Cabbage Soup

There’s something incredibly heartwarming about a steaming bowl of Cabbage Soup. Whenever I find myself in need of comfort, I turn to this delightful dish that brings a sense of nostalgia and warmth to my kitchen. I remember the first time I tried it; it was a chilly winter evening, and my grandmother whipped up a batch that filled the house with a savory aroma. The combination of fresh vegetables simmering together created a symphony of flavors that lingered in my memory. Now, I love making my own Cabbage Soup, not just for its comforting taste but also for the joy it brings to those I share it with. It’s a simple dish that warms the soul, perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. Each spoonful is a reminder of home, a way to gather around the table and share stories over a bowl of something hearty.

Ingredients You’ll Need for Cabbage Soup

When making Cabbage Soup, the beauty lies in the simplicity and harmony of the ingredients. Each element plays a crucial role, coming together to create a flavorful and nourishing dish. The foundational vegetables provide a rich base, while herbs and spices enhance the flavor profile, making each bowl a comforting delight.

• 2 tablespoons olive oil – This healthy fat is perfect for sautéing, adding depth and richness to your soup.
• 1 yellow onion, chopped – The aromatic base that brings sweetness and flavor.
• 1 red bell pepper, seeds removed and chopped – Adds color and a slight sweetness to the mix.
• 2 carrots, diced – A source of natural sugars and a lovely texture.
• 2 celery ribs, diced – Contributes a crunchy texture and enhances the overall flavor.
• 4 garlic cloves, minced – Offers a robust flavor that enriches the soup.
• 1 bay leaf – A key flavoring agent that adds depth during cooking.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme – Provides a warm, earthy flavor that complements the vegetables.
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil – Adds a hint of sweetness and aromatic quality.
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano – Brings a Mediterranean flair to the dish.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt – Essential for enhancing all the flavors.
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a subtle heat to balance the flavors.
• 1/2 cabbage, chopped (about 5 cups) – The star of the dish, providing nourishment and a hearty texture.
• 28 ounces diced fire roasted tomatoes – Adds acidity and a smoky flavor that elevates the soup.
• 5 cups vegetable broth – The liquid foundation that brings everything together.
• 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice – A splash of acidity to brighten up the flavors.
• Chopped fresh parsley, for garnish – Adds freshness and a pop of color to serve.

The Process for Making Cabbage Soup

Making Cabbage Soup is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with scrumptious aromas. Each step is straightforward, allowing you to focus on the joy of cooking. Follow these detailed steps to create your own nourishing bowl of goodness.

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. This will take a couple of minutes. The oil should be hot but not smoking, perfect for sautéing the vegetables.
2. Add the chopped onion, red pepper, carrots, and celery to the pot. Stir occasionally, allowing the vegetables to soften, which should take about five minutes. You want them to become slightly translucent without browning.
3. Once the vegetables are soft, add the minced garlic, bay leaf, thyme, basil, oregano, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir together and cook for an additional minute, letting the herbs release their aromatic qualities.
4. Next, add the chopped cabbage. Stir it well, allowing it to wilt slightly before cooking further. This should take around five minutes. You want the cabbage to become tender and sweet.
5. After the cabbage has softened, pour in the diced fire roasted tomatoes along with the vegetable broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients. As the soup begins to heat, it will create a wonderful fusion of flavors.
6. Turn the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for about ten minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully while the vegetables become tender.
7. After simmering, stir in the lemon juice and taste the soup. Season with additional salt and pepper if necessary. The lemon juice will brighten the whole dish, adding a fresh zing.
8. Finally, remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of your homemade Cabbage Soup.

Ways to Customize

There are countless ways to customize your Cabbage Soup to suit your taste! Here are some fun ideas to get you started.

• Add Protein: You can include chicken or white beans to make the soup heartier and more filling.
• Spice it Up: For a kick, add a pinch of chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce while cooking. This will elevate the flavors and add a nice heat.
• Vegan Twist: Keep it vegan by ensuring all broth is vegetable-based and omitting any animal products. It will still be delicious!
• Herbs Galore: Feel free to experiment with different herbs such as cilantro or dill for a unique flavor profile.
• Extra Veggies: Throw in any leftover vegetables you have. Potatoes, zucchini, or even spinach work wonderfully.
• Nutty Flavor: Drizzle a bit of sesame oil before serving for a delightful nutty aroma.
• Serving Style: Serve with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a complete meal.

