Cabbage soup might not seem flashy, but don’t underestimate it! This hearty and comforting dish is a true gem in the world of healthy eating. Not only is it packed with vitamins and nutrients, but it’s also incredibly simple to prepare, budget-friendly, and versatile enough to fit into various diets. Whether you’re looking to eat clean, warm up on a chilly day, or add more veggies to your routine, cabbage soup is a winner.
Now, let's get to business. Here's a step-by-step guide to making a satisfying pot of cabbage soup that'll have you coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
To make a classic cabbage soup, you'll need:
- 1 small green cabbage, finely chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (or butter)
- Optional garnish: fresh parsley, lemon wedges
These ingredients are super flexible! Feel free to adapt depending on what’s in your fridge.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep Your Ingredients:
Before cooking, take some time to chop all your veggies and have everything ready to go. This will make the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Heat the olive oil (or butter) in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the onion turns translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the Cabbage and Spices:
Toss in the chopped cabbage and give it a good stir. Add the thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2–3 minutes, letting the cabbage soften slightly.
4. Pour in the Liquid:
Add the broth and diced tomatoes (including their juice) to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low-medium and cover the pot.
5. Simmer to Perfection:
Allow the soup to simmer for 25–30 minutes. This gives all the ingredients time to meld together, creating a rich, flavorful broth. Stir occasionally to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot.
6. Taste and Adjust:
Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning. If it needs more salt, pepper, or a pinch of your favorite spice, go ahead and add it!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the steaming soup into bowls. Sprinkle chopped parsley on top for a fresh kick, and serve with a slice of crusty bread or a wedge of lemon for a tangy twist.
Tips for the Best Cabbage Soup
- Use fresh ingredients for the most vibrant flavor. While canned tomatoes work well, fresh tomatoes can add an extra layer of sweetness.
- Don't skip the spices. Thyme and paprika bring depth to the soup, but you can also experiment with bay leaves or Italian seasoning.
- Make it ahead of time. This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to blend.
Serving Suggestions and Variations
- Protein Boost: Add cooked, shredded chicken or a can of drained beans (like white beans or chickpeas) for extra protein.
- Spicy Kick: Stir in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce while cooking.
- Creamy Version: Blend half of the soup for a thick, creamy texture. Then mix it back into the pot for a velvety finish.
- Low-Carb Option: Skip the diced tomatoes and add more broth, keeping things simple and light.
Pair your cabbage soup with a fresh side salad, a slice of whole-grain bread, or even sprinkle some shredded cheese on top. The beauty of cabbage soup is that it adapts to whatever you’re craving.
Cabbage soup isn’t just food; it’s comfort in a bowl. Once you’ve mastered this easy recipe, you’ll want to make it part of your regular meal rotation. Whether you’re cooking for your family or treating yourself to a warm, nutritious dish, cabbage soup is always a good idea. Happy cooking!
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