Ingredients: Simple and Healthy
Here’s what you’ll need to make a delicious and wholesome cabbage soup:
- Cabbage: 1 small to medium head of cabbage, chopped (green or savoy cabbage works well).
- Carrots: 2-3 medium carrots, sliced or diced for sweetness and texture.
- Celery: 2-3 stalks, chopped, for an earthy flavor and crunch.
- Onion: 1 large onion, diced, for sweetness and depth.
- Garlic: 3-4 cloves, minced, for a savory boost.
- Tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced or crushed tomatoes for a rich, slightly tangy flavor.
- Vegetable or Chicken Broth: 6 cups to create the base of the soup.
- Bell Pepper: 1 bell pepper, diced, for color and flavor.
- Green Beans: 1 cup of fresh or frozen green beans (optional) for added fiber and texture.
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon for mild smokiness.
- Italian Seasoning: 1-2 teaspoons for a blend of herbs.
- Bay Leaves: 2 bay leaves to add herbal depth.
- Salt and Pepper: To taste, for seasoning.
- Olive Oil: 1-2 tablespoons for sautéing the vegetables.
- Optional Add-Ins: Fresh herbs like parsley, lemon juice, or red pepper flakes for garnish and extra flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Cabbage Soup
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the Broth and Seasonings:
- Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, and stir in the diced or crushed tomatoes, diced bell pepper, green beans (if using), paprika, Italian seasoning, and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add the Cabbage:
- Stir in the chopped cabbage and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for about 20-30 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender but not mushy.
- Season and Serve:
- Once the vegetables are cooked to your liking, remove the bay leaves and season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. If you’d like a touch of brightness, add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or garnish with chopped parsley.
- Serve Hot:
- Ladle the cabbage soup into bowls and serve with crusty bread or crackers for a satisfying, healthy meal.
Variations and Tips
- Add Protein: You can add cooked chicken, turkey, sausage, or ground beef for a heartier soup. Just brown the meat before adding it to the soup.
- Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.
- Low-Carb Option: This soup is naturally low in carbohydrates, but you can also swap out starchy vegetables like potatoes for more non-starchy options like zucchini or spinach.
- Make It Creamy: For a creamier version, stir in a little coconut milk or cream at the end of cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Cabbage soup is a versatile dish that pairs well with:
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a warm slice of whole-grain or sourdough bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
- Salad: Pair the soup with a light green salad with vinaigrette for a balanced meal.
- Grated Parmesan: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top for added richness.
Health Benefits of Cabbage Soup
Cabbage is rich in vitamins C and K, which are essential for immune health and bone strength. It’s also high in fiber, promoting good digestion and helping with weight management. The addition of other vegetables, like carrots, celery, and green beans, makes this soup packed with antioxidants and essential nutrients, making it a great dish to include in any healthy eating plan.
Conclusion: A Simple and Nourishing Soup
Cabbage Soup is a light yet hearty meal that’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and packed with nutritious ingredients. Whether you’re enjoying it as part of a healthy lifestyle, looking for a detoxifying meal, or just want something warm and comforting, cabbage soup delivers. It’s perfect for meal prep, easy to freeze, and can be adapted to suit any dietary preference. Enjoy a bowl of this nourishing soup and feel great about what you’re eating!
