This BEST Cabbage Soup recipe is perfect for cozy nights and healthy meals. Packed with fresh vegetables and herbs, it’s easy to make and low in carbs, making it suitable for various occasions. Whether you need a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting bowl of soup on a chilly day, this recipe stands out for its vibrant flavors and nourishing qualities.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Nutritious: Loaded with veggies, this soup is low in calories and high in fiber, promoting a healthy lifestyle.
- Versatile: Customize your soup by adding proteins or different vegetables to suit your taste.
- Comforting Flavor: The combination of herbs and spices creates a warm, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen.
- Budget-Friendly: Made with affordable ingredients, this cabbage soup is easy on the wallet.
Tools and Preparation
To prepare the BEST Cabbage Soup, you’ll need some essential tools. Using the right equipment can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large pot
- Wooden spoon
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Large pot: A spacious pot allows you to cook all ingredients evenly without overcrowding.
- Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware, ensuring your soup mixes well.
- Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables quicker and safer.
Ingredients
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion (diced)
– 1 large carrot (diced)
– 2 celery stalks (diced)
– 2 garlic cloves (minced)
– ½ teaspoon dried oregano
– ½ teaspoon dried basil
– ½ teaspoon salt
– ½ cabbage (chopped)
– 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes
– 4 to 6 cups vegetable broth (depending how thick or brothy you’d like it)
– 1 to 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– ¼ cup roughly chopped fresh parsley
– cracked black pepper (to taste)
How to Make BEST Cabbage Soup
Step 1: Cook the Vegetables
Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the diced onions, carrot, and celery. Cook for about 4 to 5 minutes until they start to soften.
Step 2: Add the Aromatics
Add the minced garlic along with dried oregano, dried basil, and salt. Stir everything together for another minute to release the fragrance of the spices.
Step 3: Sweat the Cabbage
Add the chopped cabbage to the pot. Let it sweat for about 5 minutes while stirring frequently to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Let It Simmer
Pour in the vegetable broth and canned diced tomatoes. Allow the mixture to simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes or until the vegetables reach your desired softness.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Remove the pot from heat. Stir in lemon juice, fresh parsley, and cracked black pepper according to taste. Give it one last stir before serving hot.
Enjoy your comforting bowl of BEST Cabbage Soup!
How to Serve BEST Cabbage Soup
Serving the BEST Cabbage Soup can elevate your meal experience. This soup is versatile and pairs well with a variety of sides and toppings that enhance its flavors.
Add Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Cilantro: Sprinkle fresh cilantro on top for a burst of flavor.
- Chives: Add finely chopped chives for a mild onion taste.
Top with Cheese
- Grated Parmesan: A sprinkle of parmesan gives a savory touch.
- Feta Crumbles: Feta adds creaminess and tang to each bite.
Include Protein
- Shredded Chicken: Toss in some shredded chicken for added protein.
- Tofu Cubes: For a vegetarian option, add cubed tofu for extra texture.
Serve with Bread
- Crusty Baguette: Pair with a warm, crusty baguette for dipping.
- Garlic Bread: The flavors of garlic bread complement the soup perfectly.
How to Perfect BEST Cabbage Soup
To make the BEST Cabbage Soup, keep these tips in mind. They will help you achieve the best flavor and texture.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables will enhance the taste and nutritional value of your soup.
- Adjust Broth Thickness: Choose 4 cups for a thicker soup or 6 cups for a brothier version based on your preference.
- Add Acidity Last: Adding lemon juice at the end brightens up the flavors without cooking off its freshness.
- Experiment with Spices: Feel free to adjust spices like thyme or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
Best Side Dishes for BEST Cabbage Soup
Pairing your BEST Cabbage Soup with the right side dishes can create a complete meal. Here are some delightful options:
- Garlic Bread: A crunchy and buttery accompaniment perfect for dipping.
- Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing complements the soup’s warmth.
- Quinoa Bowl: A nutritious grain bowl filled with veggies adds heartiness to your meal.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots and bell peppers provide sweetness and color.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Melty cheese between toasted bread makes for a comforting pairing.
- Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers can add substance alongside the light soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making the BEST Cabbage Soup, it’s easy to make some common mistakes that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish. Here are a few pitfalls to avoid:
- Skipping the aromatics: Failing to add garlic and spices early on can lead to bland soup. Always sauté these ingredients to develop their flavors.
- Not chopping vegetables evenly: Large or unevenly cut veggies will cook at different rates, resulting in some being undercooked while others may turn mushy. Aim for uniform sizes for even cooking.
- Ignoring broth quality: Using low-quality vegetable broth can make your soup taste flat. Opt for a good-quality broth or make your own for the best flavor.
- Overcooking cabbage: Cooking cabbage for too long can cause it to lose its texture and become overly soft. Aim for a tender-crisp finish by monitoring cooking times closely.
- Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Don’t forget to taste your soup before serving! Adjust salt, pepper, and acidity as needed to enhance flavors.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- The BEST Cabbage Soup will keep well for 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing BEST Cabbage Soup
- Freeze in airtight containers or freezer bags.
- This soup can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating BEST Cabbage Soup
- Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the soup in an oven-safe dish. Cover with foil and heat for about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl and cover loosely. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Pour the soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about the BEST Cabbage Soup that might help you while preparing this delicious recipe.
Can I customize the BEST Cabbage Soup?
Yes! You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or include meat such as sausage or chicken for extra protein.
Is this cabbage soup healthy?
Absolutely! The BEST Cabbage Soup is low in calories and packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables, making it a wholesome choice.
How do I make it vegan?
To keep this recipe vegan, ensure you use vegetable broth and skip any animal-based ingredients.
Can I use frozen cabbage?
Yes! Frozen cabbage can be used in this recipe. Just ensure it’s thawed and drained before adding it to the pot.
Final Thoughts
The BEST Cabbage Soup is not only cozy and comforting but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins. It’s perfect for meal prep and makes a delightful dish any day of the week. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a warm bowl of goodness!
BEST Cabbage Soup
Indulge in the comforting warmth of the BEST Cabbage Soup, a delightful dish that’s both nourishing and easy to prepare. This hearty soup is brimming with fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, making it a perfect choice for cozy nights or quick weeknight dinners. With its vibrant flavors and low-carb profile, it’s an excellent option for anyone seeking a healthy meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. Whether served as a main dish or paired with your favorite sides, this cabbage soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 onion (diced)
- 1 large carrot (diced)
- 2 celery stalks (diced)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- ½ teaspoon dried oregano
- ½ teaspoon dried basil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ cabbage (chopped)
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14 ounces)
- 4 to 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 to 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- ¼ cup fresh parsley (chopped)
- Cracked black pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium-high heat, heat olive oil. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery; cook for about 4–5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic, oregano, basil, and salt; cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add chopped cabbage and sweat for about 5 minutes while stirring frequently.
- Pour in vegetable broth and canned tomatoes; let simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes until veggies reach desired softness.
- Remove from heat and stir in lemon juice, parsley, and black pepper before serving hot.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 120
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
