoa or rice.
Yes, cabbage soup freezes well. Store it in airtight containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
Pair it with whole-grain bread, a light salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
1 comment
Hearty and Flavorful Cabbage Soup Recipe