There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of Cabbage & White Bean Soup, don’t you think? This hearty soup is not just a delicious hug in a bowl; it’s packed with nutrition, too! Whenever I whip this up, I can’t help but feel a wave of warmth and healthiness washing over me. It’s so easy to make, and I love how versatile it is—perfect for those chilly nights or when I’m in need of something wholesome. Plus, I remember my grandma used to make a version of this soup, and it always brought the family together. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be hooked!

Ingredients for Cabbage & White Bean Soup

1 medium head of cabbage, chopped into bite-sized pieces
2 cans of white beans (like cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
1 onion, diced finely for sweetness
3 cloves of garlic, minced to bring out that lovely flavor
4 cups vegetable broth, or more if you like it soupier
2 carrots, sliced thinly for a touch of sweetness and color
1 teaspoon dried thyme, adding that earthy aroma
Salt to taste, don’t be shy!
Pepper to taste, for that perfect kick

How to Prepare Cabbage & White Bean Soup

Step-by-Step Instructions

Alright, let’s dive into the magic of making this Cabbage & White Bean Soup! I promise it’s simple and satisfying—just follow along!

First, grab a large pot and heat it over medium heat. You want it nice and warm to start sautéing those aromatics.
Once the pot is hot, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3–4 minutes until they’re all soft and fragrant. Oh, that smell is heavenly!
Next, add in the sliced carrots and chopped cabbage. Stir everything together and let them cook for about 5 minutes. You want the cabbage to start wilting down a bit.
Now, it’s time to bring in the stars of the show! Add the drained white beans, vegetable broth, dried thyme, and a good sprinkle of salt and pepper. Stir it all up so everything is well combined.
Bring the mixture to a boil—this is where the magic starts! Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.
After 30 minutes, give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve it hot, and enjoy the warmth and nourishment in every spoonful!

And just like that, you’ve got a comforting bowl of Cabbage & White Bean Soup ready to warm your soul! It’s perfect for leftovers too—if there are any!

Nutritional Information for Cabbage & White Bean Soup

Now, let’s talk about the goodness packed in each bowl of this Cabbage & White Bean Soup! It’s not only delicious but also super nutritious. Here’s a breakdown of the estimated nutritional values per serving (about 1 cup):

Calories: 200
Fat: 1g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 1g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Sugar: 2g
Fiber: 10g
Protein: 10g
Sodium: 400mg
Cholesterol: 0mg

This soup is a fantastic source of fiber, thanks to the cabbage and white beans, which helps keep you full and satisfied. Plus, it’s low in fat and completely cholesterol-free, making it a heart-healthy choice. Just remember, these values are estimates and can vary based on the specific ingredients you use. Enjoy this nourishing bowl guilt-free!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just 15 minutes of prep time, you can whip up this delicious soup in no time!
Hearty Flavor: The combination of cabbage, white beans, and aromatic spices creates a rich, comforting taste that warms you from the inside out.
Nutritional Value: Packed with fiber and protein, this soup not only fills you up but also nourishes your body.
Vegan-Friendly: It’s completely plant-based, making it perfect for anyone following a vegan diet or simply looking to eat healthier.
Versatility: Feel free to throw in any extra veggies you have on hand, making it a customizable meal that suits your taste!
Leftover Heaven: This soup stores beautifully, so you can enjoy it for days—if it lasts that long!

Tips for Success with Cabbage & White Bean Soup

Alright, let’s make this Cabbage & White Bean Soup absolutely perfect! I’ve learned a few tricks along the way that I’m excited to share with you. Trust me, these tips will elevate your soup game!

Don’t Rush the Sauté: When you sauté the onion and garlic, take your time! It’s key to developing that deep, rich flavor. I usually let them go until they’re golden and fragrant—around 3–4 minutes is ideal.
Adjust the Veggies: Feel free to mix in any vegetables you have lying around! Spinach, kale, or even zucchini can be fantastic additions. Just remember, if you’re adding sturdier vegetables like potatoes, give them a head start by cooking them a few minutes longer before adding the cabbage.
Season to Taste: This soup is a blank canvas for flavors! Don’t hesitate to adjust the salt and pepper as it simmers. I often sneak in a sprinkle of smoked paprika or red pepper flakes for a little kick—yum!
Let It Rest: If you can, let the soup sit for a bit after cooking. The flavors deepen and meld together beautifully. It’s even better the next day—it’s like the soup has had a chance to make friends!
Watch Your Cooking Time: Keep an eye on the simmering time. If you overcook it, the cabbage might get too soft and lose its delightful crunch. A gentle simmer for about 30 minutes is just right for a tender yet vibrant soup!
Store Wisely: If you have leftovers, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to a week—just give it a stir and maybe a splash more broth when you reheat it!

