Warm up with a comforting, nutritious Cabbage Soup Recipe that’s both delicious and simple to prepare anytime. This classic dish brings together fresh vegetables and savory broth in a way that feels like a big, cozy hug on a chilly day. Whether you’re looking for a healthy meal, a light lunch, or an easy dinner, this cabbage soup recipe delivers flavor and nourishment with every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

A healthy comfort meal: Packed with fiber and vitamins, this soup makes you feel great inside and out.
Simple ingredients: Requires just everyday veggies and pantry staples, making it convenient and accessible.
Quick and easy to prepare: Ready in under an hour, perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute meals.
Low calorie but filling: Keeps you satisfied without any heavy feeling or extra guilt.
Highly customizable: Perfect for tailoring with your favorite spices, proteins, or veggies.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These straightforward ingredients come together to build layers of flavor, texture, and color that make this cabbage soup recipe truly stand out. Each item plays an essential role, from the crunch of fresh cabbage to the aromatic herbs that bring warmth to every bite.

Green cabbage: The star of the dish, adding bulk, crunch, and a subtle natural sweetness.
Carrots: Add a touch of sweetness and vibrant color to brighten the soup.
Onion: Provides a savory foundation with its aromatic depth.
Garlic cloves: Bring mild pungency and richness that elevates all other flavors.
Celery stalks: Introduce a fresh, slightly peppery note and texture.
Vegetable or chicken broth: Creates the flavorful liquid base essential for a comforting soup.
Diced tomatoes (optional): Add acidity and a burst of umami if you like a richer finish.
Salt and pepper: Simple seasoning that balances and enhances every ingredient.
Olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables and infusing them with subtle richness.
Bay leaf: Imparts gentle herbal warmth during simmering.
Fresh parsley or dill (optional): Adds a fresh, bright touch just before serving.

Variations for Cabbage Soup Recipe

Feel free to get creative and adjust this cabbage soup recipe to your liking. It’s a versatile canvas that welcomes all sorts of customizations to suit your pantry, dietary needs, or flavor cravings.

Add protein: Stir in cooked chicken, turkey, or beans for a heartier meal.
Spice it up: Toss in red pepper flakes, cayenne, or smoked paprika for added kick.
Go vegetarian or vegan: Use vegetable broth and skip any meat for a plant-based delight.
Include other vegetables: Add potatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra texture and flavor.
Use different herbs: Experiment with thyme, rosemary, or basil to change the herbal profile.

Classic Cabbage Soup Recipe for a Healthy Comfort Meal

How to Make Cabbage Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Vegetables

Start by washing and chopping the green cabbage into bite-sized pieces, dice the carrots, celery, and onion, and mince the garlic cloves. Preparing these ahead makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and celery, stirring occasionally until they become translucent and fragrant—about 5 minutes. Then add garlic and sauté for another minute to release its aroma.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

Next, toss in the chopped carrots and cabbage, stirring well to combine. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes until the cabbage begins to soften but still retains some crunch.

Step 4: Pour in Broth and Simmer

Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, add diced tomatoes if using, and toss in the bay leaf. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for approximately 25 to 30 minutes until all vegetables are tender and flavors meld together beautifully.

Step 5: Season and Serve

Remove the bay leaf and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in fresh parsley or dill if desired. Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy it warm for maximum comfort.

Pro Tips for Making Cabbage Soup Recipe

Choose fresh cabbage: Look for firm, vibrant green cabbage to ensure the best texture and flavor.
Don’t overcook the cabbage: Keeping a slight crunch adds texture and prevents the soup from becoming mushy.
Balance acidity: If your broth or tomatoes are very acidic, add a pinch of sugar to harmonize the flavors.
Infuse herbs properly: Add bay leaves early in cooking but fresh herbs near the end for the freshest taste.
Customize consistency: For a thicker soup, mash a few veggies against the side of the pot and stir.

How to Serve Cabbage Soup Recipe

Garnishes

Top your cabbage soup with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill, a dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt, or a crack of freshly ground black pepper to add inviting visual appeal and complementary flavors.

Side Dishes

Pair this soup with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a light green salad. These sides add texture and make the meal more filling and balanced.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the soup in rustic bowls or mason jars for a cozy, inviting presentation. You can also add a swirl of chili oil or drizzle of pesto for a pop of color and gourmet flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it perfect for reheating throughout the week.

Freezing

This cabbage soup recipe freezes wonderfully. Cool the soup, pour it into freezer-safe bags or containers, and store it for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat the soup gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened too much after refrigeration or freezing.

FAQs

Can I use red cabbage instead of green cabbage?

Absolutely! Red cabbage will add a slightly different flavor and a lovely purple color, but the cooking process remains the same.

Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?

Yes, this soup is naturally low in carbohydrates, especially if you skip the optional tomatoes or limit starchy additions like potatoes.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Definitely! After sautéing the aromatics, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours for deep, developed flavors.

What can I add to make the soup more filling?

Add cooked beans, lentils, tofu, or lean meats to boost the protein content and turn it into a more substantial meal.

How do I prevent the soup from tasting bitter?

Make sure not to overcook the cabbage and use fresh, high-quality ingredients. Adding a small pinch of sugar can also help balance any bitterness.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dish that feels like home, is packed with nutrients, and easy to whip up, this Cabbage Soup Recipe is your perfect go-to. It’s cozy, satisfying, and versatile enough to become a staple in your cooking rotation. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite comfort meal!

Cabbage Soup Recipe

Author: Anna
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Appetizers
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: American / Comfort Food
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A comforting and nutritious cabbage soup recipe featuring fresh vegetables and savory broth, perfect for a healthy meal that is simple to prepare, low in calories, and highly customizable to suit any taste or dietary preference.

Instructions

Prepare Your Vegetables: Wash and chop the green cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Dice the carrots, celery, and onion, and mince the garlic cloves. Having all vegetables prepped ahead makes cooking smooth and enjoyable.
Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and celery, stirring occasionally until translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute to release its aroma.
Add the Vegetables: Toss in the diced carrots and chopped cabbage, stirring well to combine. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the cabbage begins to soften but retains some crunch.
Pour in Broth and Simmer: Add the vegetable or chicken broth, diced tomatoes if using, and the bay leaf. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes until vegetables are tender and flavors meld.
Season and Serve: Remove the bay leaf. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in fresh parsley or dill if desired. Ladle into bowls and enjoy warm.

Notes

Choose fresh, firm green cabbage for the best texture and flavor.
Do not overcook the cabbage to keep a slight crunch and avoid mushiness.
Add a pinch of sugar if your broth or tomatoes are very acidic to balance flavors.
Add bay leaf early during simmering; add fresh herbs near the end for freshness.
For thicker soup, mash some veggies against the side of the pot and stir.