Dolly Parton Cabbage Soup Recipe

When you think of Dolly Parton, your mind probably wanders to her dazzling performances, heartfelt lyrics, and infectious personality. But did you know that she’s also got some serious culinary skills? Her cabbage soup recipe is a fan favorite for many reasons-it’s nutritious, easy to make, and has that authentic homemade flavor that brings a sense of comfort to any meal. What makes this recipe even more special is its simplicity and versatility. You can whip it up on a chilly day, make it ahead for meal prepping, or even adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences.

Dolly has always been an advocate for healthy living, and her cabbage soup fits into that ethos perfectly. It’s a low-calorie, high-fiber meal that’s both filling and nourishing. Plus, it’s a great option if you’re looking to shed a few pounds or cleanse your body with wholesome ingredients.

Let’s break down the recipe in detail, starting with the ingredients you’ll need.

This cabbage soup recipe is a hearty, flavorful meal that pairs wonderfully with fresh bread or a side of grilled chicken. The key to Dolly’s recipe is using fresh, high-quality vegetables and combining them in a way that maximizes flavor without overpowering the natural sweetness of the cabbage.

Ingredients Needed

The ingredients in this recipe are pretty straightforward, but there are some nuances that make it stand out. Here’s what you’ll need to gather:

1 medium head of cabbage: The star of the show! Cabbage is full of fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making it the perfect base for a healthy soup.
1 large onion: Adds a touch of sweetness and depth to the broth.
2 carrots: For a bit of crunch and natural sweetness.
2 celery stalks: A nice balance to the other veggies, lending freshness and texture.
4 cloves garlic: For that savory kick and aromatic base.
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: This gives the soup a rich, slightly tangy tomato base that brings everything together.
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth: The liquid that will carry all the flavors and provide the necessary body to the soup.
2 teaspoons dried basil: A classic herb that pairs well with cabbage and gives a lovely herbal undertone.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds an earthy, warm flavor.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the overall taste and helps all the flavors pop.
1/2 teaspoon black pepper: For a touch of spice.
Optional: 1-2 teaspoons of red pepper flakes: If you like a little heat, this is the perfect addition.

This collection of ingredients is simple but packs a punch when it comes to flavor.

Cooking Instructions

Now, let’s talk about how to bring all these wonderful ingredients together to make Dolly’s delicious cabbage soup. The process is easy and doesn’t require any special culinary techniques. Here’s how you do it:

Prepare The Vegetables
- Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Don’t worry about making them perfectly uniform-rustic cuts are perfectly fine.
- Slice the carrots and celery into thin, even pieces. Mince the garlic and chop the onion into small chunks.
Sauté The Aromatics
- In a large pot, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, sautéing them for 2-3 minutes until they soften and become fragrant.
Add The Rest Of The Veggies
- Toss in the carrots, celery, and cabbage. Stir everything together, letting it cook for another 5 minutes, until the cabbage starts to soften.
Add The Liquids And Seasonings
- Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and the can of diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir in the basil, oregano, salt, and black pepper (and red pepper flakes if you want some heat). Bring everything to a boil.
Simmer
- Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 30-40 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together and the cabbage to become tender.
Taste And Adjust
- Taste the soup towards the end of the cooking time. If you think it needs more salt or pepper, feel free to adjust. If the soup is too thick for your liking, you can always add a little more broth or water to thin it out.
Serve
- Once the cabbage is tender and the flavors have developed, ladle the soup into bowls. You can top it with some fresh herbs, a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkle of grated cheese, though it’s great on its own too!

Ingredient Insights

Let’s take a closer look at why some of these ingredients are so important for both flavor and health:

Cabbage: This vegetable is packed with vitamin C and K and is low in calories, making it an excellent base for soups. Cabbage is also known for its high fiber content, which supports digestive health.
Onions and Garlic: These two ingredients are essential for building depth of flavor. Garlic contains allicin, a compound with anti-inflammatory properties, while onions are high in antioxidants that can help protect against heart disease.
Carrots: Rich in beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A, carrots support eye health and the immune system.
Tomatoes: Full of lycopene, an antioxidant, tomatoes help reduce the risk of chronic diseases and boost heart health.
Herbs: Basil and oregano are more than just flavor enhancers. They’re also packed with antioxidants and anti-inflammatory properties, making this soup both tasty and health-boosting.

Expert Tips

If you want to really nail Dolly’s cabbage soup, here are some expert tips to elevate the dish even further:

Sauté your vegetables well: Don’t rush the sautéing process. Allow the onions, garlic, and other veggies to soften and caramelize a bit before adding the broth. This will develop deeper flavors.
Let the soup sit: Like many soups, cabbage soup often tastes even better the next day. Let it sit overnight in the fridge, and the flavors will continue to develop.
Add protein: If you want a more filling soup, you can add a lean protein like shredded chicken or even beans for a vegetarian option. This will make it heartier and more satisfying.
Use homemade broth: If you have the time, homemade vegetable or chicken broth will really take the flavor up a notch. Store-bought versions can sometimes be too salty or bland.

Recipe Variations

While Dolly’s cabbage soup is fantastic on its own, you can easily tweak it to suit your tastes. Here are some fun variations to consider:

Spicy Cabbage Soup: Add more red pepper flakes or even a chopped jalapeño for an extra kick.
Vegetarian/Vegan Cabbage Soup: Simply use vegetable broth and leave out any animal-based ingredients, like chicken or beef stock.
Asian-Inspired Cabbage Soup: Add a splash of soy sauce and some grated ginger, along with a handful of spinach or bok choy. You could even top it with sesame seeds for added crunch.
Creamy Cabbage Soup: For a richer, creamier version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk right before serving.

Final Words

This cabbage soup recipe from Dolly Parton is not only a great way to enjoy a healthy and hearty meal, but it also represents the warmth and hominess Dolly brings to everything she does. With its simple ingredients, straightforward preparation, and customizable variations, this soup is a perfect addition to your recipe collection. It’s ideal for meal prepping, as it stores well in the fridge and even freezes beautifully.

Dolly Parton Cabbage Soup Recipe