Classic Cabbage Soup Recipe

Cabbage soup – a dish that might evoke memories of comforting childhood meals, diet plans, or even old family traditions. But beyond these associations, cabbage soup is a hidden gem in the world of healthy, hearty meals. It’s not just a simple, low-calorie bowl of vegetables; it’s a flavorful and nutritious dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you’re looking to kickstart a weight-loss journey, enjoy a cozy meal on a chilly evening, or just eat something that’s both filling and nourishing, cabbage soup fits the bill perfectly.

In this guide, we’re going to dive deep into making a classic cabbage soup that’s sure to win hearts. We’ll break down the recipe step by step, offer tips, explore variations, and provide ingredient insights so you can make the most out of every bite.

Ready to start simmering? Let’s go!

This classic cabbage soup recipe is all about fresh vegetables, savory flavors, and a bit of warmth. It’s the perfect balance between a simple, clean dish and a hearty meal that can satisfy your hunger without being overly rich.

The Basics

The soup is made up of primarily cabbage, carrots, onions, and tomatoes, combined with a flavorful broth. It’s the kind of dish you can make in large batches, and it stores well in the fridge for several days.

The Best Part

Cabbage is packed with nutrients like vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, so not only does this soup taste great, but it also provides a lot of health benefits. Let’s take a look at what you need to get started.

Ingredients Needed

To make the perfect classic cabbage soup, here’s a list of the ingredients you’ll need:

1 medium head of green cabbage (about 2 pounds), shredded or chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil (or any oil of your choice)
1 large onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
3 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
2 celery stalks, diced
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes (with juice)
4 cups vegetable or chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
2 teaspoons dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice or vinegar (adds brightness)

Feel free to add any extra ingredients based on your personal taste, like bell peppers, zucchini, or even a handful of fresh herbs for extra flavor.

Cooking Instructions

Now, let’s get to the good part: making the soup! The cooking process is straightforward and gives you a chance to enjoy the evolving aromas of the dish as it comes together.

Prep the Vegetables: Start by shredding or chopping the cabbage. Dice the onion, chop the carrots, and slice the celery. Mince the garlic.
Heat the Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened and translucent. This will build a solid flavor base.
Sauté the Garlic and Veggies: Add the garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Stir occasionally, letting them cook for another 4-5 minutes until the carrots start to soften. This allows the vegetables to release their natural flavors.
Add the Cabbage: Now, add the shredded cabbage to the pot. Stir everything together to combine. Cabbage has a lot of moisture, so it will start to wilt down and shrink as it cooks.
Add the Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and the can of diced tomatoes, including their juice. Stir in the thyme, oregano, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. The tomatoes will add a subtle tang and umami depth to the soup.
Simmer the Soup: Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 30-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cabbage should be tender, and the broth will have developed a rich flavor.
Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or even a splash of lemon juice or vinegar if you want a bit of acidity to brighten it up.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. You can garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese if you prefer.

Ingredient Insights

To really understand the magic of this soup, let’s explore a few of the key ingredients and their benefits:

Cabbage

Packed with vitamin C, which supports your immune system.
High in fiber, which is great for digestion and can help keep you full.
A good source of antioxidants that can help reduce inflammation in the body.

Carrots

Full of beta-carotene (which your body converts into vitamin A), important for vision and skin health.
Provides natural sweetness that balances the savory broth of the soup.

Garlic

A natural immune booster, known for its antibacterial and antiviral properties.
Adds an earthy, aromatic base to the soup.

Tomatoes

Rich in lycopene, an antioxidant that has been shown to promote heart health and protect against certain types of cancer.
Adds a slight tang to cut through the richness of the cabbage and broth.

Herbs & Spices

Thyme and oregano are aromatic and earthy, providing depth to the soup.
A bay leaf adds subtle, aromatic flavor, while salt and pepper help balance everything out.

Expert Tips

To make this cabbage soup even better, here are some expert tips:

Use fresh cabbage: While pre-shredded cabbage is convenient, using fresh cabbage will give your soup a better texture and flavor.
Let it sit: If you have time, let the soup sit for an hour or two after cooking. This allows the flavors to meld together and intensifies the taste.
Add protein: If you want to turn this into a more substantial meal, consider adding beans, lentils, or even chicken breast for extra protein.
Go low-sodium: Opting for low-sodium broth and being mindful of the salt will help keep the soup on the healthier side.
Try a squeeze of fresh lemon juice: Adding a squeeze of lemon just before serving can brighten the flavor and cut through the richness of the soup.
Double it up: This soup makes great leftovers, so consider making a larger batch for meals throughout the week. It stores well in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Recipe Variations

While the classic cabbage soup is delicious on its own, there are so many ways to switch it up based on your preferences or what you have on hand:

Add beans or lentils: For added protein, toss in a can of drained beans (such as kidney, white, or black beans) or some lentils. This will make the soup heartier and more filling.
Add meat: If you’re not vegetarian, you can easily add some cooked ground turkey, beef, or chicken to the soup for extra protein and flavor.
Spice it up: Add some red pepper flakes or chopped fresh chili peppers if you like a bit of heat.
Swap the broth: Use vegetable broth for a plant-based option or chicken broth for a richer flavor.
Add grains: For a more filling option, add cooked rice, quinoa, or barley to the soup.

Feel free to get creative and add your personal touch to the recipe!

Final Words

Cabbage soup might be simple, but it’s so much more than just a light meal. The combination of fresh vegetables, fragrant herbs, and rich broth makes it a comforting dish that can be enjoyed year-round. Whether you’re sticking to a healthy diet or just craving something cozy, this soup fits any occasion. Plus, it’s a dish that’s as flexible as you need it to be – whether you want to keep it light and vegetarian or make it a heartier meal with protein and grains.

Classic Cabbage Soup Recipe