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Finding a recipe that is both incredibly healthy and genuinely delicious can be a challenge, but this Cabbage Soup Recipe hits the mark perfectly.
Whether you are looking for a light “reset” meal, a budget-friendly dinner for the family, or a cozy way to warm up on a cold evening, this soup delivers deep, savory flavor with minimal effort.
It’s packed with vibrant vegetables and aromatic spices, proving that simple, wholesome ingredients can truly shine when prepared with love.
The Ultimate Cabbage Soup Recipe
Why You’ll Love This Recipe: This soup is the ultimate “hug in a bowl“—nutrient-dense, budget-friendly, and incredibly flavorful. It’s a bright, satisfying meal that feels light but keeps you full, making it the perfect, reliable staple for any weeknight.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- Green Cabbage: 1 small head (900 g), shredded or chopped
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons (30 ml)
- Yellow Onion: 1 large, diced (150 g)
- Carrots: 3 large, sliced into rounds (200 g)
- Celery: 2 stalks, chopped (100 g)
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Broth (Vegetable or Chicken): 6 cups (1.4 liters)
- Diced Tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 oz or 411 g), with juice
- Dried Oregano: 1 teaspoon (5 ml)
- Smoked Paprika: 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml)
- Salt and Black Pepper: To taste
- Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon (15 ml)
Tools and Preparation
- 6-Quart Stockpot or Dutch Oven
- Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board
- Wooden Spoon
- Prep Tip: Remove the core of the cabbage before shredding it into 1-inch pieces for the best texture.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Sauté: Heat olive oil in the pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 6–8 minutes until softened.
- Season: Stir in garlic, oregano, and smoked paprika. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Wilt: Add the cabbage. Stir frequently for 5 minutes until it begins to shrink and soften.
- Deglaze: Add the tomatoes (with juice) and a splash of broth. Scrape the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits.
- Simmer: Pour in the remaining broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cook: Cover and simmer for 20–25 minutes until the cabbage and carrots are tender.
- Finish: Stir in the lemon juice and season generously with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Ladle into bowls and enjoy while the soup is still steaming hot!
Variations
- Add Protein: Stir in a can of white beans or 1 lb of cooked ground turkey.
- Extra Spice: Add 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes during the sauté step.
- Root Veggie Twist: Add 2 diced potatoes for a heartier, thicker soup.
Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days. This soup freezes beautifully for up to 3 months; just leave space at the top of the container for expansion.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking: Don’t let the cabbage simmer too long or it will become mushy and lose its sweetness.
- Skipping the Acid: The lemon juice (or a splash of vinegar) is vital to balance the earthy flavor of the cabbage.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is this the same as the “Cabbage Soup Diet” soup?
Yes, this recipe follows the core principles of that classic diet—being low-calorie, high-fiber, and hydrating—but we have focused on high-level culinary techniques, such as sautéing aromatics and blooming spices, to ensure it actually tastes delicious enough to eat, even when you’re not dieting.
Can I make this in an Instant Pot or Pressure Cooker?
Absolutely! Use the “Sauté” function for the first three steps. Then, add the liquids, seal the lid, and set to “Manual/Pressure Cook” for 5 minutes. Allow a natural pressure release (NPR) for 10 minutes to prevent the cabbage from becoming too soft before opening the valve.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about a meal that makes you feel as good as it tastes. This Cabbage Soup Recipe is a testament to the fact that you don’t need expensive ingredients or hours of complicated techniques to create a soul-warming dish.
It’s a reliable classic that fits into any lifestyle, providing a boost of nutrients in every steaming spoonful. This Cabbage Soup Recipe proves that simple ingredients can create deep, complex flavors. It’s a clean, comforting meal that hits the spot every single time.
Happy cooking!
