Best Cabbage Soup Recipe

Growing up, my mom would make cabbage soup often. It was her go-to recipe for using up leftover vegetables and it quickly became one of our family favorites. The beauty of cabbage soup is that it’s not only easy to make but also very satisfying. It’s one of those simple dishes that fills you up without weighing you down. Over the years, I’ve made my own adjustments to the recipe, adding in a few extra vegetables and seasonings to make it just the way I like it.

The best part about cabbage soup is how flexible it is. You can add just about any vegetable to it, and it always tastes amazing. Whether you’re looking for a light, healthy meal or need something quick for dinner, this cabbage soup is perfect for any occasion. Plus, it’s a great way to get more vegetables into your diet.

Servings	Total
6	1hr

Where Did You Learn This Recipe?

I learned this recipe from my mother, who had been making cabbage soup for years. She always made it on cold evenings, and we would sit around the table with big bowls of it, enjoying the simple flavors and the company. When I moved out on my own, I realized how much I missed this comforting soup, so I started making it myself. I’ve tweaked it over time to make it my own, but it still reminds me of home every time I cook it.

Why Cabbage Soup

Cabbage soup is one of those dishes that’s perfect for almost any occasion. It’s light yet filling, making it great for a healthy lunch or a low-calorie dinner option. The cabbage adds a natural sweetness to the soup, while the other vegetables and seasonings create a savory depth of flavor. It’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and it’s something I can rely on when I need to make a quick meal that’s both comforting and healthy. Plus, it’s a great way to use up vegetables in the fridge, and it gets better the longer it sits, so it’s perfect for meal prep.

What is Cabbage Soup Made of?

Cabbage soup is made with simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a flavorful dish:

• Cabbage – The main ingredient, which provides a mild, sweet flavor and lots of fiber.
• Vegetables – Common additions include carrots, celery, onions, and tomatoes, which add color and depth.
• Broth – Either vegetable or chicken broth is used as the base for the soup, giving it a rich and savory flavor.
• Seasonings – Salt, pepper, garlic, and herbs like thyme or bay leaves are used to enhance the taste.
• Optional additions – Sometimes, I add a little bit of ground turkey or lean beef for extra protein, but it’s just as tasty without meat.

What to Have with Cabbage Soup

Cabbage soup is hearty enough on its own, but it pairs nicely with:

• Crusty bread – A warm, crusty loaf is perfect for dipping into the soup.
• Grilled cheese sandwich – A classic pairing that’s perfect for dunking into the soup.
• Side salad – A fresh side salad with a light vinaigrette helps balance out the richness of the soup.
• Cheese – Shredded cheese on top of the soup adds a creamy texture and extra flavor.

Is Cabbage Soup Healthy?

Yes, cabbage soup is a very healthy dish. Cabbage is low in calories and high in fiber, which makes the soup filling without being too heavy. The broth and vegetables provide a variety of vitamins and minerals, and it’s low in fat. If you want to make it even healthier, you can use low-sodium broth and skip the meat. It’s naturally gluten-free, and you can add extra veggies like spinach or zucchini to increase the nutrient content. It’s a great choice for anyone looking to eat more vegetables or watching their calorie intake.

Kitchen Equipment

You’ll need:

• Large pot for cooking the soup
• Knife and cutting board for chopping vegetables
• Wooden spoon for stirring
• Measuring spoons for spices

Ingredients:

• 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1/2 lb ground turkey or lean beef (for added protein)

How To Make Cabbage Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil (or a small amount of butter, if preferred). Once hot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Stir well and cook for 5 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften.

Next, add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, stirring constantly to release its aroma.

Step 2: Add the Cabbage and Broth

Stir in the chopped cabbage and mix well with the sautéed vegetables. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the cabbage to soften slightly.

Pour in the 4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth, followed by the can of diced tomatoes (with juices). Add 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 bay leaf, and salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together to combine the flavors.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the cabbage to become tender and the flavors to develop beautifully.

Step 4: Add Protein (Optional)

If you’d like to add protein, cook 1/2 lb of ground turkey or lean beef in a separate skillet over medium heat until browned. Drain any excess fat, then stir the cooked meat into the soup during the last 10 minutes of cooking.

Step 5: Taste and Adjust

Remove the bay leaf and taste the soup. Adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or an extra pinch of thyme if needed.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the hot cabbage soup into bowls and serve it with crusty bread, crackers, or a side salad for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness.

Tips

• Make it spicy – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño for some extra heat.
• Add more veggies – You can add extra vegetables like zucchini, potatoes, or green beans to make the soup even heartier.
• Make it ahead – Cabbage soup tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld together.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen cabbage?
Yes, you can use frozen cabbage, but fresh cabbage will give the soup a better texture.

2. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make cabbage soup in a slow cooker. Just add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

3. Can I freeze cabbage soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

Cabbage soup is a comforting and healthy meal that’s easy to make and full of flavor. It’s a great way to get in your vegetables and make something nutritious for your family. Whether you’re cooking it on a cold day or just looking for a quick and simple meal, this soup is sure to satisfy. It’s versatile, customizable, and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy!

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