This cabbage soup is a light, nourishing, and budget-friendly dish packed with vegetables and natural flavor. It’s warm, comforting, and perfect as a healthy meal option when you want something simple, filling, and low in calories.
Prep Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35–40 minutes
- Total Time: About 1 hour
- Servings: 6
Equipment
- Large soup pot
- Knife and cutting board
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle
Ingredients
- 1/2 head green cabbage, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tbsp lemon juice (optional, for freshness)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Ingredient Notes
- Cabbage gives the soup its bulk and mild sweetness
- Tomatoes add acidity and richness
- Broth builds the savory base flavor
- Herbs like thyme and bay leaf enhance aroma
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–6 minutes until slightly softened. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
Step 2: Add Base Ingredients
Stir in diced tomatoes, broth, cabbage, paprika, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Simmer
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30–35 minutes until vegetables are tender.
Step 4: Finish
Remove bay leaf. Add lemon juice if desired for brightness.
Step 5: Serve
Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving Approx.)
- Calories: 120
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 3g
- Protein: 4g
- Fiber: 6g
Tips
- Chop cabbage evenly so it cooks consistently
- Add chili flakes for a spicy version
- Use homemade broth for deeper flavor
- Don’t overcook cabbage to keep slight texture
Variations
Beef Cabbage Soup
Add cooked ground beef for a heartier version.
Spicy Detox Version
Add cayenne pepper and extra garlic.
Low-Carb Version
Reduce carrots and tomatoes slightly.
Creamy Version
Add a splash of cream or coconut milk at the end.
Final Thoughts
This cabbage soup is simple, wholesome, and incredibly satisfying. It’s perfect for meal prep, light dinners, or when you want a healthy bowl of comfort without heavy ingredients.
