Hearty Cabbage Soup
Warm, comforting, and packed with vegetables, Cabbage Soup is a timeless dish enjoyed across many cultures. Whether you’re looking for a light, healthy meal or a cozy bowl of homemade soup, this recipe delivers rich flavor with simple, wholesome ingredients. Easy to prepare and budget-friendly, cabbage soup is perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or chilly days.
Why Cabbage Soup Is So Popular
Cabbage soup has long been appreciated for its simplicity and versatility. Cabbage is affordable, widely available, and absorbs flavors beautifully as it cooks. When simmered with vegetables, herbs, and broth, it becomes tender and slightly sweet, making the soup satisfying without being heavy.
This soup can be adapted to be vegetarian, vegan, or hearty with meat, depending on your preferences.
Ingredients
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 medium onion, chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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3 carrots, sliced
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2 celery stalks, chopped
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1 medium head green cabbage, chopped
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1 can (14.5 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes
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6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
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1 teaspoon paprika
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½ teaspoon dried thyme
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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Optional: 1 bay leaf, fresh parsley for garnish
Optional additions:
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Cooked ground beef or sausage
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Potatoes or beans
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Red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions
1. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 4–5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add Vegetables
Stir in carrots and celery, cooking for 3–4 minutes to slightly soften. Add chopped cabbage and cook for another 2–3 minutes until it begins to wilt.
3. Simmer
Add diced tomatoes, broth, paprika, thyme, bay leaf (if using), salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until vegetables are tender.
4. Adjust Seasoning
Remove bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or spices as desired.
5. Serve
Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers.
Tips for the Best Cabbage Soup
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Chop evenly: Uniform vegetable sizes ensure even cooking.
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Don’t overcook: Cabbage should be tender but not mushy.
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Enhance flavor: A splash of vinegar or lemon juice brightens the soup.
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Make ahead: Cabbage soup tastes even better the next day.
Variations
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Vegetarian/Vegan: Use vegetable broth and add beans for protein.
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Protein-Packed: Add shredded chicken or ground beef for a heartier meal.
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Spicy Cabbage Soup: Add chili flakes or hot sauce for heat.
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Low-Carb Version: Skip potatoes and beans for a lighter option.
Storage
Store leftover cabbage soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months, making it perfect for meal prep.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cabbage soup is simple, nourishing, and incredibly versatile. It’s loaded with vegetables, easy to customize, and comforting without being heavy. Whether you’re cooking for health, convenience, or pure comfort, this soup is a reliable, delicious choice you’ll return to again and again.