Cabbage Soup

Cabbage Soup is a light, flavorful, and healthy dish that’s perfect for weight loss, detoxing, or simply enjoying a hearty vegetable-based meal. It’s often made with a combination of fresh vegetables, herbs, and seasonings, making it both nourishing and satisfying. Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for cabbage soup:

Cabbage Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 large carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional for extra flavor)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 bay leaf
• 1-2 cups water (to adjust consistency)
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the vegetables:

• Begin by chopping the cabbage, onion, carrots, and celery into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic.

2. Sauté the aromatics:

• In a large soup pot, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
• Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, being careful not to burn the garlic.

3. Cook the vegetables:

• Add the chopped carrots, celery, and cabbage to the pot and stir well. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the cabbage to wilt slightly and the vegetables to begin softening.

4. Add liquids and seasonings:

• Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices) and vegetable broth. Stir in the thyme, oregano, cumin (if using), bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Bring the soup to a simmer over medium heat. Once it begins simmering, reduce the heat to low and let it cook uncovered for about 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.

5. Adjust consistency:

• If the soup is too thick for your liking, add 1-2 cups of water to reach your desired consistency. Stir to combine.

6. Final seasoning and serve:

• Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.
• Remove the bay leaf before serving.
• Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.

Tips:

• Add protein: You can add beans (like white beans or kidney beans) or cooked chicken to make the soup heartier and more filling.
• Spicy kick: For a spicier version, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño.
• Storage: This soup stores well in the fridge for 3-4 days and can be frozen for longer storage. Just be sure to let it cool completely before storing.
• Flavor variations: Feel free to add other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans based on your preferences.

This Cabbage Soup is not only healthy and comforting but also versatile and easy to make. It’s perfect for meal prep, a light dinner, or as a side dish to any meal. Enjoy!