Cabbage Soup is a nourishing, flavorful, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any time of the year. It’s packed with a variety of vegetables, making it both hearty and nutritious. This soup is ideal for those looking for a healthy meal option that’s low in calories but rich in vitamins and minerals. The combination of cabbage, celery, onions, carrots, and bell peppers simmered in a savory broth creates a satisfying soup that’s both comforting and delicious. Whether you’re trying to eat healthier, warm up on a chilly day, or simply enjoy a tasty vegetable soup, this Cabbage Soup is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
- ½ head of cabbage, chopped: Adds bulk and a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
- 1 cup celery, diced: Provides crunch and a subtle, earthy flavor.
- 1 cup white or yellow onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- 1 cup carrots, diced: Adds sweetness and color.
- 1 green bell pepper, diced: Adds a slight sweetness and crunch.
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a robust, aromatic flavor.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Provides a flavorful base (use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option).
- 14 oz can basil oregano, garlic diced tomatoes: Adds acidity, richness, and a blend of herbs.
- 1 teaspoon oregano: Adds a warm, slightly bitter flavor.
- 1 teaspoon basil: Adds a sweet, aromatic flavor.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adds a bit of heat.
- Few shakes of black pepper: Adds a touch of spice.
- ½ teaspoon salt (optional): Enhances the overall flavor (adjust to taste).
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients:
- Start by chopping the cabbage and dicing the celery, onion, carrots, and bell pepper. Mince the garlic and set aside.
- Sauté Vegetables:
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced celery, onions, bell peppers, and carrots. Sauté until the vegetables are slightly tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Garlic:
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter.
- Pour in Broth:
- Pour in the 4 cups of chicken broth, providing a flavorful base for the soup.
- Incorporate Tomatoes and Cabbage:
- Stir in the 14 oz can of basil oregano, garlic diced tomatoes, and the chopped cabbage. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.
- Simmer:
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow the soup to cook until the cabbage is tender, typically around 15-20 minutes.
- Season:
- Stir in the 1 teaspoon oregano, 1 teaspoon basil, ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes, a few shakes of black pepper, and ½ teaspoon salt (if using). These seasonings will enhance the flavors of the soup.
- Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning according to your preference, ensuring the perfect balance of flavors.
- Serve:
- Ladle the warm and comforting soup into bowls. Serve and enjoy the hearty goodness of this nutritious cabbage soup!
Nutrition Information (per serving)
- Calories: Approximately 100 kcal
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 8g
- Protein: 3g
Serving
Cabbage Soup is best served hot and makes a great starter or main course. It pairs well with crusty bread or a side salad. For added protein, you can top the soup with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or add some cooked beans or diced chicken. This soup is perfect for meal prep as it stores well and the flavors continue to develop over time.
Notes
- Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to make this soup vegetarian.
- Protein Boost: Add cooked beans, such as cannellini or chickpeas, or diced chicken to increase the protein content.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to control the heat level.
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat in a pot over medium heat or in the microwave until hot.
- Freezing: This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned? Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Substitute the canned diced tomatoes with 2 cups of diced fresh tomatoes. You may want to add a bit more oregano and basil to enhance the flavor.
How can I make this soup more filling? To make the soup more filling, add cooked beans, diced potatoes, or a grain like quinoa or barley.
Can I add meat to this soup? Yes, you can add cooked sausage, ground beef, or chicken to the soup for added protein and flavor. Brown the meat first and then add it to the soup along with the vegetables.
Is this soup gluten-free? Yes, this cabbage soup is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that the broth you use is also gluten-free.
What if I don’t have chicken broth? If you don’t have chicken broth, you can use vegetable broth or beef broth as a substitute. You can also use water and adjust the seasonings to taste.
Can I cook this soup in a slow cooker? Yes, you can cook this soup in a slow cooker. Combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
How do I adjust the consistency of the soup? If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth or let the soup simmer uncovered to reduce the liquid. For a thinner soup, add more broth or water.
Can I add other vegetables? Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables such as zucchini, green beans, or spinach. Add them in step 6 when incorporating the tomatoes and cabbage.
What can I use instead of olive oil? You can use any cooking oil such as canola, vegetable, or avocado oil instead of olive oil.
How do I reheat leftovers? Reheat leftovers in a pot over medium heat until hot, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
In conclusion, Cabbage Soup is a healthy, flavorful, and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its hearty vegetables and savory broth, it’s a comforting meal that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Enjoy this versatile soup with your favorite sides and customize it to your liking with additional ingredients. Happy cooking!