Pairing Suggestions for Cabbage Soup

Serving Cabbage Soup is all about creating a cozy atmosphere. Here are some fantastic pairing suggestions to elevate your dining experience:

• Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, crusty bread makes the perfect accompaniment to soak up every drop of soup. Consider sourdough or a rustic baguette for added flavor.
• Salad: Pair your soup with a refreshing garden salad, featuring crisp greens and a light vinaigrette. It adds a nice contrast to the warmth of the soup.
• Cheese Platter: A small cheese platter with cheddar or goat cheese can elevate your meal, offering a delightful flavor balance.
• Wine Pairing: If you enjoy wine, a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc can complement the soup beautifully.
• Perfect for Lunch: Serve Cabbage Soup as a filling and nutritious lunch option, ideal for meal prep.
• Winter Gatherings: This soup is perfect for winter gatherings or cozy family dinners, inviting warmth and comfort.
• Seasonal Touch: Incorporate seasonal ingredients like pumpkin or squash for a festive twist during fall.

FAQ

Conclusion

In summary, Cabbage Soup is a comforting and nourishing dish that everyone should try at least once. Its rich flavors and simple ingredients create a delightful experience that warms the soul. I encourage you to bring this recipe into your kitchen and share it with friends and family. You’ll find that it’s not just a meal, but a way to connect and create cherished memories.

Cabbage Soup

The ultimate comfort food, Cabbage Soup is hearty and nourishing. Packed with fresh vegetables and rich flavors, this soup is perfect for a cozy evening. It’s an easy weeknight dinner that brings warmth to your table. Make it tonight and savor each delicious bite!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Soups

Cuisine: American

Calories: 180

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 yellow onion chopped
• 1 red bell pepper seeds removed and chopped
• 2 carrots diced
• 2 celery ribs diced
• 4 garlic cloves minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cabbage chopped (about 5 cups)
• 28 ounces diced fire roasted tomatoes
• 5 cups vegetable broth
• 1-2 tablespoons lemon juice
• Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

• Saucepan
• Wooden Spoon
• Cutting Board
• Baking Sheet
• Chef's Knife

Method

 

1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. This will take a couple of minutes. The oil should be hot but not smoking, perfect for sautéing the vegetables.
2. Add the chopped onion, red pepper, carrots, and celery to the pot. Stir occasionally, allowing the vegetables to soften, which should take about five minutes. You want them to become slightly translucent without browning.
3. Once the vegetables are soft, add the minced garlic, bay leaf, thyme, basil, oregano, kosher salt, and black pepper. Stir together and cook for an additional minute, letting the herbs release their aromatic qualities.
4. Next, add the chopped cabbage. Stir it well, allowing it to wilt slightly before cooking further. This should take around five minutes. You want the cabbage to become tender and sweet.
5. After the cabbage has softened, pour in the diced fire roasted tomatoes along with the vegetable broth. Stir well to combine all ingredients. As the soup begins to heat, it will create a wonderful fusion of flavors.
6. Turn the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for about ten minutes. This will allow the flavors to meld beautifully while the vegetables become tender.
7. After simmering, stir in the lemon juice and taste the soup. Season with additional salt and pepper if necessary. The lemon juice will brighten the whole dish, adding a fresh zing.
8. Finally, remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of your homemade Cabbage Soup.

Notes

If you’re like me and enjoy leftovers, then this soup is perfect. The flavors deepen and improve as it sits, making day two’s serving just as delicious, if not more so, than when you first made it. It’s a dish that gets better with time, which is a rare find.

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Meet Chloe Bennett

I started this blog to document the rustic, comforting food I love to make. I’m the “Pine” of the group I’m all about hearty stews, wood-fired cooking, and cozy, one-pot meals. I brought my best friends on board to make this a shared journal of our adventures. I work closely with Maya to develop our main courses and do most of the writing for our posts.