By keeping these tips in mind, you’re well on your way to a delicious and satisfying Cabbage & White Bean Soup that’ll keep you coming back for more. Happy cooking!

Variations of Cabbage & White Bean Soup

Now, let’s have some fun with variations of this Cabbage & White Bean Soup! I love how adaptable this recipe is, and it’s a great way to use up whatever veggies you have on hand or to shake things up a bit. Here are some of my favorite twists:

Spicy Kick: If you like a little heat, toss in some diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes while sautéing the onions and garlic. It’ll give your soup a delightful warmth!
Herb Infusion: Try adding fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or basil towards the end of cooking for a burst of freshness. I especially love a handful of chopped parsley stirred in just before serving!
Root Veggie Medley: Swap in or add root vegetables like potatoes, sweet potatoes, or parsnips. Just chop them small and add them to the pot before the cabbage to give them a little extra cooking time.
Greens Galore: Throw in a handful of spinach, kale, or Swiss chard in the last few minutes of cooking. They’ll wilt beautifully and add a pop of color and nutrition!
Smoky Flavor: For a deeper flavor profile, add a bit of smoked paprika or even a splash of liquid smoke to the broth. It gives the soup an incredible depth that I can’t get enough of!
Beans of Choice: While white beans are fantastic, don’t hesitate to switch it up with other beans like chickpeas or lentils for a different texture and flavor. Just make sure they’re cooked or canned for quick preparation!
Creamy Variation: If you’re in the mood for something creamier, blend a portion of the soup once it’s cooked. It’ll give you a smooth, velvety texture while still keeping some chunky bits for that hearty feel!

These variations are just the tip of the iceberg! Feel free to get creative and make this soup your own. The possibilities are endless, and each twist can lead to a delightful new experience. Happy experimenting!

Storage & Reheating Instructions for Cabbage & White Bean Soup

Now that you’ve made this delicious Cabbage & White Bean Soup, you’ll probably want to enjoy it more than once! Storing and reheating is super simple, and I’m here to guide you through it.

First off, if you have any leftovers (which I hope you do because it’s that good!), let the soup cool completely before putting it away. You don’t want to trap steam and make it soggy, right? Once it’s cooled, transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll keep nicely in the fridge for up to a week. Just make sure to label it if you’re like me and often forget what’s lurking in there!

If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the soup! Just pour it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion. I like to portion it out into single servings; that way, I can just grab what I need. It’ll stay fresh in the freezer for about 2–3 months.

When it’s time to enjoy your soup again, simply reheat it on the stove over medium heat until it’s steaming hot. You might want to add a splash of broth or water if it’s thickened up a bit in the fridge or freezer. Stir it occasionally, and enjoy the aromas wafting through your kitchen again!

If you’re in a hurry, you can also microwave it. Just transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely (to avoid splatters!), and heat for about 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through. It’s quick and easy, just like this soup!

So there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor your Cabbage & White Bean Soup again and again. Enjoy every last spoonful!

FAQ Section

Can I make this Cabbage & White Bean Soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to mingle. You can prepare it a day or two ahead of time and simply reheat when you’re ready to serve.

Can I use a different type of bean?
Of course! While I love white beans for their creaminess, you can easily swap them out for chickpeas, kidney beans, or even lentils. Just make sure they’re cooked or canned for a quick meal!

Is Cabbage & White Bean Soup gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just be sure to check your vegetable broth label to ensure it’s gluten-free as well, especially if you’re using store-bought varieties.

How do I store leftovers?
Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to a week, or you can freeze it for 2–3 months. Just remember to portion it out for easy reheating!

Can I add meat to this soup?
Definitely! If you want to add some protein, diced chicken or sausage would work nicely. Just sauté it along with the onions and garlic at the beginning for the best flavor!

Cabbage & White Bean Soup: 5 Steps to Comforting Bliss

Author: Lisa
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Soup
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American
Diet: Vegan

Print Recipe

Description

A hearty and nutritious soup made with cabbage and white beans.

Ingredients

Scale

1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
2 cans of white beans, drained and rinsed
1 onion, diced
3 cloves of garlic, minced
4 cups vegetable broth
2 carrots, sliced
1 teaspoon thyme
Salt to taste
Pepper to taste

Instructions

Heat a large pot over medium heat.
Add the diced onion and garlic, sauté until soft.
Add the sliced carrots and chopped cabbage, cook for a few minutes.
Add the white beans, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
Serve hot.

Notes

Feel free to add other vegetables.
This soup stores well in the refrigerator.
Can be frozen for later use.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 200
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 400mg
Fat: 1g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 1g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 10g
Protein: 10g
Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: Cabbage & White Bean Soup

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