If you’re craving a wholesome and comforting bowl that warms you from the inside out, this Cabbage Soup Recipe is just the ticket. Bursting with fresh, vibrant vegetables and gentle herbs, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a low-calorie, nutrient-packed meal. Whether you’re new to cabbage or already a fan, this soup balances mild sweetness, satisfying textures, and a subtle zing of lemon juice that really lifts the flavors. It feels like a big, cozy hug in a bowl and is perfect for any season when you want something both light and nourishing.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Nothing complicated here—just simple, fresh ingredients that bring harmony to this delicious soup. Each one plays a critical role, from building depth in the broth to adding colorful textures that make every spoonful a delight.
- Olive oil: A tablespoon to gently sauté the vegetables and add smooth richness.
- Onion (1 medium, chopped): Adds a sweet and savory foundation.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brings aromatic warmth and flavor depth.
- Carrots (3, peeled and sliced): Offer a natural sweetness and inviting color.
- Celery (2 stalks, sliced): Adds a subtle earthy crunch.
- Green cabbage (1/2 head, chopped): The star ingredient, tender yet slightly crisp.
- Zucchini (1, chopped): A mild, moist touch to balance the mix.
- Diced tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 ounces): Provide a bright, juicy tang with every bite.
- Vegetable or chicken broth (6 cups): The flavorful liquid base that ties everything together.
- Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): Adds gentle herbaceous notes.
- Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Delivers subtle warmth and color.
- Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon): For a hint of spice.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon, or to taste): Essential to bring out all flavors.
- Lemon juice (1 tablespoon, optional): Gives a refreshing brightness at the end.
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): A fragrant, colorful finish that adds freshness.
How to Make Cabbage Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Your Base Vegetables
Start by warming the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté these together for about 5 to 7 minutes until they start to soften and their natural sweetness begins to emerge. Then add the minced garlic and cook it for just one more minute so it releases that incredible aroma without burning.
Step 2: Add the Hearty Vegetables and Broth
Next, stir in the chopped cabbage and zucchini along with the canned diced tomatoes, including their juice. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, which will form the comforting base of the soup. Sprinkle in the dried thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. These seasonings gently build layers of flavor without overpowering the fresh veggies.
Step 3: Simmer to Perfection
Bring everything to a boil, then lower the heat to keep it at a gentle simmer. Cook uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender yet still retain a bit of bite. This simmering melds every ingredient beautifully, creating a rich and flavorful soup that feels both light and satisfying.
Step 4: Final Touches and Seasoning
If you love a bit of brightness, stir in a tablespoon of lemon juice just before serving—it really lifts the flavors and adds a lovely freshness. Taste your soup and adjust the salt or pepper as needed to make it just right for your palate.
How to Serve Cabbage Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley on top adds a wonderful pop of green and a fresh herbal note that cuts through the richness of the broth. You can also add a drizzle of good olive oil or a few red pepper flakes if you enjoy a bit of heat.
Side Dishes
This soup shines as a light meal on its own but pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a simple green salad, or even a scoop of cooked rice or beans for a heartier experience. The mild flavors allow many sides to complement it beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in colorful bowls to highlight its vibrant orange and green hues. For a fun twist, ladle it into hollowed-out bread bowls. You can also top it with crispy croutons or roasted chickpeas to add texture and interest.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This cabbage soup keeps exceptionally well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors develop further, making leftovers even tastier. Store it in an airtight container to preserve freshness.
Freezing
If you want to keep the soup longer, it freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, transfer to freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Just thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Warm the soup gently over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. You can add a splash of broth or water if it becomes too thick. Reheat until steaming hot and enjoy as if it’s freshly made.
FAQs
Can I use red cabbage instead of green cabbage?
Yes, red cabbage can be used in this recipe. It will add a slightly different color and a mildly earthier flavor, but the soup will still be delicious and colorful.
Is this Cabbage Soup Recipe suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! If you use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, this soup is completely vegan and packed with plant-based goodness.
Can I add protein to make it more filling?
Definitely. Adding cooked white beans, ground turkey, or even some cooked rice can turn this light soup into a more substantial meal without losing its comforting vibe.
What if I prefer a spicy soup?
Feel free to add red pepper flakes, cayenne, or a dash of your favorite hot sauce to give the soup an extra kick that will wake up your taste buds.
How can I make this soup thicker?
To thicken your cabbage soup, try simmering it longer to reduce some of the broth or blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in for a creamier texture.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Cabbage Soup Recipe a try soon. It’s simple, wholesome, and filled with vibrant flavors that make it a joy to prepare and eat. Once you experience how soothing and satisfying a humble bowl of cabbage soup can be, I’m sure it will become a beloved staple in your kitchen, just like it is in mine!
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Cabbage Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan, Gluten Free
Description
A hearty and healthy vegan cabbage soup made with fresh vegetables simmered in a flavorful broth. This easy-to-make, low-calorie soup is perfect for detox, weight loss, or a light comforting meal, featuring vibrant cabbage, carrots, zucchini, and a touch of lemon juice for brightness.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 1/2 head green cabbage, chopped
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids & Canned Goods
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, with juice
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
Seasonings & Others
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil and sauté aromatics: In a large pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and release their flavors.
- Add garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring frequently to prevent burning and to meld the flavors.
- Add remaining vegetables and liquids: Stir in the chopped cabbage, chopped zucchini, and the can of diced tomatoes including the juice. Pour in 6 cups of vegetable or chicken broth, then add dried thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Simmer the soup: Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. This allows the vegetables to become tender and the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Finish and season to taste: Stir in the optional lemon juice for a bright, fresh note. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt or pepper if needed.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy your nutritious, comforting cabbage soup.
Notes
- This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to deepen.
- For a heartier meal, consider adding white beans, ground turkey, or cooked rice to the soup.
- If you’d like a spicier flavor, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during cooking or at serving.
