Cabbage Soup
A light yet filling vegetable soup packed with tender cabbage, carrots, and celery in a savory tomato broth. It's a comforting, healthy one-pot meal that's perfect for a light lunch or a cozy dinner.
For 6 servings
5 steps. 35 minutes total.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Sauté the aromatics
- b.Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- c.Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 6-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened and the onion is translucent.
- d.Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Wilt the cabbage
- b.Add the chopped cabbage to the pot. Stir well to combine with the other vegetables.
- c.Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cabbage begins to wilt and reduce in volume.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Add liquids and seasonings
- b.Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (with their juice) and the vegetable broth.
- c.Add the dried thyme, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together to combine.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Simmer the soup
- b.Increase the heat to bring the soup to a boil.
- c.Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender to your liking.
- 5
Step 5
- a.Final adjustments and serving
- b.Remove the pot from the heat and discard the bay leaf.
- c.Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- d.Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
What to keep in mind.
5 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, don't rush sautéing the onion, carrots, and celery. This step, known as building a mirepoix, creates a deep, savory base for the soup.
- 2Use low-sodium broth to control the final saltiness of the dish. You can always add more salt, but you can't take it away.
- 3To brighten the flavors, squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice or a splash of apple cider vinegar into the soup just before serving.
- 4The soup's flavor deepens and improves overnight, making it excellent for leftovers.
- 5This soup freezes beautifully. Allow it to cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Adapt it for your goals.
Hearty Version
To make the soup more filling, add a can of rinsed and drained cannellini beans, chickpeas, or 1 cup of cooked quinoa during the last 10 minutes of simmering.
Spicy KickSpicy Kick
Add 1/4 to 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes along with the garlic for a gentle, warming heat.
Smoky FlavorSmoky Flavor
For a smoky twist, add 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika with the other seasonings. You can also add sliced, pre-cooked sausage like kielbasa for a non-vegetarian option.
Herbaceous NotesHerbaceous Notes
Incorporate other herbs like dried oregano or a sprig of fresh rosemary along with the thyme for a more complex herbal profile.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Excellent for Weight Management
This soup is very low in calories and fat but high in fiber and water content, which helps you feel full and satisfied, making it a great tool for weight management.
Rich in Nutrients
Loaded with vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and tomatoes, this soup is a good source of Vitamin C, Vitamin K, potassium, and antioxidants that support overall health.
Supports Digestive Health
The high fiber content from the cabbage and other vegetables promotes regular bowel movements and supports a healthy gut microbiome.
Boosts Hydration
With a broth base and high-water-content vegetables, this soup is an excellent way to contribute to your daily fluid intake, which is crucial for all bodily functions.
Frequently asked questions
Each 1.75-cup serving of this cabbage soup contains approximately 110 calories, making it a very light and low-calorie meal option.