Cabbage soup is one of the most comforting and nourishing meals you can make. Whether you’re looking for a cozy winter dish, a detox soup, or just a healthy and budget-friendly meal, this cabbage soup recipe is perfect. Packed with fresh vegetables, flavorful broth, and optional protein, this soup is versatile and can be customized to your taste.
Why You’ll Love This Cabbage Soup
- Healthy & Nutritious – Cabbage is low in calories but high in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
- Easy to Make – With just a few simple ingredients, this soup comes together quickly.
- Budget-Friendly – Cabbage and vegetables are inexpensive, making this a cost-effective meal.
- Customizable – Add protein, extra veggies, or spices to tailor it to your liking.
- Great for Weight Loss – Many people enjoy cabbage soup as part of a weight-loss plan due to its low-calorie content.
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make a classic cabbage soup:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 medium green cabbage, chopped
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Optional Additions:
- 1 pound ground beef, turkey, or sausage for added protein
- 1 cup cooked rice or quinoa for a heartier meal
- 1 can of beans (kidney, black, or white beans) for extra fiber
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for depth of flavor
- Fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
Chop the cabbage, onion, carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Mince the garlic and set everything aside. If you’re adding meat, cook it separately in a pan before adding it to the soup.
2. Sauté the Aromatics
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the Cabbage and Tomatoes
Add the chopped cabbage and canned diced tomatoes to the pot. Stir everything together to combine the flavors.
4. Pour in the Broth
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and stir well. Add the salt, black pepper, paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), oregano, basil, and bay leaves.
5. Simmer to Perfection
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. The cabbage should be tender, and the flavors should meld together beautifully.
6. Final Touches
Remove the bay leaves and stir in the lemon juice for a fresh, bright flavor. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If you’re adding cooked rice, beans, or additional protein, stir them in at this stage.
7. Serve & Enjoy!
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Health Benefits of Cabbage Soup
Cabbage soup isn’t just tasty; it’s packed with health benefits!
- Rich in Fiber – Helps with digestion and keeps you full longer.
- Low in Calories – A great meal for those watching their weight.
- High in Vitamins C & K – Supports immune health and bone strength.
- Detoxifying Properties – Aids in flushing out toxins from the body.
- Heart-Healthy – The combination of vegetables provides essential nutrients for cardiovascular health.
Variations to Try
Want to switch things up? Try these tasty variations:
1. Spicy Cabbage Soup 🔥
- Add extra red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño.
- Stir in a teaspoon of cayenne pepper for a kick.
2. Creamy Cabbage Soup 🥣
- Blend half of the soup for a thicker consistency.
- Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for a rich texture.
3. Meaty Cabbage Soup 🥩
- Brown ground beef, turkey, or sausage before adding to the soup.
- Use beef broth instead of vegetable broth for a richer flavor.
4. Vegetarian & Vegan Cabbage Soup 🌱
- Stick with vegetable broth and add extra beans for protein.
- Stir in nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy.
5. Asian-Inspired Cabbage Soup 🍜
- Add a splash of soy sauce and sesame oil.
- Stir in some shredded chicken or tofu for extra protein.
Pro Tips for the Best Cabbage Soup
- Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh cabbage and vegetables will enhance the flavor.
- Let It Rest – Cabbage soup tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded together.
- Make a Big Batch – This soup freezes well, so make extra and store it for quick meals.
- Experiment with Spices – Customize the seasoning to suit your taste.
- Balance the Acidity – The lemon juice or a splash of vinegar helps to balance the flavors.
Storage & Freezing
- Refrigeration – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
- Freezing – Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- Reheating – Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make cabbage soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Simply add all the ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
2. Is cabbage soup good for weight loss?
Yes! It’s low in calories and high in fiber, making it a filling and nutritious meal.
3. Can I use red cabbage instead of green?
Absolutely! Red cabbage will give the soup a slightly different flavor and a vibrant color.
4. What can I serve with cabbage soup?
Try crusty bread, a side salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich for a satisfying meal.
5. Can I add potatoes to the soup?
Yes! Adding diced potatoes will make it heartier.
Final Thoughts
Cabbage soup is a timeless dish that’s delicious, healthy, and incredibly easy to make. Whether you enjoy it as a light meal, a detox soup, or a comforting winter dish, this recipe is sure to satisfy. Give it a try, experiment with different variations, and enjoy the nourishing benefits of this amazing soup!
Let me know how your cabbage soup turns out and if you have any favorite variations!