If you are on the lookout for something comforting, nourishing, and downright delicious, this Cabbage Soup Recipe is about to become your new best friend in the kitchen. It’s a vibrant harmony of fresh vegetables simmered to perfection, delivering warmth and wholesomeness in every spoonful. Whether you’re craving a light meal, aiming to fill up on nutrients, or simply want a bowl that feels like a cozy hug, this cabbage soup has got it all. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a fantastic go-to for busy days or when you want to impress with minimal effort.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cabbage Soup Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role, whether adding depth, crunch, color, or a hint of zest that makes this soup truly sing. Having fresh and quality veggies really elevates the final result!
- Olive oil: The base for sautéing, it adds a subtle richness and helps soften the vegetables.
- Medium onion, chopped: Provides a sweet and savory foundation when cooked down.
- Garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the soup with aromatic warmth and an appetizing punch.
- Carrots, peeled and sliced: Adds natural sweetness and a lovely bright orange color.
- Celery stalks, sliced: Delivers crisp texture and a mild, refreshing earthiness.
- Green cabbage, chopped: The star ingredient, tender and slightly sweet once cooked.
- Zucchini, diced: Brings tenderness and gentle flavor without overpowering the soup.
- Diced tomatoes with juice (canned): Adds acidity and a burst of color that enlivens the entire dish.
- Low-sodium vegetable broth: Creates a flavorful and savory liquid base while keeping salt in check.
- Dried oregano: Contributes a fragrant, slightly peppery herbiness.
- Dried thyme: Infuses subtle earthiness that complements the vegetables beautifully.
- Smoked paprika: Offers a gentle smoky warmth that deepens the overall flavor.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all the natural flavors.
- Lemon juice: A bright splash at the end to balance and lift every bite.
- Optional fresh parsley: Ideal for garnish, adding freshness and a pop of green.
How to Make Cabbage Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin your journey to deliciousness by heating olive oil over medium heat in a large pot. Add the chopped onion and cook until it turns soft and translucent, about 3 to 4 minutes. This process unlocks the onion’s natural sweetness and sets a savory stage. Next, stir in the minced garlic along with the sliced carrots and celery, cooking them gently for another 5 minutes. This step melds the flavors together while slightly softening the veggies to develop that wonderful base for the soup.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables
Now it’s time for the star and friends to shine! Toss in the chopped cabbage and diced zucchini, letting them cook for 2 to 3 minutes just until they start to wilt. This moment allows the cabbage to keep a bit of texture while blending its mild flavor with the other ingredients, creating the soulful heart of the Cabbage Soup Recipe.
Step 3: Pour in Liquids and Seasonings
Carefully add the canned diced tomatoes with their juice along with the vegetable broth, then sprinkle in the dried oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. These seasonings bring complexity without overpowering the natural vegetable sweetness. Bring everything to a lively boil before reducing the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until all the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded into a mouthwatering harmony.
Step 4: Finish with a Bright Touch
Just before serving, stir in the tablespoon of lemon juice. This little added zing is like sunshine for your bowl, balancing the gentle sweetness with a fresh brightness that makes the soup truly irresistible. Give one last taste and adjust the seasoning as loved, then your Cabbage Soup Recipe is ready to delight.
How to Serve Cabbage Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley adds a delightful burst of color and a fresh herbal note that complements the smoky undertones of the soup. If you like a little extra texture, toasted pumpkin seeds or a dollop of creamy yogurt also work beautifully as garnishes.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or warm garlic naan for dipping and mopping up every last delicious drop. For a heartier meal, a side salad with crisp greens and a light vinaigrette creates a lovely balance, adding crunch alongside the silky soup.
Creative Ways to Present
For an eye-catching presentation, serve the soup in rustic bread bowls or colorful ceramic bowls that highlight its vibrant color. You can also ladle it over cooked grains like quinoa or brown rice in a shallow bowl, turning it into a filling main dish that feels both special and cozy.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Cabbage Soup Recipe actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen, making leftovers especially satisfying. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days to keep it fresh and flavorful.
Freezing
To enjoy this soup anytime, pour cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little room for expansion. It freezes well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture and taste.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You may want to add a splash of vegetable broth or water if it thickens too much. Microwaving works fine too, just stir at intervals for even heating.
FAQs
Can I add protein to the Cabbage Soup Recipe?
Absolutely! Adding cooked beans, lentils, or shredded chicken boosts the protein content without compromising flavor. Just stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking to warm through.
Is this soup suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, this cabbage soup is naturally vegan when made with vegetable broth and plant-based ingredients. It’s a perfect choice for anyone seeking a delicious vegan soup option.
How spicy is the soup?
This recipe is mild and comforting by default, but you can easily add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper during cooking if you enjoy a bit of heat.
What can I substitute for green cabbage?
If you can’t find green cabbage, savoy cabbage or napa cabbage are good alternatives. They have a slightly different texture but still deliver that lovely cabbage flavor the recipe depends on.
Can I prepare the soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Start by sautéing the aromatics as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours until vegetables are tender.
Final Thoughts
This Cabbage Soup Recipe is one of those comforting classics that feels like a warm hug on the chilliest days and a nourishing pick-me-up anytime. With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and room for personalization, it’s bound to become a staple in your meal rotation. So grab your pot and give it a try—you might just find your new favorite soup!
Print
Cabbage Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A hearty and healthy vegan cabbage soup loaded with fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, perfect for a light meal or detox. This comforting soup is easy to prepare on the stovetop and packed with nourishing ingredients that make it both delicious and satisfying.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 1/2 head green cabbage, chopped
- 1 zucchini, diced
Liquids
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with juice
- 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
Spices and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Optional Garnish
- Fresh parsley
Instructions
- Heat the oil and sauté aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic, carrots, and celery and cook for another 5 minutes to release their flavors.
- Add cabbage and zucchini: Stir in the chopped cabbage and diced zucchini, cooking for 2 to 3 minutes until the vegetables begin to wilt slightly, enhancing their texture and taste.
- Add liquids and seasonings: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and the vegetable broth. Season with dried oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to build a fragrant base.
- Simmer the soup: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 25 to 30 minutes, or until all vegetables are tender and flavors meld beautifully.
- Finish and serve: Stir in the lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- This soup is ideal for meal prep and often tastes better the next day as the flavors deepen.
- For added protein, consider incorporating beans or shredded chicken.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
