Here’s a simple and hearty Cabbage Soup recipe that’s full of flavor and perfect for a light, comforting meal. This soup is packed with vegetables and can be easily customized with different seasonings and protein options.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil (or any cooking oil)
- 1 medium carrot, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 small head of cabbage, shredded or chopped
- 1 large potato, peeled and diced (optional, for a heartier soup)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1-2 tbsp apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (for added tang)
- Fresh parsley or dill, for garnish (optional)
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 cup cooked beans (such as white beans or chickpeas) for extra protein
- 1 cup cooked chicken, turkey, or sausage for a meaty version
- 1-2 cups frozen peas or green beans for added texture
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
Chop the onion, garlic, carrot, celery, and potato (if using). Shred or chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add the carrot and celery and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Cook the Soup:
Add the shredded cabbage, diced potatoes (if using), canned tomatoes with juices, vegetable broth, thyme, oregano, and bay leaf to the pot. Stir well to combine.
4. Simmer:
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer, covered, for about 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Stir occasionally and check the seasoning.
5. Adjust the Flavor:
Season the soup with salt, pepper, and a tablespoon or two of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice to brighten the flavors. Adjust to taste.
6. Serve:
Remove the bay leaf and discard. Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with fresh parsley or dill if desired.
Tips:
- Make it spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño for a little heat.
- Add some grains: For extra heartiness, you can add cooked quinoa, rice, or barley to the soup.
- Make it a meal: Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread or a simple salad for a complete, satisfying meal.
- Storage: This soup stores well in the fridge for 3-4 days and freezes beautifully for up to 3 months.
This Cabbage Soup is healthy, filling, and perfect for warming up on cold days. It’s also a great way to get in a variety of vegetables in one meal!