Easy and Healthy Cabbage Soup Recipe

Cabbage soup is a delightful dish that combines fresh vegetables and wholesome ingredients into a hearty meal. This recipe not only satisfies your hunger but also nourishes your body with essential nutrients. Ideal for lunch or dinner, cabbage soup is especially popular among those seeking a light yet filling option. With its vibrant flavors and comforting aroma, it’s no wonder that cabbage soup has become a staple in many kitchens. Whether you’re trying to eat healthier or simply want to enjoy a warm bowl of goodness, this recipe will become a favorite in your household. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make! In just under an hour, you can have a pot of delicious cabbage soup simmering on your stove. Let’s dive into why you’ll love this recipe!

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This cabbage soup
• Ingredients for cabbage soup
• How to Make cabbage soup
• Tips and Tricks
• How to Serve cabbage soup
• Make Ahead and Storage
• Suggestions for cabbage soup
• Avoid Overcooking the Cabbage
• Skipping the Sauté Step
• Not Balancing Flavors
• Neglecting Variations
• FAQs
• What are the health benefits of cabbage soup?
• Can I freeze leftover cabbage soup?
• How do I store cabbage soup properly?
• Can I modify this recipe for dietary restrictions?
• Conclusion for cabbage soup
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This cabbage soup

• Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
• Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners

Ingredients for cabbage soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Cabbage: Use fresh green or savoy cabbage for the best texture and flavor; aim for about half of a medium-sized head
• Carrots: Choose firm carrots; they add sweetness and color to the soup.
• Onion: A medium onion will enhance the flavor base; chop it finely for even cooking.
• Celery: Fresh celery adds crunch; use about two stalks diced into small pieces.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves bring aromatic depth; use three to four cloves minced.
• Vegetable Broth: Low-sodium vegetable broth works best so you can control the saltiness.
• Canned Tomatoes: Use one can of diced tomatoes for added richness.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaves are essential for flavor; adjust based on personal preference.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Looking for more recipe inspiration? Click here!

Refreshing Red Cabbage and Avocado Salad Recipe

How to Make cabbage soup

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Begin by washing all your vegetables thoroughly. Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Dice the carrots and celery into small chunks. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent (about five minutes). Then add minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about one minute).

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Stir in the diced carrots and celery into the pot. Cook these vegetables until they start to soften (about three to four minutes).

Step 4: Incorporate Cabbage

Add the chopped cabbage to the pot along with canned tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

Step 5: Season and Simmer

Season your mixture with salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat then reduce to a simmer. Cover and let it cook for about thirty minutes.

Step 6: Final Adjustments

Taste your cabbage soup before serving; adjust seasonings as necessary. Remove bay leaves before serving.

Transfer to bowls or plates for serving. Enjoy each bowl hot as it is perfect on its own or paired with crusty bread!

Tips and Tricks

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
• Add Protein: For extra heartiness, consider adding beans or cooked chicken to increase protein content
• Storage Friendly: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days

For more tasty options, look no further!

Cabbage and Cucumber Salad

How to Serve cabbage soup

This cabbage soup is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:

• Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
• Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
• Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.

Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!

Find your next favorite dish right here!

Asian Cabbage Stir Fry

Make Ahead and Storage

• Make Ahead: Prepare the cabbage soup components, such as chopping vegetables, a day in advance. Store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. This saves time when you are ready to cook.
• Storing: Allow leftover cabbage soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to five days or can be frozen for up to three months.
• Reheating: To reheat, warm the cabbage soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it reaches your desired temperature. If frozen, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Turn your meal into a feast with this recipe!

Creamy Chicken Soup with Pasta and Spinach Recipe

Suggestions for cabbage soup

Avoid Overcooking the Cabbage

Overcooking is a common mistake when making cabbage soup. Cooking cabbage too long can lead to a mushy texture and a loss of flavor. To achieve the perfect consistency, cook the cabbage just until it becomes tender but still retains some crunch. This usually takes about 5 to 10 minutes. If you prefer a firmer bite, consider adding cabbage later in the cooking process. Remember, the goal is to keep the vibrant color and nutritional benefits intact while enhancing the overall taste of your soup.

Skipping the Sauté Step

Many people skip sautéing their vegetables before adding them to the pot. This step enhances flavors significantly and makes a big difference in your cabbage soup. Take a few minutes to sauté onions, garlic, and any other aromatics in olive oil or butter before adding your broth and cabbage. This process caramelizes the sugars in these ingredients, creating a deeper flavor profile for your dish. A simple sauté can elevate your soup from basic to extraordinary.

Not Balancing Flavors

Failing to balance flavors can result in a bland or overly salty cabbage soup. Always taste your soup as it simmers and adjust seasoning as needed. Incorporate acidity, such as lemon juice or vinegar, to brighten up flavors. Additionally, consider adding herbs like thyme or bay leaves for depth. The right balance of sweetness from carrots and acidity from tomatoes can make all the difference in achieving a well-rounded flavor.

Neglecting Variations

Many cooks overlook the opportunity to customize their cabbage soup according to personal preferences or dietary needs. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different ingredients! For instance, adding beans or lentils can boost protein content, while spices like cumin or paprika can introduce warmth and complexity. You might also want to try varying the broth base – vegetable or chicken broth can change the soup’s character entirely. Keep an open mind; this flexibility allows you to create unique versions of cabbage soup that cater to your tastes.

FAQs

What are the health benefits of cabbage soup?

Cabbage soup offers numerous health benefits thanks to its nutrient-dense ingredients. Cabbage is low in calories but high in vitamins C and K, as well as fiber which aids digestion and promotes gut health. The inclusion of other vegetables adds additional nutrients, such as antioxidants from tomatoes and vitamins from carrots. This hearty dish can help support weight loss due to its low-calorie content while providing essential nutrients that contribute overall health.

Can I freeze leftover cabbage soup?

Yes, freezing leftover cabbage soup is an excellent way to preserve its freshness for later use! To do so effectively, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers or freezer bags. Remove excess air from bags before sealing them tightly. It’s best consumed within three months for optimal flavor and texture; however, it remains safe beyond that time frame if stored properly. When ready to enjoy again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove.

How do I store cabbage soup properly?

Proper storage is crucial for maintaining your cabbage soup’s freshness and flavor over time. Allow any leftover soup to cool down completely at room temperature before transferring it into airtight containers or glass jars with tight-fitting lids. Store it in the refrigerator for up to four days or freeze it for longer storage options (up to three months). Always reheat thoroughly before serving again; this ensures food safety while reviving delicious flavors.

Can I modify this recipe for dietary restrictions?

Absolutely! One of the great things about cabbage soup is its versatility; you can easily modify it based on dietary restrictions or preferences. For gluten-free diets, ensure that all broth used is certified gluten-free or make your own using whole ingredients without additives. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, opt for vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and include more plant-based proteins like beans or lentils for added nutrition.

Craving something different? Try this next!

Kale and Cabbage Salad Jars with Tahini Dressing

Conclusion for cabbage soup

In summary, making an exceptional cabbage soup involves avoiding common mistakes such as overcooking vegetables and neglecting flavor balance through proper seasoning techniques. Enhancing your dish by sautéing aromatics adds depth while allowing flexibility with ingredient variations enables customization based on personal preferences or dietary needs. Storing leftover soups correctly ensures you always have this nutritious meal at hand when cravings strike! Embrace these tips for delicious outcomes every time you prepare your comforting bowl of cabbage soup!