The Best Cabbage Soup
The aroma of simmering vegetables wafting through the kitchen is a sure way to warm your heart and soul. There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of steaming cabbage soup. This recipe isn’t just any soup; it brings together fresh ingredients like green cabbage, carrots, and fragrant herbs in a delightful medley that’s both nutritious and satisfying. It’s the kind of dish I often turn to when I need a quick yet wholesome meal—perfect for those busy weeknights or chilly weekends when all you want is a cozy hug in a bowl.
Why you’ll love this dish
If you’re looking for a recipe that checks all the boxes for health, taste, and simplicity, look no further. This cabbage soup is quick to prepare, budget-friendly, and makes great leftovers—ideal for meal prepping lunches for the week. Not only is it comforting, but it’s also loaded with vitamins and minerals, making it a guilt-free indulgence. This soup shines at family gatherings or serves as a light dinner option after a heavy holiday meal.
"I couldn’t believe how flavorsome this cabbage soup was! Even my kids who usually shy away from greens were asking for seconds!" – A happy home cook
The cooking process explained
Getting started is a breeze. With just a few fresh ingredients, you’ll be able to whip up this cabbage soup in under an hour. The process involves sautéing, simmering, and seasoning—three simple steps that result in a hearty, delicious soup. It’s a straightforward recipe that invites culinary creativity, making it accessible for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs eager for a satisfying dish.
In this tasty adventure, you’ll begin by sautéing aromatic vegetables, move on to cooking them until they’re tender, and finally, let them bathe in a delicious broth enriched with tomatoes and herbs. Ready to dive in? Let’s gather our ingredients!
What you’ll need
To create this lovely cabbage soup, ensure you have the following on hand:
- 1 medium head green cabbage, chopped
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing
Feel free to customize the recipe: swapping vegetable broth for chicken broth can impart a richer flavor, and use fresh thyme if you have it on hand.
Step-by-step instructions
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Preparation: Start by washing and chopping your vegetables. Having everything prepped makes the cooking process smoother.
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Sautéing: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
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Cooking the Vegetables: Once the vegetables are tender, mix in the chopped cabbage. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cabbage begins to wilt.
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Adding Liquid: Pour in the vegetable broth and undrained diced tomatoes. Stir well to combine everything.
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Seasoning and Simmering: Add the dried thyme, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld beautifully.
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Final Touches: Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you’d like a little kick, a dash of hot sauce can elevate this soup even more!
Best ways to enjoy it
Serving cabbage soup is an art. You can ladle it into warm, rustic bowls and top with a sprinkle of fresh herbs for an inviting presentation. Pair it with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a balanced meal. If you want to elevate your dish, consider a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated cheese on top!
Storage and reheating tips
Leftovers? No problem! Store any extra cabbage soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or vegetable broth to loosen it up. You can also freeze portions of the soup for up to 2-3 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
Helpful cooking tips
- When chopping the cabbage, try to cut it into even pieces for uniform cooking.
- If you want to add protein, consider incorporating beans or lentils. They blend wonderfully with the veggies and make the soup even heartier.
- For a deeper flavor, let the soup simmer a bit longer if time permits!
Creative twists
This recipe is a blank canvas! Here are some fun variations to get your creativity flowing:
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.
- Toss in different vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or potatoes according to what you have.
- Spice it up with Italian sausage or diced ham for a non-vegetarian version.
- Go international by adding curry powder for an Indian twist!
Your questions answered
How long does it take to prepare this cabbage soup?
The total prep and cooking time is around 45 minutes, mainly due to the simmering.
Can I make this soup vegan?
Absolutely! As written, it’s already vegan-friendly due to the vegetable broth and lack of animal products.
What’s the best way to store leftovers?
Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 2-3 months.
Can I substitute fresh herbs for dried ones?
Yes! If you’re using fresh thyme, you’ll need about three times the amount of the dried variety. Start small and adjust to taste.
So, gather your ingredients and let the cozy experience of making this cabbage soup lift your spirits and satisfy your cravings. It’s not just a recipe; it’s a delightful way to nourish and comfort!
Cabbage Soup
Ingredients
Method
- Wash and chop all the vegetables.
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Add the chopped cabbage to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cabbage begins to wilt.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and undrained diced tomatoes. Stir well to combine.
- Add the dried thyme, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add a dash of hot sauce if desired.
