If you’re searching for a comforting, nourishing, and downright delicious dish, look no further than the Best Cabbage Soup Recipe. This soup is a vibrant medley of fresh vegetables and fragrant herbs that come together in a hearty broth, delivering warmth and flavor with every spoonful. Perfect for chilly evenings or a light but satisfying lunch, this recipe is easy to make, uses wholesome ingredients, and can be customized to your taste. Once you try this, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen rotation.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Simple, fresh, and pantry-friendly ingredients make this soup a breeze to put together. Each component plays a vital role, from the tender sweetness of carrots to the robust depth the tomato paste adds, and of course, the star — crisp, vibrant cabbage.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides a subtle fruity richness and helps soften the veggies.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Adds a foundational sweetness and aroma.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
- 3 medium carrots, sliced: Give natural sweetness plus a lovely splash of color.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Adds crunch and an aromatic base for the broth.
- 1 small green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups): The star ingredient, it’s hearty, nutritious, and so satisfying.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes: Introduces acidity and a touch of tanginess to balance the flavors.
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth: The nourishing liquid foundation that melds everything beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and adds richness.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Infuses the soup with a gentle herbal note.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Offers a hint of smoky warmth without overpowering.
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano: Adds a subtle earthiness and depth.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential to balance and enhance all the flavors.
- Optional: 1 teaspoon lemon juice or red wine vinegar: A splash that brightens the final taste beautifully.
- Fresh parsley, for garnish: Adds freshness and a pop of color just before serving.
How to Make Best Cabbage Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat, then add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook them gently for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This step softens the vegetables and builds the flavorful base that makes this soup so inviting.
Step 2: Add the cabbage
Next, stir in the chopped cabbage and cook for another 5 minutes. You’ll notice it beginning to wilt and mellow, adding both texture and a subtle sweetness that balances perfectly with the other ingredients.
Step 3: Combine the remaining ingredients
Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, followed by the broth, tomato paste, dried thyme, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir, then bring the mixture to a rolling boil before lowering the heat. Let the soup simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes, allowing all those flavors to blend and the vegetables to become tender and soul-soothing.
Step 4: Final seasoning touches
Before serving, taste your soup and adjust seasoning as needed. If you enjoy a bright, tangy note, stir in a teaspoon of lemon juice or red wine vinegar. This little detail lifts the broth and adds a fresh finish you won’t want to skip.
How to Serve Best Cabbage Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley brightens the bowl instantly and adds a burst of color and mild herbal freshness. Feel free to experiment with other herbs like chives or dill for a different twist.
Side Dishes
This soup stands beautifully on its own but pairs wonderfully with warm crusty bread, a crisp green salad, or even a dollop of creamy sour cream or Greek yogurt to add richness. These sides round out the meal perfectly without overwhelming the lightness of the soup.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in rustic bowls for a cozy vibe, or get fancy by garnishing with toasted pumpkin seeds or a drizzle of chili oil for some heat. For a heartier presentation, top with shredded cheese or a scoop of cooked grains like quinoa or rice to turn it into a filling one-pot meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup stores beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers an even better treat.
Freezing
If you want to keep this Best Cabbage Soup Recipe on hand for busy days, it freezes extremely well. Transfer cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing flavor.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much. Microwave reheating works fine too—just cover and heat in short intervals to keep it from drying out.
FAQs
Can I use green or red cabbage interchangeably in this recipe?
Absolutely! Both green and red cabbage work well, though red cabbage may slightly change the color and add a bit more earthiness. Feel free to use whichever you prefer or have on hand.
Is this Best Cabbage Soup Recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Definitely! Using vegetable broth keeps it fully vegetarian. If you use chicken broth, the soup remains delicious but is no longer vegetarian. Vegan eaters just need to double-check the broth choice to keep it plant-based.
Can I add protein to make this soup more filling?
Yes, adding cooked beans, shredded cooked chicken, or ground turkey can turn this into a more substantial meal. Adding grain like cooked rice or quinoa also boosts heartiness and nutritional value.
What can I do if the soup tastes bland?
First, check your salt and pepper levels, as these really help flavors shine. Adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a dash of vinegar can brighten bland flavors instantly. Fresh herbs sprinkled on top also add vibrancy and lift the taste.
Is this soup low calorie and healthy?
Yes, this recipe is naturally low in calories and full of fiber and vitamins from fresh vegetables, making it a fantastic healthy option. It’s perfect for anyone looking for a light yet satisfying meal.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend trying the Best Cabbage Soup Recipe enough—it’s cozy, nourishing, and just downright delicious. Whether you’re new to cabbage soup or a longtime fan, this version is easy to make and full of flavor that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Grab your ingredients and give it a go; I promise it will brighten your mealtime and probably even your day!
Print
Best Cabbage Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian, Gluten Free, Low Carb
Description
This Best Cabbage Soup is a wholesome, flavorful, and easy-to-make vegetable soup perfect for a healthy meal. Packed with fresh cabbage, carrots, celery, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, it’s light yet satisfying and can be prepared in under an hour on the stovetop. Ideal for vegetarians and those seeking a gluten-free, low-carb option, this soup also offers the flexibility to add proteins or grains for a heartier dish.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Aromatics
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 small green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
Liquids and Tomatoes
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
Herbs and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon lemon juice or red wine vinegar (for brightness)
Garnish
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
- Add Cabbage: Stir in the chopped green cabbage. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the cabbage to begin wilting while mixing well with the other vegetables.
- Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, broth, and tomato paste. Add dried thyme, paprika, dried oregano, and season with salt and black pepper. Stir everything to combine.
- Simmer Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let the soup simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until all vegetables are tender and flavors meld beautifully.
- Adjust Flavor and Finish: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Stir in lemon juice or red wine vinegar if you want to add a bright acidic note.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy.
Notes
- To make the soup heartier, consider adding cooked beans, ground turkey, or cooked rice.
- This soup freezes well and often tastes even better the next day as flavors develop.
- Use vegetable broth to keep the soup vegetarian or chicken broth for added depth of flavor.
- Adjust spices to match your taste preferences or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
