If you are looking for a comforting yet vibrant dish to warm your soul, this Cabbage Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. It combines fresh vegetables, fragrant herbs, and subtle spices into a deliciously healthy soup that feels like a hug in a bowl. Whether you want a light lunch or a cozy dinner, this recipe is easy to prepare and packed with nourishing flavors that stay with you. Plus, it’s wonderful for cleansing your palate without skimping on taste.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity; each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating a balanced bowl full of texture, color, and depth. From the sweet crunch of carrots to the gentle earthiness of cabbage, these ingredients blend to make every spoonful delightful.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds richness and helps soften the vegetables to enhance their flavors.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Offers a subtle sweetness when sautéed and forms the soup’s aromatic base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings warmth and complexity to the broth.
- 3 carrots, sliced: Contribute a natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- 3 celery stalks, sliced: Provide a mild, refreshing crunch and depth.
- 1/2 head of green cabbage, chopped: The star ingredient that gives the soup body and a pleasant texture.
- 1 zucchini, chopped: Adds moisture and tender bite without overpowering the other flavors.
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with juice: Introduces brightness and a slight tang to balance the vegetables.
- 6 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth: The flavorful liquid that brings everything together.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the natural flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Provides a gentle kick and aromatic spice.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme: Adds an earthy herbal note that complements the soup well.
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika: Gives a subtle smoky undertone and lovely color.
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a touch of heat to brighten the soup.
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley: Stirred in at the end for freshness and a pop of green.
How to Make Cabbage Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking them gently for 2 to 3 minutes until they soften and release their inviting aroma. This step builds the flavorful foundation for your Cabbage Soup Recipe, so take your time to let the flavors develop.
Step 2: Cook the Root Vegetables
Next, toss in the sliced carrots and celery. Let them cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows these vegetables to start softening while adding natural sweetness and crunch to your soup, creating layers of texture that will linger delightfully on your palate.
Step 3: Add the Cabbage and Zucchini
Stir in the chopped cabbage and zucchini, cooking everything together for 2 more minutes. The cabbage starts to soften and release its mild, slightly peppery flavor, while zucchini adds moisture and tenderness, balancing the soup beautifully.
Step 4: Pour in Tomatoes and Broth
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and the broth of your choice, whether vegetable or chicken. This liquid base will marry all the vegetable flavors and carry the seasonings through every spoonful of your Cabbage Soup Recipe.
Step 5: Season and Simmer
Season your soup with salt, black pepper, thyme, paprika, and if you like a bit of heat, the crushed red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. This slow simmer tenderizes the vegetables perfectly and infuses the broth with aromatic goodness. Before serving, taste to adjust the seasoning.
Step 6: Finish with Fresh Parsley
Once the soup has simmered and the vegetables are tender, stir in the fresh chopped parsley. This final touch lends a bright, herbaceous note that lifts the entire dish and adds a splash of color that makes the soup feel lively and fresh.
How to Serve Cabbage Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A bowl of this soup deserves a few thoughtful garnishes. Sprinkle freshly ground black pepper, a drizzle of good-quality olive oil, or even a spoonful of tangy Greek yogurt or sour cream to add creaminess. For a pop of texture, toasted seeds or chopped scallions work wonderfully.
Side Dishes
Cabbage Soup Recipe is quite versatile and pairs well with crusty bread to soak up every last drop, or a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette. If you want something heartier, garlic bread or a grilled cheese sandwich are classic companions that turn this healthy soup into a full meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. You can also add a handful of cooked beans or shredded cooked chicken to the soup to give it an extra protein boost. If you want to impress guests, top each bowl with a sprinkle of crispy fried onions or fresh microgreens for a restaurant-worthy finish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Cabbage Soup Recipe keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness and let the flavors mellow and deepen overnight, often tasting even better the next day.
Freezing
To freeze, cool the soup completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. It will keep well for 2 to 3 months. Frozen cabbage soup is fantastic for busy days when you want a quick, nutritious meal waiting in your freezer.
Reheating
Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Adding a splash of broth or water can help loosen the consistency if it thickened during storage. Microwave reheating is also fine; just heat in short intervals and stir in between.
FAQs
Can I use other types of cabbage for this recipe?
Absolutely! While green cabbage is traditional and mild, savoy or napa cabbage can bring a different texture and flavor. Keep in mind their cooking times may vary slightly.
Is this soup suitable for a vegan diet?
Yes, this Cabbage Soup Recipe is naturally vegan when you use vegetable broth—and it’s packed with plant-based goodness.
How spicy is the soup with the red pepper flakes?
The crushed red pepper adds a gentle warmth without overwhelming the other flavors. You can easily skip it if you prefer a milder taste.
Can I add protein to make this soup more filling?
Definitely! Adding cooked beans, lentils, or shredded chicken boosts protein content and makes the soup even heartier while maintaining its comforting character.
What is the best way to chop the vegetables for this soup?
Try to chop everything into uniform bite-sized pieces so they cook evenly and make every spoonful balanced. For cabbage, a coarse chop works well for texture.
Final Thoughts
This Cabbage Soup Recipe is a true kitchen hero—simple enough for busy weeknights yet satisfying enough to become a family favorite. Each spoonful feels wholesome, vibrant, and nurturing. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give it a try; your taste buds and your body will thank you for it!
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 cabbage soup featuring a medley of fresh vegetables simmered in a flavorful broth, perfect for a comforting vegan and gluten-free meal.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, sliced
- 1/2 head green cabbage, chopped
- 1 zucchini, chopped
Liquids & Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes with juice
- 6 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 2 to 3 minutes until they become soft and fragrant.
- Cook Carrots and Celery: Add the sliced carrots and celery to the pot, cooking for another 5 minutes to slightly soften these vegetables while building flavor.
- Add Cabbage and Zucchini: Stir in the chopped cabbage and zucchini, cooking for an additional 2 minutes to start softening the greens.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice along with the low-sodium broth. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Season and Simmer: Season the soup with salt, black pepper, dried thyme, paprika, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until all the vegetables are tender.
- Adjust and Finish: Taste the soup and adjust seasonings as needed. Just before serving, stir in the freshly chopped parsley to add brightness and freshness to the dish.
Notes
- This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
- For additional protein, consider adding cooked beans or shredded chicken.
