There’s something undeniably comforting about a steaming bowl of cabbage soup. Picture this: a bright, vibrant concoction bubbling away on the stove, filling your kitchen with an inviting aroma that dances in the air and wraps around you like a warm hug. comforting chicken soup recipe The colorful vegetables leap out at you, from the crisp green cabbage to the cheerful carrots and zesty herbs. hearty hamburger helper dish Each spoonful promises a delightful crunch paired with a mouthwatering broth that’s both hearty and refreshing. For more inspiration, check out this Mexican Corn Chicken Soup recipe.
Now, let me take you back to that chilly winter evening when I first whipped up this delightful dish. My family was huddled together, wrapped in blankets like burritos, and we needed something magical to warm our souls. As I ladled out the first servings of cabbage soup, the laughter and chatter filled the room. Everyone dove in, and the smiles on their faces told me I had created something special that would become a staple in our home. For more inspiration, check out this Italian Sausage Pasta Soup recipe.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Cabbage soup is incredibly easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays
- Its bold flavors burst with freshness from garden veggies and herbs
- Visually appealing with vibrant colors, it’s sure to impress anyone at your table
- This soup is versatile; you can easily adapt it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs
I recall one time my friend tried my cabbage soup for the first time; she declared it the best thing since sliced bread!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Cabbage: Use fresh green cabbage for its crunchy texture and mild flavor; look for firm heads without blemishes.
- Carrots: Choose bright orange carrots; they add sweetness and color to the soup.
- Celery: Fresh celery enhances flavor with its aromatic notes; opt for crisp stalks.
- Onion: A sweet yellow onion works best; it caramelizes beautifully when sautéed.
- Garlic: Fresh garlic adds depth; use cloves that are firm with no sprouting.
- Vegetable Broth: Homemade or store-bought, choose a low-sodium variety for better control over saltiness.
- Diced Tomatoes: Canned tomatoes provide acidity and richness; go for fire-roasted varieties if you can find them.
- Herbs (Thyme & Bay Leaves): Fresh thyme adds earthiness while bay leaves bring subtle layers of flavor.
- Black Pepper & Salt: Season generously but taste as you go for perfection!
- Lemon Juice (optional): A splash of lemon juice brightens up flavors perfectly; just don’t overdo it!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it together
Prep Your Veggies: Start by chopping all your veggies—cabbage, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic—into bite-sized pieces. This will ensure even cooking.
Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, add some olive oil. Once hot, toss in onions and garlic until they turn translucent and fragrant—about 3-5 minutes should do it!
Add Vegetables & Broth: Stir in chopped cabbage, carrots, celery, and diced tomatoes along with their juice. Pour in your vegetable broth until everything is submerged.
Season Generously: Sprinkle in black pepper, salt, thyme, and toss in bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil then reduce heat to simmer gently for about 30 minutes.
Taste & Adjust Flavors: After 30 minutes of simmering bliss, taste your soup! Add lemon juice if desired or adjust seasoning as necessary to enhance flavors.
Serve & Enjoy!: Ladle generous portions into bowls while garnishing with fresh herbs if available. Serve hot along with crusty bread for dipping!
This cabbage soup is not only simple but also offers room for creativity! Feel free to add any leftover proteins or grains you have lying around—the possibilities are endless!
You Must Know
- Cabbage soup is a delightful dish that’s not only healthy but also incredibly versatile
- The combination of veggies creates an aromatic symphony that fills your kitchen with warmth
- This soup is perfect for chilly evenings, and it’s a fantastic way to use up leftover vegetables
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by sautéing onions and garlic before adding chopped cabbage and other vegetables. This enhances flavor while keeping the texture intact, making each spoonful a delight.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in different vegetables like carrots or zucchini. Adding spices like paprika or cumin can elevate the taste profile, making it uniquely yours.
Storing & Reheating
Store your cabbage soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to preserve its flavor and texture.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh cabbage for better flavor; wilted leaves can make the soup taste flat
- Don’t rush cooking; simmering allows flavors to meld beautifully
- Experiment with herbs; fresh thyme or parsley adds brightness to every bowl
Cooking cabbage soup brings back fond memories of family gatherings where laughter echoed around the dinner table. soft pumpkin dinner rolls Everyone loved how warm and comforting it was, especially on cold winter nights.
FAQ
Can I freeze cabbage soup?
Yes, you can freeze it for up to three months in airtight containers.
What are good side dishes for cabbage soup?
Serve with crusty bread or a simple green salad for balance.
Is cabbage soup healthy?
Absolutely! It’s low-calorie yet packed with vitamins and minerals from fresh veggies.
Cabbage Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x
Description
Cabbage soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly evenings or cozy gatherings. This vibrant dish combines fresh cabbage, sweet carrots, and aromatic herbs in a hearty broth that warms the soul. With its colorful ingredients and delightful crunch, it’s not only nourishing but also incredibly easy to make. Customize it with your favorite vegetables or proteins for a personal touch. Gather your loved ones around the table and enjoy a steaming bowl of this delicious cabbage soup!
Ingredients
- 1 medium green cabbage, chopped
- 2 large carrots, diced
- 2 stalks celery, chopped
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 2 tsp fresh thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tsp lemon juice (optional)
Instructions
- Chop cabbage, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic into bite-sized pieces.
- In a large pot over medium heat, warm olive oil and sauté onions and garlic until translucent (3-5 minutes).
- Add chopped cabbage, carrots, celery, and diced tomatoes with their juice; pour in vegetable broth until submerged.
- Season with salt, black pepper, thyme, and bay leaves; bring to a gentle boil then reduce heat to simmer for about 30 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning or add lemon juice as desired.
- Serve hot in bowls garnished with fresh herbs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 2g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Feel free to add leftover proteins or grains for extra heartiness. Experiment with spices like paprika or cumin to enhance flavor. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days.