Classic Cabbage Soup – Detailed Recipe

⏱ Prep: 15 minutes
⏱ Cook: 35 minutes
🍽 Servings: 6

🛒 Ingredients

Vegetables

• 1 small green cabbage (about 6 cups chopped)

• 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced thin

• 2 celery stalks, sliced

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 1 red bell pepper, diced (optional for sweetness)

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

Liquids & Base

• 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes with juice

• 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth

• 2 tbsp olive oil

Seasonings

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 1 tsp dried oregano

• ½ tsp smoked paprika (optional for depth)

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

Optional Garnish

• Fresh parsley, chopped

• Green onions, sliced

• Lemon wedge (for a bright finish)

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the Vegetables

1. Wash all vegetables thoroughly.

2. Remove tough outer leaves of the cabbage and chop into bite-sized pieces.

3. Peel and slice carrots.

4. Dice onion and red bell pepper.

5. Slice celery, and mince garlic.

2️⃣ Sauté Aromatics

1. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.

2. Add onion, carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.

3. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds, stirring constantly to avoid burning.

3️⃣ Add Cabbage and Liquids

1. Stir in chopped cabbage and toss to mix with other vegetables.

2. Pour in diced tomatoes with juice and 6 cups of broth.

3. Add thyme, oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.

4. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

4️⃣ Simmer the Soup

1. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.

2. Reduce heat to low, cover partially, and simmer for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. The cabbage should be tender, and the soup will be slightly thickened with the natural vegetable juices.

5️⃣ Adjust Seasoning & Finish

1. Taste the soup and adjust salt and pepper as needed.

2. Optional: Squeeze a lemon wedge into the soup for brightness.

3. Garnish with chopped parsley or sliced green onions.

6️⃣ Serve

• Ladle hot into bowls.

• Serve as a light lunch, dinner, or starter.

• Pair with crusty bread or crackers for a full meal.

🔥 Tips for Perfect Cabbage Soup

• Avoid mushy vegetables: Chop veggies uniformly so everything cooks evenly.

• Extra flavor: Add 1–2 tsp soy sauce or a splash of apple cider vinegar for depth.

• Protein boost: Add cooked chicken, turkey, beans, or lentils for a heartier meal.

• Make ahead: Soup stores well in the fridge for 4 days or freezes for up to 3 months.

🥗 Variations

• Spicy Cabbage Soup: Add ½ tsp red pepper flakes or 1 diced jalapeño.

• Italian Style: Add zucchini, pasta, and Italian seasoning.

• Winter Hearty Soup: Include diced potatoes, parsnips, or kale for extra nutrition.