Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this cabbage soup! It’s the kind of dish that just wraps you up in a warm hug on a chilly day. Seriously, there’s something magical about a steaming bowl of cabbage soup that fills the air with a cozy aroma and nourishes your soul. I first stumbled upon this recipe during a particularly cold winter, and I’ve been hooked ever since! Not only is it hearty and satisfying, but it’s also packed with nutrients. Cabbage is low in calories but high in fiber, making this soup a guilt-free delight. Plus, it’s easy to whip up with just a handful of fresh veggies and some pantry staples. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be coming back for seconds (and maybe even thirds) — it’s that good!

Ingredients for Cabbage Soup

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making this delicious cabbage soup! Here’s what you’ll need:

1 medium head of cabbage, chopped into bite-sized pieces
2 carrots, diced into small cubes
1 onion, chopped finely
2 cloves garlic, minced (the more garlic, the better, I say!)
4 cups vegetable broth (homemade or store-bought works great)
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
1 tablespoon olive oil, for sautéing
Salt and pepper to taste (don’t be shy with the seasoning!)
1 teaspoon dried thyme (or fresh if you have it on hand!)

These simple ingredients come together to create a soup that’s not only nourishing but also bursting with flavor. Feel free to get creative with the veggies! You can toss in some bell peppers or even a handful of spinach if you’re feeling adventurous. Enjoy the process!

How to Prepare Cabbage Soup

Now that you’ve got all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this scrumptious cabbage soup! Don’t worry, it’s super straightforward and fun. I promise you’ll be sipping on this delightful bowl of warmth in no time. Here’s how to do it:

Step-by-Step Instructions

First things first, grab a large pot and heat that tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. You want it nice and hot, but not smoking!
Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 2-3 minutes until they’re fragrant and the onion starts to turn translucent. Oh, the smell is heavenly!
Next, add those diced carrots and cook for another 5 minutes. Stir them around a bit to get them coated in all that garlicky goodness.
Now it’s time to add the star of the show: the cabbage! Stir it in and let it cook for about 5 minutes, just until it starts to wilt. Don’t rush this part; that wilting brings out the flavor!
Pour in the vegetable broth and the can of diced tomatoes (juice and all!). This is where the magic really happens. Add in your dried thyme, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together.
Bring the soup to a gentle boil—this shouldn’t take long. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This is when all those flavors meld together beautifully.
After 30 minutes, give it a little taste test. Adjust the seasoning if needed—maybe a pinch more salt or a dash of pepper. Then, it’s time to serve up this lovely soup hot and enjoy!

And there you have it! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a wholesome cabbage soup that’s perfect for any day. I can’t wait for you to try it! You’ll be amazed at how easy it is to create something so comforting.

Nutritional Information for Cabbage Soup

This cabbage soup is not only delicious but also a nutritious powerhouse! Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per serving (about 1 cup):

Calories: 150
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 7g
Sugar: 5g
Protein: 5g
Sodium: 400mg
Cholesterol: 0mg

These values can vary a bit depending on the specific ingredients you use, but overall, you’re looking at a hearty meal that’s low in calories and high in fiber. It’s a great way to fill up without feeling weighed down, making it perfect for any time of the year!

Why You’ll Love This Cabbage Soup Recipe

Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just about 50 minutes, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner when you’re short on time.
Hearty and Filling: With a generous helping of cabbage and veggies, this soup is satisfying enough to be a complete meal.
Nutritious: Packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, this soup is a healthy choice that won’t leave you feeling guilty.
Flavorful: The combination of garlic, thyme, and the sweetness of sautéed onions brings out a delicious depth of flavor that you’ll love.
Customizable: Feel free to add in your favorite veggies or even proteins like beans to tailor this soup to your tastes!
Vegan-Friendly: This cabbage soup is completely plant-based, making it a great option for anyone following a vegan diet.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week—just store it in the fridge, and you’ve got easy lunches or dinners ready to go!

Tips for Success with Cabbage Soup

Oh, I’ve got some great tips to ensure your cabbage soup turns out absolutely perfect! With just a few little tweaks, you can elevate your soup game to a whole new level. Trust me, these nuggets of wisdom will make a difference!

