Let me set the scene: it’s a chilly day, and you’re craving something warm, hearty, and healthy—but still budget-friendly. Friends, this Cabbage Soup is your answer! It’s inspired by my mom’s favorite weeknight go-to, where simple ingredients meet a simmering pot of magic. Bonus? It’s light, nutritious, and great for meal prepping.
Hook: If comfort had a flavor, it’d be this cabbage soup. Cozy, nourishing, and ridiculously easy to make!
### **Why You’ll Love This Recipe**
– **Super Simple Ingredients:** You might already have most of these staples in your kitchen.
– **Healthy and Light:** Perfect for a detox day or when you want to eat something wholesome that doesn’t weigh you down.
– **Budget-Friendly:** A great way to stretch your ingredients without sacrificing flavor.
– **One-Pot Wonder:** Fewer dishes. More time to relax and enjoy!
### **Ingredients Breakdown**
#### Essentials
– **Cabbage:** The star of the show! Green or savoy cabbage works wonders. Chop it up bite-sized for the perfect texture.
– **Vegetable Broth:** Brings depth and heartiness. I recommend low-sodium broth so you can control the salt.
– **Tomatoes (Canned or Fresh):** Crushed or diced, tomatoes add a tangy balance.
– **Onions and Garlic:** These base ingredients add aromatic richness.
– **Carrots and Celery:** Classic soup additions for crunch and natural sweetness.
– **Herbs and Spices:** Bay leaf, thyme, and a touch of smoked paprika for a subtle kick. If you’ve got fresh parsley, reserve it for garnish!
#### Pro Tips
– **Need protein?** Add white beans, lentils, or shredded rotisserie chicken.
– **Low-carb option?** Skip the carrots and add cauliflower instead for a similar texture.
### **Step-by-Step Instructions**
1. **Prep Your Veg:** Chop cabbage, dice onions, carrots, and celery. Mince the garlic for a flavor boost.
2. **Sauté the Base:** Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot. Add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook on medium heat until softened and fragrant—about 5 minutes.
3. **Add Liquid Gold:** Stir in the vegetable broth, tomatoes, and your seasonings (bay leaf, thyme, smoked paprika). Let it simmer for 10 minutes to marry the flavors.
4. **Add Cabbage:** Stir in the chopped cabbage, cover the pot, and let it all simmer for about 20-25 minutes until the cabbage is tender but not mushy.
5. **Taste and Adjust:** Add salt and pepper as needed. Always taste before serving—this is your moment to balance the flavors!
6. **Serve:** Ladle the soup into bowls, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top, and dig in.
### **Chef’s Tips and Tricks**
– When sautéing your veggies, don’t rush. Caramelizing the onions a bit deepens the soup’s overall flavor.
– Make ahead! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld in the fridge.
– Want it chunky or smooth? Use a stick blender for a creamier texture or leave it chunky for that rustic vibe.
### **Recipe Variations and Serving Suggestions**
– **Spice It Up:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to heat things up or a splash of vinegar for tang.
– **Serve It Right:** Pair with crusty bread or a grilled cheese for the ultimate comfort combo.
– **More Hearty?** Add brown rice, quinoa, or cooked pasta for a filling twist.
### **FAQs**
#### Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely! Let it cool completely, then store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It’ll keep for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat on the stove or microwave.
#### How long does it last in the fridge?
This cabbage soup keeps well for 4-5 days in the refrigerator. Perfect for meal prep!
#### Can I use red cabbage instead of green?
Yes, but it might turn the broth a little purple! The flavor is still delicious.
### **Cabbage Soup Recipe Card**
Cabbage Soup
Prep Time: 15 mins | Cook Time: 30 mins | Total Time: 45 mins | Servings: 6
#### **Ingredients**
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 32 oz vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) of crushed or diced tomatoes
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 carrots, sliced
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, for garnish
#### **Instructions**
1. Heat olive oil in a pot and sauté onions, garlic, carrots, and celery for 5 minutes.
2. Add broth, tomatoes, bay leaf, thyme, and smoked paprika. Simmer for 10 minutes.
3. Stir in cabbage, cover, and cook for 20-25 minutes until tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper. Garnish and enjoy!
There you have it—a soup that not only warms your body but also your soul. When you try it, tag your creation with #TheKitchensAid—I’d love to see what you come up with! Happy cooking!
