If you’re looking for a wholesome, comforting bowl of warmth that’s light yet packed full of flavor, you’ve just found it with the Best Cabbage Soup Recipe. This vibrant soup brings together fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs in a way that’s nourishing and incredibly satisfying. Whether you want a cozy meal to unwind after a busy day or a healthy addition to your weekly menu, this soup strikes the perfect balance of hearty textures and bright, savory notes. The tender cabbage melds beautifully with the medley of veggies, creating a dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple but essential ingredients is all it takes to create a dazzling flavor profile and delightful texture in your soup. Each vegetable adds freshness and color, the herbs infuse it with savory depth, and the broth brings everything together in perfect harmony.
- Olive oil: A tablespoon to gently sauté the veggies, giving them a soft, flavorful start.
- Onion, diced: Adds a subtle sweetness and foundational aroma to the soup.
- Garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant punch that enhances every bite.
- Carrots, peeled and diced: Offer a natural sweetness and lovely bright color.
- Celery stalks, diced: Provide a pleasant crispness and mild earthiness.
- Green bell pepper, diced: Adds a fresh, slightly tangy bite that livens up the flavor.
- Zucchini, diced: Contributes a tender texture with a gentle sweetness.
- Small head of cabbage, shredded: The star of the show, giving bulk and an irresistible mild crunch.
- Can of diced tomatoes with juices: Adds bright acidity and rich body to the broth.
- Vegetable broth (or chicken broth): The flavorful base that brings all the ingredients together.
- Bay leaf: Infuses subtle herbal notes during simmering.
- Dried thyme: For a gentle, earthy undertone.
- Dried oregano: Adds a touch of warmth and Mediterranean flair.
- Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a slight kick, just enough to awaken your palate.
- Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to bring balance and highlight the natural flavors.
- Fresh parsley (optional): A bright, fresh garnish that lifts the final presentation.
How to Make Best Cabbage Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onions and cook them until they become translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Then add the minced garlic, stirring for another minute. This initial step lays the flavor foundation, releasing the enticing aromas that make this soup so inviting.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables
Next, introduce the diced carrots, celery, green bell pepper, and zucchini. Stir them into the pot and sauté for about 5 minutes until they soften slightly. This layering of textures ensures every spoonful has a satisfying bite, while the mix of colors brightens the soup’s visual appeal.
Step 3: Incorporate Cabbage and Tomatoes
Now it’s time for the shredded cabbage and canned diced tomatoes with their juices to join the party. The cabbage begins to wilt down and absorb the savory broth, while the tomatoes add a tangy, juicy component that elevates the depth of flavor.
Step 4: Pour in Broth and Spices
Pour 6 cups of vegetable or chicken broth into the pot along with the bay leaf, dried thyme, oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. This slow cooking allows the herbs and spices to infuse their essence throughout the soup.
Step 5: Simmer Until Tender
Let the soup simmer gently for about 40 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow melding of flavors tenderizes the vegetables perfectly, creating a rich and comforting texture while ensuring the soup does not become mushy. Once done, discard the bay leaf, and your soup base is ready to serve.
How to Serve Best Cabbage Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Adding fresh parsley right before serving introduces a pop of green freshness and a subtle herbal brightness that complements the earthy soup beautifully. You can also sprinkle a bit of cracked black pepper or a drizzle of good olive oil for extra richness.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or warm garlic rolls to soak up every last flavorful drop. A side salad with a light vinaigrette offers a crisp contrast, making for a well-rounded meal that keeps you feeling satisfied without heaviness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Best Cabbage Soup Recipe in rustic bread bowls or colorful ceramic mugs. You could also sprinkle toasted pumpkin seeds or grated Parmesan on top for an unexpected textural contrast that adds a deliciously nutty or savory note.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover cabbage soup keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to deepen overnight, making your next meal even tastier and easier to enjoy.
Freezing
This soup freezes exceptionally well. Let it cool completely, transfer to freezer-safe containers, and store for up to 3 months. When you need a quick, nutritious meal, just thaw and reheat—it’s a perfect pantry staple for busy days.
Reheating
Reheat on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You might want to add a splash of broth or water if it has thickened during storage. Microwave reheating works fine too; just cover and heat in short bursts, stirring in between.
FAQs
Can I use different types of cabbage for this soup?
Absolutely! While green cabbage is classic and gives a mild flavor, you can experiment with savoy or red cabbage for a slight variation in texture and a pop of color.
Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
Yes! Just make sure to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and you’ll have a hearty vegan-friendly meal full of wholesome goodness.
Can I add protein to the Best Cabbage Soup Recipe?
Definitely. Feel free to stir in cooked beans, lentils, or even shredded chicken to boost the protein and make it more filling without losing its comforting character.
How spicy is this soup with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth rather than intense heat. You can always adjust the amount or omit them entirely based on your spice preference.
What’s the best way to shred cabbage quickly?
Using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer helps you shred cabbage uniformly and quickly, ensuring even cooking and a nice mouthfeel throughout the soup.
Final Thoughts
There’s something wonderfully satisfying about a homemade soup that’s as vibrant and comforting as the Best Cabbage Soup Recipe. It’s easy to make, easy to love, and holds a special place in the kitchen for anyone who cherishes simple, nourishing meals. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it your own go-to soup for cozy days or anytime you crave something that hugs your soul with every spoonful.
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Best Cabbage Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Best Cabbage Soup recipe is a hearty, healthy, and flavorful vegetable soup that combines crisp cabbage, vibrant veggies, and aromatic herbs in a comforting broth. Perfect for a nutritious meal any day of the week, this soup is easy to prepare and packed with wholesome ingredients that satisfy without being heavy.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 medium green bell pepper, diced
- 1 medium zucchini, diced
- 1 small head of cabbage, shredded (about 6 cups)
Liquids & Canned Goods
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for more flavor)
Oils & Seasonings
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil. In a large pot over medium heat, warm 1 tablespoon of olive oil until shimmering, setting the base for sautéing your vegetables.
- Sauté aromatics and vegetables. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.
- Add carrots, celery, bell pepper, and zucchini. Stir in the diced carrots, celery stalks, green bell pepper, and zucchini pieces. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring often, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly and meld flavors.
- Add shredded cabbage. Incorporate the shredded cabbage into the pot, stirring well to combine with the sautéed vegetables.
- Pour in liquids and seasonings. Add the can of diced tomatoes with juices and 6 cups of vegetable or chicken broth. Toss in the bay leaf, dried thyme, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Simmer the soup. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until all vegetables are tender and flavors are well developed.
- Adjust seasoning and serve. Remove the bay leaf, taste the soup, and adjust salt, pepper, or spice levels if needed. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!
Notes
- You can substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth if you prefer a richer flavor.
- To make this soup spicier, increase the amount of red pepper flakes.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and freeze beautifully for up to 3 months.
- For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked beans or shredded chicken.
- Adjust salt and seasoning at the end to suit your taste preferences.