Don’t rush the sauté: Take your time when sautéing the onions and garlic. This step is crucial for developing that rich flavor base, so let them soften and caramelize a bit!
Adjust the broth: If you prefer a heartier flavor, feel free to use vegetable broth that’s low in sodium or even homemade broth if you have some on hand. It really elevates the taste!
Season as you go: Taste and adjust the seasoning at every step. This way, you’ll ensure that every spoonful is packed with flavor. A little sprinkle of salt or pepper can go a long way!
Let it simmer: Don’t skip the simmering time; it’s where all those wonderful flavors meld together. If you have the time, let it simmer a bit longer for an even deeper flavor.
Use fresh herbs: If you can, opt for fresh thyme instead of dried. It adds a vibrant flavor that makes the soup really shine!

Ingredient Notes/Substitutions

Let’s chat about some ingredients and possible swaps! If you’re looking to mix things up or use what you have at home, here are some ideas:

Cabbage: Green cabbage is my go-to, but you can also use Savoy or even Napa cabbage for a milder taste.
Carrots: Feel free to swap in other root veggies like parsnips or sweet potatoes for a different twist!
Broth: You can use chicken broth if you’re not keeping it vegan, or try a mushroom broth for an earthy flavor.
Tomatoes: If you don’t have canned diced tomatoes, fresh tomatoes or even tomato sauce will work in a pinch.
Herbs: Experiment with other herbs like oregano or basil if thyme isn’t your favorite. Just remember to adjust the quantities to taste!

These swaps and tips make this cabbage soup so versatile, so don’t hesitate to get creative and make it your own! I can’t wait for you to dive into this deliciousness!

Serving Suggestions for Cabbage Soup

Now that you’ve got your wonderful cabbage soup ready to go, let’s talk about what to serve alongside it for a complete meal experience! This soup is super versatile, and there are so many delicious options to complement its warm, hearty flavors.

Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread or a buttery baguette is perfect for dipping. The combination of the soup’s rich broth and the chewy bread is simply heavenly!
Grilled Cheese: You can’t go wrong with a classic grilled cheese sandwich. The gooey, melty cheese pairs beautifully with the soup, making for a comforting meal.
Salad: A light, refreshing salad with crisp greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette adds a lovely contrast to the warmth of the soup. It’s a great way to sneak in some extra veggies!
Quinoa or Rice: Serving the soup over a scoop of cooked quinoa or brown rice can add a nice texture and make it even more filling. Plus, it absorbs all those delicious flavors!
Pickled Vegetables: For a zesty kick, consider serving some pickled vegetables on the side. They add a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor that balances the soup’s warmth.

Feel free to mix and match these suggestions or even create your own! Whatever you choose, I promise it’ll elevate your cabbage soup experience to a whole new level. Enjoy every bite!

Storage & Reheating Instructions for Cabbage Soup

Now that you’ve made this scrumptious cabbage soup, you’ll want to know how to store those delicious leftovers, right? Don’t worry; it’s super simple! Just follow these easy steps:

Storing Leftovers: Allow the soup to cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps maintain the flavors and prevents condensation. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just make sure to label it with the date so you know when it was made!
Freezing: If you want to save some for a rainy day, this soup freezes beautifully! Pour the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.

When it’s time to reheat your cabbage soup, here’s what I do:

Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally and heat until it’s steaming hot, usually about 10 minutes. If it’s thickened up a bit too much in the fridge, you can always add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up!
Microwave: If you’re in a hurry, transfer a single serving to a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a microwave-safe lid or wrap. Heat it on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until it’s heated through. Just be cautious of hot splatters!

And there you have it! Your cabbage soup will be just as delicious the next time you enjoy it. I can’t wait for you to savor those warm flavors all over again!

Cabbage Soup: 7 Secrets to Soul-Warming Perfection

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegan

Print Recipe

Description

A hearty and nutritious cabbage soup that warms you up.

Ingredients

Scale

1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
2 carrots, diced
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
1 can diced tomatoes
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon dried thyme

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add onion and garlic, sauté until fragrant.
Add carrots and cook for 5 minutes.
Stir in cabbage and cook for another 5 minutes.
Pour in vegetable broth and diced tomatoes.
Add thyme, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
Serve hot.

Notes

Can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Add protein like beans for extra nutrition.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 150
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 400mg
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 4g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 25g
Fiber: 7g
Protein: 5g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: cabbage soup, healthy soup, vegetable soup

Spread the love