This Healthy Cabbage Soup is a warm bowl of goodness, filled with crunchy cabbage, fresh veggies, and tasty broth. Perfect for a cozy meal that makes you feel good inside!
Honestly, I love how simple it is to whip this soup up. It’s like a hug in a bowl! Plus, you can enjoy it anytime—healthy and delicious!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Onion: Diced onion adds sweetness and depth. Yellow onions are the most common choice, but feel free to use red onions for a slightly milder flavor or shallots for a more delicate taste.
Carrots: Carrots give a nice crunch and sweetness. If you’re out of carrots, parsnips or bell peppers can work as substitutes, adding a different flavor while still keeping the dish healthy.
Cabbage: Green cabbage forms the base of this soup. If cabbage isn’t available, kale or Swiss chard can be great alternatives, although they will change the texture and flavor a bit.
Diced Tomatoes: They add acidity and a vibrant color. If fresh tomatoes are in season, you can chop them up instead. For a spicier kick, consider using diced tomatoes with green chilies.
White Beans: These provide protein and creaminess. If you need a faster option, canned chickpeas or lentils work well too, just adjust the cooking time since they may need less time to heat through.
How Do I Get the Perfect Flavor Base for My Soup?
The key to a delicious soup lies in building a strong flavor base. Start by sautéing your aromatics—onions, carrots, and celery—in olive oil until they soften. This step enhances their natural sweetness and lays the ground for your soup. Remember not to rush!
- Use medium heat and let the veggies cook for about 5-7 minutes.
- Add garlic last to avoid burning; just a minute is enough to release its wonderful aroma.
Ensuring you season as you go can make a big difference. Add the salt and pepper during the sautéing process to layer in flavor. Finally, adjust at the end for a perfect balance!
How to Make Healthy Cabbage Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetables:
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small head of green cabbage, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
- 1 cup green beans, chopped (fresh or frozen)
Broth and Beans:
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
Herbs and Seasoning:
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Cooking:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This healthy cabbage soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and 30-35 minutes to cook. So, in total, you’re looking at roughly 45 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a warm and cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, stirring them together. Sauté these veggies for about 5-7 minutes until they become soft and fragrant.
2. Add Garlic:
Now, add the minced garlic to the pot. Cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to keep the garlic from burning. You want that lovely garlic aroma wafting through your kitchen!
3. Combine Cabbage and Liquids:
Add the chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes (with all their juicy goodness), and vegetable broth into the pot. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil. Get excited; it’s almost soup time!
4. Simmer and Season:
Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Stir in the white beans, green beans, thyme, oregano, bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer covered for about 25-30 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to mix and the cabbage to become nice and tender.
5. Final Touches:
After simmering, taste the soup and adjust the seasonings if needed. Don’t forget to take out the bay leaf before serving—nobody wants to chew on that!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your hot and delicious cabbage soup in bowls, garnished with fresh parsley if you like. Enjoy this hearty soup with a side of crusty bread for a complete meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Beans in This Soup?
Absolutely! You can substitute any canned beans you prefer, such as kidney beans, black beans, or chickpeas. Just make sure to rinse and drain them before adding to the soup to remove excess sodium.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian or Vegan?
This recipe is already vegetarian, but if you want to make it completely vegan, simply ensure your vegetable broth is labeled vegan. Additionally, check that your canned tomatoes don’t contain any animal products.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the soup in individual servings for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring to the freezer!
Can I Add Other Vegetables to the Soup?
Definitely! Feel free to add any other vegetables you have on hand, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or potatoes. Just chop them into similar-sized pieces and add them when you introduce the cabbage for even cooking.
