Healthy and Delicious Cabbage Soup Recipe
Cabbage soup is a simple, nutritious, and hearty dish that’s full of flavor. Packed with vegetables, this soup is not only comforting but also a great option for those looking for a low-calorie, nutrient-rich meal. Cabbage itself is loaded with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, making it a perfect base for a healthy soup. This recipe is easy to make, customizable, and great for meal prepping. Whether you’re trying to eat healthier or just enjoy a comforting bowl of soup, cabbage soup is an excellent choice.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of cabbage (green or purple), chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with their juice)
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1-2 teaspoons apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (optional, for added brightness)
- 1 cup green beans or other favorite vegetables (optional, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach)
Instructions:
- Prepare the vegetables:
Start by chopping your cabbage into bite-sized pieces. You can either remove the core and slice the cabbage or use a food processor for quicker prep. Peel and dice the carrots, chop the celery, and finely mince the garlic. These vegetables will give the soup its hearty texture. - Sauté the aromatics:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes until they start to soften and the onion becomes translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning. - Add the cabbage and seasonings:
Once the aromatics are cooked, add the chopped cabbage to the pot. Stir it all together for a few minutes to combine. Sprinkle in the dried thyme, oregano, and basil, as well as the bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste. - Add the liquids:
Pour in the vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a non-vegetarian version) and the canned diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir to combine and bring the soup to a boil. - Simmer the soup:
Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low. Let the soup simmer uncovered for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. During this time, the cabbage will soften and the flavors will meld together. - Add additional vegetables (optional):
If you like, you can add extra vegetables to the soup for more flavor and nutrients. For example, adding green beans, zucchini, or bell peppers will make the soup even heartier. Simply chop the additional vegetables and stir them in after about 20 minutes of simmering. - Taste and adjust the seasoning:
After the soup has simmered and the vegetables are tender, taste it and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or herbs depending on your taste. A splash of apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice can really brighten up the soup and give it a nice tang. - Serve and enjoy:
Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the cabbage soup into bowls and serve hot. You can enjoy it as is or pair it with a slice of whole-grain bread for a more filling meal. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired, or even a dollop of low-fat sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess.
Tips:
- Protein Add-ins: You can make this soup more filling by adding lean proteins like chicken breast, ground turkey, or beans. If using chicken, you can either cook it separately and add it at the end or cook it directly in the soup.
- Spices: Feel free to experiment with different spices like cumin, smoked paprika, or turmeric for added flavor. If you like heat, you can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Vegetable Variations: Cabbage soup is incredibly versatile. You can use whatever vegetables you have on hand. Common additions include potatoes, bell peppers, or even spinach at the end for some extra greens.
- Make It Vegan: If you want a completely plant-based version, simply use vegetable broth and skip any non-vegan toppings.
Health Benefits of Cabbage Soup:
Cabbage soup is not only filling but also packed with nutrients. Cabbage itself is low in calories but high in dietary fiber, which promotes digestive health and helps keep you full for longer. It is also a great source of vitamin C, an important antioxidant that helps boost immunity and promote skin health.
The inclusion of other vegetables like carrots, celery, and tomatoes boosts the soup’s vitamin A, potassium, and folate content, all of which support heart health, good vision, and overall well-being. Additionally, the soup is a low-fat option, especially when made with vegetable broth, making it perfect for weight loss or maintenance.
Conclusion:
Cabbage soup is an incredibly healthy and versatile dish. It’s packed with flavor, fiber, and essential nutrients, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to eat more vegetables or improve their diet. Whether you’re making it for a light meal, a detox, or just to enjoy the taste of fresh, wholesome ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen. It’s easy to make, customizable, and delicious — all the things you need for a satisfying and nutritious meal!