Cabbage soup

Here’s a classic, hearty Cabbage Soup recipe that’s warm, healthy, budget-friendly, and easy to make. You can do it on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or even in an Instant Pot. It’s naturally low in calories but packed with flavor – perfect for a light meal or as part of a healthy eating plan.

🥣 Classic Cabbage Soup Recipe

🥬 Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 3 carrots, peeled and sliced

• 2 celery stalks, sliced

• 1 small head of green cabbage, chopped

• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)

• 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth

• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• ½ teaspoon thyme

• Optional: 1 teaspoon smoked paprika or red pepper flakes for a little kick

• Optional: 1–2 cups chopped green beans, zucchini, or bell pepper

• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

• Juice of ½ lemon (optional, for brightness)

👩‍🍳 Instructions:

Stovetop Method:

1. Sauté aromatics:
   In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5–6 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.

2. Add the rest:
   Stir in cabbage, diced tomatoes (with juice), broth, and all seasonings. Add optional veggies now if using.

3. Simmer:
   Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until cabbage and vegetables are tender.

4. Finish & serve:
   Taste and adjust seasoning. Stir in lemon juice if desired. Garnish with parsley and serve hot.

Slow Cooker Version:

1. Add all ingredients to your crock pot.

2. Cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until vegetables are tender.

3. Stir, adjust seasoning, and serve.

Instant Pot Version:

1. Use the Sauté function to cook onion, celery, and carrots in oil for a few minutes. Add garlic last.

2. Stir in remaining ingredients.

3. Seal the lid and cook on Manual (High Pressure) for 5 minutes.

4. Quick release the pressure. Stir and serve.

📝 Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 can of beans (white beans, kidney, or chickpeas)

• Cooked ground turkey, sausage, or shredded chicken

• A handful of spinach or kale at the end for extra greens

• A few diced potatoes for heartiness

• A splash of hot sauce or apple cider vinegar for zing

🥄 Storage:

• Fridge: Lasts 4–5 days

• Freezer: Freezes well for up to 3 months