It’s a chilly evening, and you can almost hear your taste buds whispering sweet nothings about a warm bowl of cabbage soup. Imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen as the tender cabbage mingles with spices and simmering broth—it’s practically a hug in a bowl! Now picture this cozy evening filled with laughter while you gather around the table to enjoy it.
Jump to:
- <strong>Essential Ingredients</strong>
- <strong>Let’s Make it Together</strong>
- <strong>Perfecting the Cooking Process</strong>
- <strong>Add Your Touch</strong>
- <strong>Storing & Reheating</strong>
- <strong>FAQ</strong>
- What are the health benefits of cabbage soup?
- Can I freeze cabbage soup?
- How long does cabbage soup last in the fridge?
- 📖 Recipe Card
Cabbage soup isn’t just any soup; it’s a culinary experience that brings back fond memories of family dinners where everyone gathered to share stories over a steaming pot. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or simply want something deliciously comforting on a cold day, this dish is your ticket to flavor town!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy-to-make cabbage soup requires minimal prep time while delivering maximum flavor.
- The vibrant colors from fresh vegetables make it visually appealing and perfect for impressing guests.
- Packed with nutrients, it’s an excellent choice for health-conscious eaters.
- Enjoy it as a light meal or pair it with crusty bread for something heartier!
I vividly remember the first time I made this cabbage soup. My friends couldn’t get enough; they were practically licking their bowls clean!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Cabbage: Choose firm heads without blemishes; green cabbage works great for its sweetness.
- Carrots: Fresh, vibrant carrots add color and natural sweetness to balance the dish.
- Onion: Use yellow onion for its mild sweetness as it caramelizes beautifully during cooking.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide that aromatic punch; crush them just before adding for maximum flavor.
- Vegetable Broth: A good quality broth enhances the flavors; homemade or store-bought works fine.
- Tomatoes (canned or fresh): They add acidity and depth; diced tomatoes are my personal favorite.
- Herbs (thyme and bay leaf): Fresh herbs elevate the taste profile; dried might work in a pinch but fresh is best!
- Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that you can adjust based on your taste preferences.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Prep Your Veggies: Start by washing all your veggies thoroughly. Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces, dice the onions, slice the carrots thinly, and mince the garlic.
Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and carrots first; sauté until they soften and become fragrant—about 5 minutes should do.
Add Garlic & Cabbage: Stir in minced garlic until fragrant (around 30 seconds). Next, toss in chopped cabbage and stir well until it wilts slightly—this takes about 3 minutes.
Pour in Broth & Tomatoes: Carefully pour in the vegetable broth along with canned or fresh diced tomatoes. Bring everything to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally.
Add Herbs & Seasoning: Toss in thyme sprigs and bay leaf, then season generously with salt and pepper. Reduce heat to low and let simmer for at least 20 minutes so all those flavors meld together beautifully.
Taste & Adjust Seasoning: After simmering, taste your soup! Feel free to adjust seasoning as needed—add more salt or pepper if you like it spicier!
Now sit down with that cozy bowl of cabbage soup you’ve just created! You deserve every spoonful of warmth and flavor after all that effort—a delightful reward for your hard work!
You Must Know
- Cabbage soup is a fantastic, low-calorie dish that warms the soul.
- It’s perfect for meal prep, and its flavors deepen as it sits.
- With a bit of creativity, you can use whatever veggies you have lying around for an exciting twist.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant; then add other vegetables for maximum flavor. This builds a solid base before adding broth and cabbage.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to toss in any leftover veggies or proteins to customize your cabbage soup. Herbs like thyme or dill can elevate the flavor profile significantly.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cabbage soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat on the stove or microwave until steaming hot for best results.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Using fresh cabbage ensures crunch and sweetness while cooking.
- Don’t skip the sautéing step; it adds depth to the dish.
- Try blending leftovers into a smoothie—just kidding!
- But seriously, it’s great as a base for many meals.
Cabbage soup was a staple in my house growing up, often made when we needed comfort food without guilt. Friends still rave about my version!
FAQ
What are the health benefits of cabbage soup?
Cabbage soup is low-calorie and packed with vitamins, making it a healthy option.
Can I freeze cabbage soup?
Yes, freezing cabbage soup is easy; just ensure it’s cooled before transferring to containers.
How long does cabbage soup last in the fridge?
Cabbage soup can be stored in the fridge for up to five days without losing flavor.
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📖 Recipe Card
Print
Cabbage Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
This comforting cabbage soup is a delicious blend of fresh vegetables and spices, perfect for cozy evenings spent with family and friends.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head green cabbage, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 tsp fresh thyme or 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash and chop all vegetables: chop the cabbage, slice the carrots, dice the onion, and mince the garlic.
- Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions and carrots; sauté until soft (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic until fragrant (around 30 seconds). Add chopped cabbage and stir until wilted (about 3 minutes).
- Pour in vegetable broth and diced tomatoes; bring to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally.
- Add thyme sprigs, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Reduce heat to low and simmer for at least 20 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 1.5 cups)
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg