The Best Cabbage Soup Recipe
Description
Cabbage soup is a versatile and nourishing dish that has been a staple in kitchens around the world for centuries. It’s low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with vitamins and minerals. This soup is especially popular during the colder months, providing warmth and comfort with every spoonful. The recipe we’ll share is simple yet delicious, making it perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 3 stalks of celery, chopped
- 1 large onion, diced
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes, with juice
- 6 cups of vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a non-vegetarian version)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon of dried basil
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1-2 cups of chopped potatoes or beans for added heartiness
Method
Prepare the Vegetables: Start by chopping the cabbage, carrots, celery, and onion. Mince the garlic.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add Vegetables and Herbs: Stir in the chopped carrots, celery, and cabbage. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly. Add the thyme, basil, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
Incorporate the Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, followed by the vegetable broth. Stir to combine all ingredients. If you're adding potatoes or beans, include them at this stage.
Simmer the Soup: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Serve: Ladle the hot cabbage soup into bowls and enjoy with crusty bread or a light salad on the side.
Variations & Tips
Protein Boost: Add cooked chicken, turkey, or sausage for a more filling version. Alternatively, you can add beans or lentils for a vegetarian protein source.
Spicy Kick: If you enjoy spicy food, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when sautéing the onions.
Tomato Variation: If you prefer a more tomato-forward soup, use a can of crushed tomatoes instead of diced tomatoes. You can also add a tablespoon of tomato paste for a richer flavor.
Green Cabbage or Red Cabbage: While green cabbage is traditional, you can substitute red cabbage for a slightly different flavor and a vibrant color.
Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh thyme or basil on hand, use them instead of dried herbs. Simply double the amount of fresh herbs as they are less concentrated than dried.
Storage: Cabbage soup stores well and tastes even better the next day. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 5 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove.
Final Thoughts
Cabbage soup is more than just a healthy meal; it's a delicious and comforting dish that can be easily customized to suit your preferences. Whether you're following a specific diet or simply looking for a tasty way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals, this cabbage soup recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy it as is, or experiment with different variations to make it your own. No matter how you prepare it, cabbage soup is a hearty, nourishing, and flavorful option that you’ll want to make again and again.
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