Easy Cabbage Soup is a healthy, hearty, and comforting dish that’s quick to prepare and full of flavor. This soup is made with simple ingredients like cabbage, carrots, and tomatoes, making it both budget-friendly and nutritious. It’s perfect for a light meal, and it can be easily customized to fit your tastes.
Here’s a basic recipe for Easy Cabbage Soup:
Easy Cabbage Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 small head of green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
- 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (or fresh tomatoes, chopped)
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 tsp black pepper (or to taste)
- 1 bay leaf (optional)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Ingredients:
- Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces.
- Peel and slice the carrots.
- Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the onion is softened and fragrant.
3. Add the Vegetables and Broth:
- Add the chopped cabbage and sliced carrots to the pot. Stir to combine with the onions and garlic.
- Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and the can of diced tomatoes (with their juice).
- Add the thyme, salt, pepper, and bay leaf (if using). Stir everything together.
4. Simmer the Soup:
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, covered, for about 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
- If you like a thicker soup, you can mash some of the vegetables with the back of a spoon to break them down slightly.
5. Finish and Serve:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or thyme to your liking.
- If desired, add 1 tablespoon of lemon juice for a burst of brightness.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chopped green onions if desired.
Tips for Success:
- Add Protein: To make this soup more filling, you can add beans, lentils, or cooked chicken for extra protein.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat in your soup.
- Herb Variations: Feel free to add other herbs like basil, oregano, or rosemary for a different flavor profile.
- Storage: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Enjoy!
This Easy Cabbage Soup is light yet filling, making it a great option for a healthy meal or a comforting bowl of soup on a chilly day. It’s packed with nutrients and can be customized with your favorite vegetables or proteins for a heartier version.