Cabbage Soup Guide has been my go-to for a quick, healthy, and incredibly satisfying meal, especially on those days when I need something nourishing without a lot of fuss. I remember my mom making a giant pot of this soup every fall; the aroma of simmering vegetables and savory broth would fill our entire house, promising a comforting dinner. This isn’t just any soup; it’s a versatile base that’s perfect for a light lunch or a hearty dinner. You’ll love how easy this easy cabbage soup recipe is to whip up. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Cabbage Soup Guide

This isn’t just another soup recipe; it’s a complete Cabbage Soup Guide designed to make your life easier and healthier. You’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again because it’s:

Incredibly nutritious, packed with vitamins and fiber.
Super easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights.
A fantastic option for weight loss, keeping you full and satisfied.
Wonderfully versatile; you can customize it with your favorite veggies.
A low calorie delight that won’t leave you feeling deprived.
Hearty enough to be a satisfying meal on its own.
A beginner’s cabbage soup dream, with simple steps.
Perfect for meal prepping, making healthy eating effortless.

Cabbage Soup Ingredients Guide

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this wonderful easy cabbage soup recipe. I’ve found that using fresh, good-quality produce makes all the difference in the final flavor. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 large head of green cabbage, about 2 pounds, cored and thinly sliced – this is the star, providing bulk and fiber.
1 large onion, chopped – it adds a sweet, savory base.
2 carrots, peeled and chopped – for a touch of sweetness and color.
2 celery stalks, chopped – bringing that classic aromatic flavor.
4 cloves garlic, minced – essential for depth and fragrance.
1 tablespoon olive oil – used to sauté the vegetables and build flavor.
1 teaspoon dried thyme – adds an earthy, slightly minty note.
1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram – for a subtle, sweet, and savory herbal taste.
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – if you like a little heat!
8 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth) – the liquid foundation of our soup; use a low-sodium version if you’re watching your sodium intake.
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained – they add acidity and body.
1 (15 ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained – for added protein and heartiness, making this a truly nutritious cabbage soup.
1 cup cooked barley or other grain (optional) – makes the soup even more filling.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste – to perfectly season your soup.
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley, for garnish (optional) – adds a burst of freshness at the end.
1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional) – brightens all the flavors.

Cabbage Soup Guide: 1 Amazing, Healthy Meal - Cabbage Soup Guide - additional detail

How to Make Cabbage Soup

Making this delicious and hearty cabbage soup is a simple process that yields incredibly flavorful results. I love how the kitchen fills with the aroma of sautéing vegetables and simmering broth! Follow these easy steps for a perfect pot every time.

Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven heats, core and thinly slice the large head of cabbage. Chop your onion, carrots, and celery into nice, bite-sized pieces, about 1/2-inch. Mince the garlic cloves finely.
Step 2: Grab a large pot or Dutch oven. Heat the 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook, stirring occasionally, until these vegetables begin to soften, which usually takes about 5 to 7 minutes. You’ll notice them becoming fragrant.
Step 3: Toss in the minced garlic and cook for just 1 minute more until it’s wonderfully aromatic. Be careful not to burn it! Stir in the 1 teaspoon dried thyme, 1/2 teaspoon dried marjoram, and the optional 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes. Cook for another minute, letting the herbs release their fragrance.
Step 4: Add the thinly sliced cabbage to the pot. Don’t worry if it looks like a lot; it will cook down significantly. Pour in the 8 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth) and the 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, including their juices.
Step 5: Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and let it simmer. You’ll want to let it cook for at least 30 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender. For an even richer flavor, feel free to let it simmer longer – the longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld. This is key to a truly nutritious cabbage soup.
Step 6: After the initial simmering time, stir in the rinsed and drained 1 (15 ounce) can cannellini beans. If you’re adding cooked barley or another grain for extra heartiness, add that now too. Simmer for another 15 to 20 minutes, allowing everything to heat through and the flavors to deepen.
Step 7: Taste your soup and season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. This step is crucial for bringing out all the delicious flavors.
Step 8: Remove the pot from the heat. If the soup seems a bit too thick for your liking, you can thin it out with a little more broth. Stir in the optional 1 tablespoon lemon juice to brighten everything up.
Step 9: Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, for a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy this simple, satisfying bowl of goodness!

Pro Tips for the Best Cabbage Soup

Making this simple cabbage soup is already straightforward, but a few little tricks can elevate it from good to absolutely amazing. I’ve learned these over the years, and they really make a difference in texture and flavor. Try them out for your next pot!

Don’t rush the simmering process; longer simmering truly develops the flavors.
Always taste and adjust seasoning at the end – salt and pepper are key!
For a richer broth, consider using a good quality homemade vegetable stock.
Feel free to add a bay leaf while simmering for an extra layer of aromatic depth.

