Cabbage Soup Recipe

If there’s one nourishing dish I’ll never outgrow, it’s a fragrant pot of Cabbage Soup bubbling away on the stove. It’s the kind of meal that manages to be both satisfyingly hearty and incredibly healthy, packed full of colorful veggies and irresistible flavor. Every spoonful feels like a warm hug, whether you’re craving a comforting dinner on a chilly night or aiming to sneak extra veggies into your week. With simple ingredients and a straightforward method, this Cabbage Soup is a cozy classic you’ll want on repeat.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Cabbage Soup shines brightest in its simplicity. Each ingredient adds a special something—flavor, texture, or color—that transforms humble veggies into a soul-soothing bowl of goodness. Here’s what you’ll need and why you’ll love each addition.

• Olive oil: Just a little to start the flavor-building process and lend a subtle richness.
• Onion (1 medium, chopped): The essential foundation, bringing deep, sweet savoriness to every bite.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): For aromatic magic—garlic’s warmth ties the whole pot together.
• Carrots (3, peeled and sliced): Their natural sweetness balances the slight tang of tomatoes beautifully.
• Celery (2 stalks, sliced): Brings a gentle crunch and even more classic soup flavor.
• Green cabbage (1 small head, chopped): The star of the show! Its tender leaves become melt-in-your-mouth soft.
• Diced tomatoes (1 can, 14.5 oz): Adds tang, color, and a touch of acidity to lift the flavors.
• Vegetable broth or chicken broth (6 cups): The liquid gold base for simmering everything together.
• Salt (1 teaspoon): Essential for heightening all the other tastes.
• Black pepper (1/2 teaspoon): For just the right hint of heat.
• Dried thyme (1 teaspoon): An earthy, floral note that makes the soup sing.
• Paprika (1/2 teaspoon): Adds gentle warmth and a little color—don’t skip this!
• Bay leaf (1): Infuses every ladleful with delicate herbal notes.
• Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish): A final sprinkle that wakes up every bowl with color and freshness.

How to Make Cabbage Soup

Step 1: Start with Flavor Foundations

In a large soup pot, heat your olive oil over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2–3 minutes, stirring frequently, until both are soft and fragrant. This step builds the flavor base that will carry the entire Cabbage Soup—you’ll smell the magic happening right away!

Step 2: Add Hearty Veggies

Next, stir in the sliced carrots and celery. Let them cook for another 5 minutes, just until they begin to soften and their bright colors intensify. This extra time in the pot means every veggie piece will be perfectly tender by the end, and their flavors will be amplified in the broth.

Step 3: Build the Brothy Base

Add in your chopped cabbage, canned diced tomatoes (including all the juices), and your broth of choice—vegetable or chicken works equally well. Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, dried thyme, paprika, and toss in the bay leaf. Give everything a good stir, making sure those seasonings are all nicely distributed.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Bring your soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat so it simmers contentedly, uncovered, for 25 to 30 minutes. This is when the cabbage gets tender, the veggies meld together, and all the flavors become deliciously layered. Before serving, don’t forget to fish out the bay leaf and taste for seasoning—add a pinch more salt or pepper if you like.

Step 5: Serve and Savor

Ladle your homemade Cabbage Soup into bowls while it’s piping hot. If you’re in a garnishing mood, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Each serving is vibrant, aromatic, and ready to be devoured!

How to Serve Cabbage Soup

Garnishes

Garnishing is where you can let your creativity shine! A scattering of fresh parsley brings a pop of color and fresh flavor that lifts every bowl of Cabbage Soup. For a richer twist, try a swirl of olive oil, a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper, or a dusting of grated Parmesan cheese. Fresh herbs like dill or chives can also add a fragrant finish.

Side Dishes

While this Cabbage Soup is plenty filling on its own, it truly sings beside a slice of crusty bread or a warm, buttery roll. If you want something extra, try serving with a grilled cheese sandwich or a simple chopped salad. For protein, a scoop of cooked beans or a side of roasted chicken rounds things out perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Think beyond the bowl: serve your Cabbage Soup in a hollowed-out sourdough bread bowl for a rustic touch, or use oversized mugs for a fun, cozy presentation at family gatherings. Pour it over cooked farro or brown rice for a heartier meal, or top with crunchy croutons for texture. Kids love it with fun-shaped crackers sprinkled on top!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cabbage Soup stores like a dream! Let your leftovers cool to room temperature, then transfer them to airtight containers. Tuck them into the fridge, and you’ll have easy, nutritious meals ready for up to four days. The flavors actually deepen as the soup sits, so it tastes even better the next day.

Freezing

This soup is perfect for freezing if you like meal prep or always want something wholesome on hand. Pour cooled Cabbage Soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy zip-top bags, leaving a bit of space at the top for expansion. Store for up to three months, and you’ll be grateful for a taste of homemade comfort whenever you need it most.

Reheating

For reheating, simply pour the soup into a pot and warm over low heat, stirring occasionally until hot all the way through. If you’re in a hurry, the microwave works just fine—use a microwave-safe bowl and reheat in 1-minute bursts, stirring between intervals. Add a splash of broth or water if you need to loosen it up.

FAQs

Can I add protein to my Cabbage Soup?

Absolutely! Stir in cooked ground beef or turkey for a classic twist, or drop in a can of drained beans for a vegetarian protein boost. Both options work beautifully and make the soup even heartier.

How do I keep the cabbage from getting mushy?

The trick is not to overcook the soup once the cabbage is tender. Simmer just until the cabbage softens—about 25 to 30 minutes keeps the texture perfect, not mushy.

Is this Cabbage Soup recipe gluten-free?

Yes, it is naturally gluten-free as written. Just check that your broth is certified gluten-free to be on the safe side, especially if you’re serving someone with celiac concerns.

Can I use red cabbage instead of green?

You certainly can! Red cabbage will make your soup even more colorful and give the broth a beautiful pink hue. The flavor will be slightly earthier, but just as delicious.

What’s the best way to make this soup spicier?

If you love a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a finely diced jalapeño along with the onions and garlic. Adjust to your taste for the perfect level of spice in every spoonful.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s both comforting and nourishing, you really can’t go wrong with a big simmering pot of Cabbage Soup. It’s proof that simple ingredients, a little love, and some patience are all you need to create something extraordinary. I hope you’ll try this recipe soon and make it your own family favorite!

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