ADVERTISEMENT
– **1 medium head of cabbage**, chopped into bite-sized pieces
– **1 large onion**, diced
– **2 medium carrots**, peeled and sliced
– **2 celery stalks**, chopped
– **2 cloves garlic**, minced
– **1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes**
– **4 cups vegetable broth** (or chicken broth, if preferred)
– **2 teaspoons olive oil**
– **1 bay leaf**
– **1 teaspoon dried thyme**
– **1/2 teaspoon salt**, or to taste
– **1/4 teaspoon pepper**, or to taste
– **Optional add-ins**: Fresh parsley, a squeeze of lemon juice, or some red pepper flakes for a little heat
### Instructions:
#### Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by chopping all your vegetables. Dice the onion, peel and slice the carrots, chop the celery, and mince the garlic. Finally, chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Having everything prepared before you begin cooking makes the process quicker and easier.
#### Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat **2 teaspoons of olive oil** in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the **onion** and cook until it softens, about 3-4 minutes. Add the **garlic**, and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant. This step builds the foundation for the soup’s flavor.
#### Step 3: Add the Vegetables and Broth
Add the **carrots**, **celery**, and **cabbage** to the pot. Stir the vegetables to combine. Pour in the **diced tomatoes** (with their juices) and the **vegetable broth**. Stir everything together, making sure the vegetables are well incorporated in the broth.
#### Step 4: Season the Soup
Add the **bay leaf**, **dried thyme**, **salt**, and **pepper** to the soup. Stir well, and bring the soup to a boil.
#### Step 5: Simmer the Soup
Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for **30-40 minutes**, uncovered. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to soften. Stir occasionally to make sure the vegetables are cooking evenly. The cabbage should be tender, but still have some texture.
#### Step 6: Adjust the Seasonings
Once the soup is done, taste it and adjust the seasonings as needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or thyme according to your taste preferences. For a bright finish, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a handful of chopped parsley can add some freshness and color to the soup.
#### Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!
Ladle the hot cabbage soup into bowls and serve. If you like, sprinkle with fresh parsley or a few red pepper flakes for a little extra flavor. Pair with a slice of whole grain bread or a light salad for a well-rounded meal.
### Tips for the Best Cabbage Soup:
1. **Use Fresh Cabbage**: Fresh cabbage works best in this soup, as it retains its flavor and texture when cooked. Avoid using pre-shredded cabbage, as it can become too soft and mushy in the soup.
2. **Add More Veggies**: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans. The more vegetables, the more nutrients and flavor!
3. **Make It a Full Meal**: If you want to turn this soup into a more substantial meal, add some protein like cooked chicken, beans, or even some cooked quinoa for a boost of fiber and protein.
4. **Spicy Kick**: If you like some heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some hot sauce to the soup. This adds a nice contrast to the mild, earthy flavor of the cabbage.
5. **Make It Ahead**: This soup actually gets better the longer it sits, as the flavors have time to develop. You can make it a day or two ahead of time and store it in the fridge for an easy, reheatable meal.
6. **Freezing**: If you have leftovers or want to make a large batch, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it.
### Health Benefits of Cabbage Soup:
Cabbage is a nutritional powerhouse. It’s low in calories but high in **fiber**, making it great for digestion and helping you feel full longer. It’s also rich in **vitamin C**, which supports the immune system, and **antioxidants** that help fight inflammation. This soup is an excellent choice for anyone looking to eat healthily or reduce their calorie intake without compromising on taste.
### Conclusion:
**Easy Cabbage Soup** is one of those dishes that everyone should have in their recipe collection. It’s simple to make, packed with vegetables, and can be customized to suit your tastes. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a comforting dinner, or a healthy option for meal prep, this soup ticks all the boxes. The cabbage adds great texture and nutrition, while the other vegetables and seasonings bring it all together in a flavorful, satisfying way.
So, the next time you’re craving something hearty and healthy, make a big pot of cabbage soup. It’s a delicious, nourishing dish that’s perfect for any time of year. Enjoy!