What’s the secret to perfect Cabbage Soup?

The real secret to a perfect nutritious cabbage soup lies in allowing the vegetables to simmer long enough for their flavors to meld. Don’t be afraid to let it go beyond the minimum 30 minutes; a slow simmer is where the magic happens.

Can I make Cabbage Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This cabbage soup meal prep friendly. In fact, it tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had more time to mingle. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For more tips on meal preparation, check out this guide.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cabbage Soup?

A common pitfall is overcooking the cabbage, making it mushy. Aim for tender but still slightly crisp. Also, be sure to season generously at the end; bland soup is no fun! For more on cooking basics, you might find this helpful.

Best Ways to Serve Cabbage Soup

This versatile Cabbage Soup Guide is wonderful on its own, but I love pairing it with a few simple sides to make it a complete meal. It’s the perfect canvas for so many delicious accompaniments. Here are a few of my favorite ways to serve this delightful soup:

A crusty piece of whole-grain bread or a warm baguette is fantastic for dipping into the savory broth.
A simple side salad with a light vinaigrette offers a fresh contrast to the hearty soup.
For an extra boost of protein and heartiness, consider serving it with grilled cheese sandwiches – a classic comfort food pairing!

Nutrition Facts for Cabbage Soup Guide

This nutritious cabbage soup is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for something light yet satisfying. The numbers below are approximate for a standard serving and can vary depending on the specific ingredients you use, especially the broth and any optional additions. For more information on the nutritional benefits of vegetables, see this resource.

Calories: Approx. 150-200 (varies with additions)
Fat: Approx. 5g
Saturated Fat: Approx. 1g
Protein: Approx. 5g
Carbohydrates: Approx. 25g
Fiber: Approx. 7g
Sugar: Approx. 6g
Sodium: Approx. 600mg (varies with broth)

Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

How to Store and Reheat Cabbage Soup

One of the best things about this easy cabbage soup recipe is how well it stores, making it perfect for cabbage soup meal prep. I love knowing I have a healthy meal ready to go! After cooking, let the soup cool completely on the counter for about an hour. This is crucial for food safety and helps prevent condensation if you’re using airtight containers. For more on food safety, consult these guidelines.

Once cooled, ladle the soup into individual portions or a larger container. For refrigeration, store in airtight containers in your fridge for up to 3 to 4 days. It actually tastes even better the next day! If you want to store it for longer, freezing is your best bet. Transfer the cooled soup into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, and it will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, the best way to reheat is gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave individual servings. Just be sure to thaw frozen soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cabbage Soup

Can I add other vegetables to this Cabbage Soup Guide?

Absolutely! This vegetable cabbage soup guide is incredibly forgiving. Feel free to toss in extra veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, mushrooms, or even potatoes. Just add them during the simmering process based on their cooking time to ensure they’re tender but not mushy.

Is Cabbage Soup good for weight loss?

Yes, this cabbage soup for weight loss guide highlights its benefits. It’s naturally low in calories and high in fiber, which helps you feel full and satisfied, making it an excellent choice for managing your weight. The nutrient density means you’re getting a lot of goodness without the extra calories. For more on healthy eating for weight management, see this article.

What makes this Cabbage Soup so healthy?

This healthy cabbage soup guide focuses on wholesome ingredients. Cabbage is packed with vitamins and antioxidants, while the broth and other vegetables provide essential nutrients and hydration. The beans and optional grains add fiber and protein, making it a truly nutritious cabbage soup that supports overall well-being.

How long does this Cabbage Soup last?

This simple cabbage soup stores beautifully. In the refrigerator, it will keep well in an airtight container for about 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, it freezes perfectly for up to 3 months, making it ideal for future meals.

Cabbage Soup Variations You Can Try

This Cabbage Soup Guide is a fantastic starting point, but the beauty of this recipe is its incredible versatility. I love experimenting with different additions to keep things exciting! Here are a few of my favorite cabbage soup variations to inspire your cooking:

Spicy Kick: For a fiery twist, add an extra pinch of red pepper flakes, a diced jalapeño along with the onions, or a swirl of sriracha or hot sauce to your bowl before serving. This variation is perfect if you love bold flavors.
Creamy Delight: Want a richer, more decadent soup? Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk during the last 10 minutes of simmering. This transforms it into a comforting, velvety dish that’s still surprisingly light.
Hearty Italian-Inspired: Add Italian sausage (browned and drained), a can of cannellini beans, and a pinch of Italian seasoning. This version feels like a complete meal and is wonderfully satisfying.
Lemon-Herb Freshness: For a brighter, lighter soup, focus on fresh herbs like parsley, dill, and chives added at the end. A generous squeeze of fresh lemon juice really makes all the flavors pop.