Hearty Cabbage Soup
Hearty Cabbage Soup evokes warmth and comfort, making it the perfect dish for chilly nights or a quick weeknight dinner. I remember the first time I tried this delightful blend of vegetables; it was like a cozy hug in a bowl. Rich in flavor and packed with nutrients, it’s not just a meal — it’s an experience. Imagine enjoying this hearty soup filled with tender cabbage, potatoes, and fragrant herbs while the world outside is frosty. It’s the kind of recipe that brings people together around the dinner table, and it’s just as satisfying to savor as it is to make.
Reasons to Try It
If you’re looking for a nutritious, budget-friendly meal that can be whipped up in under an hour, this Hearty Cabbage Soup is your answer. It’s the epitome of comfort food, flavored with fresh thyme and caraway seeds that give it a unique twist. Versatile enough to enjoy as a main dish or a comforting side, this recipe shines during family dinners or meal prep sessions.
"I never knew cabbage could be this delicious! The flavors meld together beautifully, and it makes for a satisfying meal all week long." — A happy home cook
The Cooking Process Explained
Creating this Hearty Cabbage Soup is straightforward and rewarding. You’ll start by sautéing your aromatics to build the soup’s foundation, then combine the veggies and allow them to simmer until tender. The process is simple enough for beginner cooks but deliciously satisfying for seasoned chefs looking to enjoy a hearty bowl of goodness.
What You’ll Need
- 1-2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 2 sticks of celery, sliced
- 4 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (plus more to taste)
- 2 teaspoons fresh thyme
- 2 teaspoons caraway seed (optional but recommended)
- 2 cups gold potatoes, peeled and diced
- 10-12 cups green cabbage, chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 8 cups low-sodium vegetable broth (or 4 cups broth and 4 cups water)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Feel free to substitute the vegetables according to what you have. Kale or spinach can easily be swapped for cabbage, and different types of potatoes can also work if you’re in a pinch!
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced celery, and carrots. Sauté for about 3 to 5 minutes until they start to brown slightly.
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Add Flavor: Incorporate the minced garlic, black pepper, fresh thyme, and caraway seeds to the pot. Sauté for another minute, until fragrant.
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Combine Ingredients: Stir in the diced potatoes, chopped cabbage, crushed tomatoes, and vegetable broth. It may look a bit thick now, but the cabbage will release moisture as it cooks.
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Simmer Away: Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, lower the heat to medium and let it simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and translucent.
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Season & Serve: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, if necessary. Ladle the hearty soup into bowls and enjoy hot. Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days.
Best Ways to Enjoy It
Hearty Cabbage Soup can be served in a variety of ways. You might enjoy it with crusty whole-grain bread for a wholesome meal, or garnished with freshly ground pepper and a sprinkle of your favorite cheese for that extra touch. You could also whip up a simple side salad to add some crunch to your meal or pair it with a warm, cheesy toast.
Storage and Reheating Tips
To keep your soup fresh, store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It lasts well for up to 5 days, making it perfect for meal prep. When reheating, do so on the stovetop for the best texture, adding a splash of water or broth if it seems thick. If you find yourself with too many leftovers, this soup freezes beautifully! Just portion it into freezer-friendly containers and keep it for up to three months.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Herb hacks: If you prefer a more intense flavor, consider adding dried thyme or using herb paste instead of fresh.
- Texture tip: For a heartier texture, let the soup simmer a bit longer until the vegetables are really soft and the flavors have melded.
- Delicious add-ins: Feel free to toss in some beans or lentils for added protein, making this soup even more filling.
Creative Twists
- Spice it up: Consider adding some chili flakes for a spicy kick, or a splash of vinegar for brightness.
- Seasonal variations: Try adding seasonal veggies, such as zucchini in the summer or sweet potatoes in the fall.
- Herb variations: Swap the thyme for dill or oregano to give the soup a different flavor profile.
Your Questions Answered
How long does it take to prepare this soup?
Total prep and cooking times are about 30 to 45 minutes, making it a quick option for a weeknight dinner.
Can I substitute the cabbage?
Absolutely! Other hearty greens like kale or collard greens can be great replacements.
Is this soup vegan-friendly?
Yes! This recipe is completely vegan, especially when using vegetable broth.
How can I make it spicier?
Add some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when cooking for an extra kick.
Can I store leftovers?
Yes, store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze for future meals.
Indulging in a warm bowl of Hearty Cabbage Soup is a delightful way to nourish both body and soul. Whether it’s a family dinner or a solo meal, this comforting recipe will always satisfy. Enjoy making it, and remember that cooking is an adventure — don’t be afraid to make it your own!
Hearty Cabbage Soup
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, sliced celery, and carrots. Sauté for about 3 to 5 minutes until they start to brown slightly.
- Incorporate the minced garlic, black pepper, fresh thyme, and caraway seeds to the pot. Sauté for another minute, until fragrant.
- Stir in the diced potatoes, chopped cabbage, crushed tomatoes, and vegetable broth. It may look a bit thick now, but the cabbage will release moisture as it cooks.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, lower the heat to medium and let it simmer for 12 to 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and translucent.
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, if necessary. Ladle the hearty soup into bowls and enjoy hot.
