Cabbage Soup Recipe

Cabbage Soup is one of those soul-warming classics that fills your kitchen with mouthwatering aromas and makes you want to ladle out a second bowl before you even finish the first. Packed with simple vegetables, creamy potatoes, and white beans, this cozy dish transforms everyday staples into a bowl of vibrant comfort, seasoned just enough to let cabbage’s subtle sweetness truly shine. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just craving something wholesome and nourishing, this Cabbage Soup recipe delivers a hearty meal that invites you back spoonful after spoonful.

Ingredients You’ll Need

There’s something delightfully unfussy about the ingredients for this Cabbage Soup — every one of them brings depth, color, or lift to the pot. Don’t worry if it looks basic at first glance; when they all mingle together, true magic happens.

• Extra-virgin olive oil: Gives a silky base for sautéing and layers in healthy richness.
• Carrots: Add vibrant color and gentle sweetness as they soften.
• Yellow onion: Provides the essential flavor foundation every good soup needs.
• Celery rib: Offers a mild herbal note and classic aromatic depth.
• Sea salt: Draws out the natural flavors of the vegetables.
• Freshly ground black pepper: Brings warmth and just the right hint of bite.
• White wine vinegar: Brightens the broth and balances the sweetness of the cabbage and carrots.
• Fire-roasted diced tomatoes: Infuse a subtle smokiness and rich tomato flavor.
• Vegetable broth: The hearty, flavorful liquid that ties all the ingredients together.
• Cooked white beans: Add body, protein, and a creamy bite to the soup.
• Garlic cloves: Deliver aromatic punch and savoriness.
• Yukon Gold potatoes: Bring a satisfying, buttery texture to each spoonful.
• Green cabbage: The star of the show — shreds down beautifully and soaks up all the flavors.
• Dried thyme: Weaves in an earthy, herbaceous note that complements the vegetables.
• Fresh parsley: (For garnish) Adds pop and freshness as a finishing touch.

How to Make Cabbage Soup

Step 1: Soften the Aromatics

Begin by heating the olive oil in your largest pot over medium heat. Toss in the carrots, onion, celery, salt, and a few generous grinds of black pepper. Sauté everything, stirring every now and then, for about 8 minutes. You’re looking for the vegetables to soften and the onions to become just a little bit translucent — this builds that deep, savory base that makes Cabbage Soup so inviting.

Step 2: Layer in Flavor and Simmer

Splash in the white wine vinegar to deglaze the pot and brighten things up, stirring well to release any delicious caramelized bits from the bottom. Now it’s time for the rest of the gang: fire-roasted diced tomatoes, veggie broth, drained white beans, grated garlic, diced potatoes, chopped cabbage, and dried thyme. Give it all a hearty stir, cover the pot, and let it come to a gentle simmer. In about 20 to 30 minutes, the potatoes and cabbage should be tender, and your soup will smell irresistible.

Step 3: Taste, Adjust, and Finish

Uncover the pot, give your Cabbage Soup a taste, and tweak with extra salt or pepper if you like. Right before serving, sprinkle in a generous handful of freshly chopped parsley. This last flourish wakes up all the flavors, making the soup taste even brighter and fresher.

How to Serve Cabbage Soup

Garnishes

When serving Cabbage Soup, a scattering of fresh parsley goes a long way, adding vibrant green color and a burst of herbal freshness. If you’re in the mood to jazz things up further, a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil or a light dusting of grated Parmesan can make each bowl feel extra special. For a little zing, try a squeeze of fresh lemon right before serving.

Side Dishes

This soup is a perfect match for crusty sourdough bread, which soaks up the savory broth like a dream. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette on the side adds crunch and balances the cozy warmth of the soup. If you want something heartier, serve it alongside a gooey grilled cheese or a stack of garlic toast.

Creative Ways to Present

Cabbage Soup doesn’t have to be basic when it comes to presentation! Try ladling it into bread bowls for a rustic, comforting look. You can also serve mini portions in teacups or small mugs at a dinner party as a charming, warming appetizer. For an extra pop of color, top each serving with microgreens or a tiny dollop of pesto to make the bowl truly Instagram-worthy.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any leftover Cabbage Soup cool to room temperature before storing. Pour the soup into airtight containers and refrigerate; it will keep beautifully for up to 4 days. The flavors often develop and become even richer as it rests, so don’t be surprised if your leftovers taste even better the next day!

Freezing

This Cabbage Soup freezes well, making it a perfect make-ahead meal. Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip-top bags. Label and date them, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, simply pour the soup into a pot and warm it gently over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If it’s become a little thick, splash in a bit of additional broth or water to reach your desired consistency. Microwave reheating also works well for single servings — just cover loosely and stir midway through heating to ensure even warmth.

FAQs

Can I use purple cabbage instead of green?

Absolutely! Purple cabbage will add a beautiful color and a slightly earthier flavor. Just be aware that it may tint your broth a brilliant shade of pink or purple, which can be a fun twist.

Is Cabbage Soup vegan?

Yes, as written, this Cabbage Soup recipe is naturally vegan. The olive oil, vegetable broth, and vegetables keep it plant-based and full of flavor without any dairy or animal products.

What’s the best way to chop cabbage for soup?

Remove any outer leaves, then quarter the cabbage and cut out the core. Slice each quarter crosswise into thin ribbons for a texture that softens nicely but holds up in the soup.

Can I make Cabbage Soup in a slow cooker?

Definitely! After sautéing the aromatics on the stovetop, simply transfer everything to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the veggies are perfectly tender.

How do I add protein to Cabbage Soup?

The white beans already provide a boost of protein, but you can make it heartier by tossing in tofu, tempeh, or even your favorite plant-based sausage. For omnivores, cooked shredded chicken or diced ham are classic add-ins.

Final Thoughts

Don’t be fooled by its humble ingredients; this Cabbage Soup is pure, cheerful comfort in a bowl and absolutely worth making from scratch. Whether you’re a lifelong cabbage fan or just discovering its cozy powers, give this recipe a try — your kitchen (and your tastebuds) will thank you!

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