Simple Homemade Cabbage Soup Recipe

If you’ve been on the hunt for a comforting, healthy, and incredibly easy recipe to add to your weeknight rotation, you’re going to love this Simple Homemade Cabbage Soup Recipe. It’s the perfect bowl of warmth packed with vibrant veggies, hearty cabbage, and a flavorful broth that just melts in your mouth. This soup is not only simple to make but also wonderfully satisfying, making it an instant favorite whether you’re after a light lunch or a cozy dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the ingredients right is the first step toward an unforgettable bowl of cabbage soup. These simple, fresh ingredients each bring their own magic — the cabbage adds crunch and volume, carrots bring a subtle sweetness, and the herbs and garlic give depth and aroma to the broth.

• 1 medium head Cabbage: Chopped into bite-sized pieces for easy eating and hearty texture.
• 2 large Carrots: Diced to add a hint of natural sweetness and vibrant color.
• 1 large Onion: Chopped finely to build a flavorful base for the soup.
• 2 stalks Celery: Diced for a mild crunch and earthiness.
• 3 cloves Garlic: Minced to infuse the soup with rich, aromatic depth.
• 6 cups Vegetable Broth: Low-sodium to let the natural flavors shine through and keep it heart-healthy.
• 1 14-ounce can Diced Tomatoes: Undrained to bring slight acidity and bright notes to the soup.
• 2 leaves Bay Leaves: Used to add subtle herbal warmth during simmering.
• 1 tablespoon Italian Seasoning: A medley of herbs that elevate the soup’s flavor profile beautifully.
• Salt: To season and balance all the ingredients.
• Pepper: Freshly ground for the perfect hint of spice.
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil: For sautéing the veggies and giving them a lovely richness.

How to Make Simple Homemade Cabbage Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prep Your Veggies

Before the magic starts, prepare all your vegetables. Chop the cabbage into manageable bite-sized pieces, dice the carrots and celery evenly, and finely chop the onion and garlic. Having everything ready makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté them for 3 to 4 minutes until they turn translucent and soft. This step sets the flavor foundation by bringing out the onion’s natural sweetness.

Step 3: Add Garlic

Next, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for another 1 to 2 minutes. You want to release that incredible garlic aroma without burning it — this builds wonderful depth early on.

Step 4: Cook the Carrots and Celery

Now add the diced carrots and celery. Cook them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, so they soften just enough to balance their fresh crunch with tender warmth.

Step 5: Wilt the Cabbage

Stir in the chopped cabbage, allowing it to wilt gently for 4 to 5 minutes. This softens the crunch while keeping it substantial enough to stand out in every spoonful.

Step 6: Add Broth and Tomatoes

Pour in the vegetable broth along with the entire can of diced tomatoes, undrained. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. This step is key to melding all the flavors wonderfully together.

Step 7: Season with Herbs

Drop in the bay leaves and sprinkle the Italian seasoning over the soup. Stir it all together to distribute those fragrant herbs evenly throughout the pot.

Step 8: Simmer the Soup

Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This slow simmer allows all the flavors to deepen and the cabbage to become tender but not mushy.

Step 9: Final Seasoning

Before serving, taste your soup and season with salt and freshly ground pepper to your liking. Remove the bay leaves so they don’t overpower the final flavor.

Step 10: Enjoy the Warmth

Ladle the soup into bowls and serve it hot. If you want to add a little extra fresh flair, sprinkle some chopped herbs on top — it complements the rustic flavors beautifully.

How to Serve Simple Homemade Cabbage Soup Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like parsley or dill add a bright pop of color and fragrance that pairs perfectly with the hearty cabbage base. A squeeze of lemon juice can also add a refreshing zing if you prefer a little brightness on your palate.

Side Dishes

This soup shines on its own, but pairing it with warm crusty bread or a soft dinner roll takes the experience to the next level. A simple green salad on the side can add some crisp contrast to the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the soup in rustic bread bowls for a charming presentation that’s both fun and practical. Top with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a dollop of sour cream for a creamy finish that everyone will love.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Simple Homemade Cabbage Soup Recipe keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors even deepen overnight, making it perfect for quick meals on busy days.

Freezing

This soup freezes exceptionally well. Just let it cool completely, then transfer into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags. It will keep for up to 3 months, allowing you to enjoy this healthy delight anytime.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the soup gently on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. You might need to add a splash of vegetable broth or water if it thickens too much. Avoid boiling once reheated to preserve the fresh flavors.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cabbage?

Absolutely! Green cabbage works wonderfully, but you can also try Napa cabbage or Savoy for a different texture and taste. Just keep an eye on cooking time as some varieties cook faster.

Is this soup vegetarian or vegan?

Yes, this Simple Homemade Cabbage Soup Recipe is completely vegan and vegetarian, especially if you use a vegetable broth. It’s a nutritious option that fits many dietary preferences.

Can I add protein to this soup?

Definitely. Adding cooked beans, lentils, or even shredded chicken can make this soup more filling. Just add them toward the end of cooking or when reheating.

How spicy is this cabbage soup?

This recipe is mild by default, highlighting fresh and herbal flavors. You can always add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you want some heat.

What’s the best way to chop the cabbage?

Remove the tough core, then chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces. This ensures easy eating and even cooking throughout the soup.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Simple Homemade Cabbage Soup Recipe enough for anyone looking for a straightforward, nourishing, and cozy dish to whip up quickly. It’s a perfect way to warm up, get creative with simple ingredients, and share a bowl of goodness. Give it a try and watch it become a staple in your recipe collection!

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