Cozy Cabbage Soup

Cozy Cabbage Soup is a hearty, warming dish that’s perfect for chilly days or when you’re looking for a comforting, nourishing meal. Made with tender cabbage, a medley of fresh vegetables, and a flavorful broth, this soup is both satisfying and surprisingly light. Whether you’re aiming to enjoy a wholesome family dinner, prepare a healthy meal for the week, or simply use up some vegetables from your fridge, this cabbage soup is the answer.

What makes Cozy Cabbage Soup special is its versatility. You can keep it vegetarian, add ground meat for extra protein, or incorporate grains like rice or quinoa for a more filling option. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, uses simple pantry staples, and is packed with nutrients like fiber and vitamins from the fresh vegetables.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to make this comforting soup step by step, while offering tips, variations, and ideas to elevate this dish to suit your taste. Let’s dive into this flavorful bowl of comfort!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Here’s why this Cozy Cabbage Soup will become a staple in your recipe rotation:

1. Wholesome and Nutritious: Packed with vegetables, this soup is full of vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making it as healthy as it is delicious.
2. Budget-Friendly: With affordable ingredients like cabbage, carrots, and celery, this soup is easy on your wallet without sacrificing flavor.
3. Easy to Make: With simple steps and minimal prep time, this soup comes together quickly for an effortless meal.
4. Customizable: Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, or a meat lover, you can tailor this soup to your dietary preferences.
5. Perfect for Meal Prep: Cozy Cabbage Soup stores and reheats beautifully, making it ideal for weekly meal prep or leftovers.

Preparation Time and Servings

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings
• Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 2 cups)

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: 120
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 4g
• Fiber: 5g
• Sugar: 7g

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 3 celery stalks, sliced
• 1 small head of green cabbage, core removed and chopped (about 6 cups)
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a non-vegetarian option)
• 1 medium potato, peeled and diced (optional, for added heartiness)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• Salt, to taste

Optional Add-Ins:

• 1 cup cooked rice, quinoa, or barley
• 1 cup cooked ground beef, turkey, or sausage
• 1 (15-ounce) can white beans or kidney beans, drained and rinsed

Optional Toppings:

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Crushed red pepper flakes

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Wash and chop all the vegetables. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, slice the carrots and celery, and chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. If using a potato, peel and dice it into small cubes.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Heat the olive oil or butter in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

1. Stir in the sliced carrots, celery, and potato (if using). Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.

Step 4: Add the Cabbage and Tomatoes

1. Add the chopped cabbage to the pot and stir to combine with the other vegetables. Cook for 2-3 minutes to allow the cabbage to start wilting.
2. Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices) and stir well.

Step 5: Add the Broth and Seasonings

1. Pour in the vegetable broth (or chicken broth) and stir to combine.
2. Add the dried thyme, oregano, bay leaf, smoked paprika (if using), black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir to distribute the seasonings evenly.

Step 6: Simmer the Soup

1. Bring the soup to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a lid and let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
2. Stir occasionally and taste the broth halfway through cooking, adjusting the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.

Step 7: Add Optional Add-Ins

1. If adding cooked rice, quinoa, barley, beans, or meat, stir them into the soup during the last 5 minutes of cooking to warm through.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

1. Remove the bay leaf from the soup before serving.
2. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, grated Parmesan cheese, or crushed red pepper flakes, if desired. Serve with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.

Ingredient Background

Cabbage

Cabbage is the star of this soup, providing a subtle sweetness and tender texture when cooked. It’s rich in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, making it a nutritious and budget-friendly ingredient.

Tomatoes

Diced tomatoes add acidity and brightness to the soup, balancing the sweetness of the cabbage and other vegetables. The juices from the can also help create a rich, flavorful broth.

Broth

Vegetable broth keeps this soup vegetarian, but chicken broth adds an extra depth of flavor for non-vegetarian versions. Use low-sodium broth to control the salt content.

Herbs and Spices

Dried thyme, oregano, and bay leaf give the soup a comforting, herby aroma, while smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky warmth. Adjust the spices to suit your preferences.

Technique Tips

1. Cut Vegetables Evenly: Chop the vegetables into uniform pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
2. Layer the Flavors: Sautéing the onions, garlic, and vegetables before adding the broth helps build a deeper, richer flavor.
3. Don’t Overcook: Simmer the soup just until the vegetables are tender; overcooking can make them mushy.
4. Boost the Flavor: If your soup tastes bland, add a splash of vinegar (such as apple cider vinegar) or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten it up.

Alternative Presentation Ideas

• Bread Bowl: Serve the cabbage soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl for a rustic presentation.
• Hearty Stew: Add more potatoes, beans, or grains to turn the soup into a thick, hearty stew.
• Smooth Soup: Blend the soup partially or completely for a creamy, velvety texture.

Additional Tips for Success

• Storage: Refrigerate leftover soup in an airtight container for up to 5 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even tastier the next day.
• Freezing: This soup freezes well! Let it cool completely, then store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.
• Low-Carb Option: Skip the potatoes and grains to make the soup lower in carbohydrates.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Cabbage Soup: Add red pepper flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
• Creamy Version: Stir in ½ cup of heavy cream or coconut milk during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a creamy texture.
• Meaty Twist: Brown ground beef, turkey, or sausage and add it to the soup for a heartier meal.
• Mediterranean Style: Add olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired twist.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigeration

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot.

Freezing

1. Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
2. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Lay the bags flat in the freezer for efficient storage.
3. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Healthier Twist Ideas

• Use low-sodium broth to reduce salt content.
• Add more leafy greens like spinach or kale for an extra nutrient boost.
• Replace potatoes with cauliflower for a low-carb alternative.

Serving Suggestions for Events

Cozy Cabbage Soup is versatile and works for various occasions:

• Weeknight Dinner: Pair with crusty bread or cornbread for a simple, satisfying meal.
• Meal Prep: Make a large batch on Sunday to enjoy for lunch or dinner throughout the week.
• Potluck: Bring a slow cooker filled with warm cabbage soup to your next potluck or family gathering.

Special Equipment

• Large Soup Pot: A heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven works best for evenly cooking the soup.
• Ladle: For serving the soup easily.
• Sharp Knife: For chopping the vegetables evenly.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.

2. Can I use red cabbage instead of green cabbage?

Absolutely! Red cabbage works well and gives the soup a slightly sweeter flavor and vibrant color.

3. How do I make the soup thicker?

Add more potatoes or grains like rice or barley, or blend a portion of the soup and stir it back into the pot.

4. Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, frozen carrots, green beans, or peas can be added directly to the soup without thawing.

5. Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free broth and avoid adding grains like barley, this soup is naturally gluten-free.

6. Can I add meat to the soup?

Definitely! Brown ground beef, turkey, or sausage before adding it to the soup for a protein boost.

7. What can I use instead of potatoes?

You can substitute sweet potatoes, parsnips, or turnips for a slightly different flavor and texture.

8. Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes, simply use vegetable broth and avoid adding any dairy-based toppings.

Conclusion

Cozy Cabbage Soup is the perfect recipe for when you’re craving something warm, healthy, and comforting. With its rich flavors, hearty vegetables, and easy preparation, this soup is a versatile dish that can be customized to suit any palate or dietary preference. Whether you serve it as a light lunch, a hearty dinner, or a meal-prep staple, this cabbage soup will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen. Try it today and savor the warmth and comfort of a steaming bowl of Cozy Cabbage Soup!

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