Okay, I’ll be honest… I used to think cabbage soup was boring. Just water and cabbage? No, thank you. But one day, I had a bunch of veggies sitting in the fridge, and I didn’t want to waste them.
So I threw together this cabbage soup — added some spices, some love — and guess what? It turned out so good I had to share it with you.
If you’re looking for something warm, healthy, and tasty, this cabbage soup is it. And don’t worry, it’s super easy to make. Let’s get started.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need fancy ingredients. Everything here is simple and easy to find:
- 1/2 head of green cabbage (shredded or chopped)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion (chopped)
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 2 carrots (sliced)
- 2 celery sticks (chopped)
- 1 bell pepper (any color, chopped)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional for spice)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or oregano
- A handful of chopped parsley (optional for topping)
Step-by-Step Recipe: How to Make Cabbage Soup
1. Start with the Base
Heat olive oil in a big pot. Add the chopped onion and cook for 2–3 minutes until soft. Then add garlic and cook for 1 more minute. You’ll smell the goodness starting already.
2. Add the Veggies
Throw in the carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Stir everything for about 5 minutes. This helps bring out the flavor in the veggies before we add the broth.
3. Toss in the Cabbage
Add your shredded cabbage to the pot. It may look like a lot, but it shrinks as it cooks. Stir well so everything mixes nicely.
4. Pour the Broth and Tomatoes
Now, pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Stir it all up. Add the salt, pepper, paprika, chili flakes (if using), and thyme or oregano.
5. Let It Simmer
Bring the soup to a boil. Then lower the heat and let it simmer for 25–30 minutes. The cabbage will get soft, and all the flavors will mix together. Stir now and then so nothing sticks to the bottom.
6. Taste and Adjust
Try the soup. Want more salt? Add it. Like it spicier? More chili flakes. Want it herby? Toss in some parsley or fresh herbs.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Serve hot in a bowl. Sprinkle some fresh parsley on top if you like. Enjoy it with bread, rice, or just on its own.
Why You’ll Love This Cabbage Soup
It’s Super Healthy
Low in calories, full of fiber, and packed with vitamins — this soup is perfect if you’re eating clean or just want to feel good.
It’s Cheap and Easy
Cabbage is one of the cheapest veggies out there. This recipe gives you a big pot of soup for just a few bucks.
It’s Great for Meal Prep
Make a big batch and eat it all week. It tastes even better the next day!
It’s Comfort in a Bowl
Warm, filling, and just the right amount of spice — this soup feels like a cozy blanket on a cold day.
Tips to Make It Even Better
- Add beans like kidney beans or chickpeas to make it heartier.
- Throw in extra veggies like zucchini, spinach, or green beans if you have them.
- Want it meaty? Add some shredded chicken or browned ground beef.
- Want it creamy? Add a splash of coconut milk at the end.
FAQs About Cabbage Soup
1. Can I use red cabbage instead of green?
Yes, but the soup will look different. Red cabbage gives it a purple color. Still tasty though!
2. Can I freeze cabbage soup?
Absolutely. Let it cool, put it in containers, and freeze for up to 2 months.
3. How long does it last in the fridge?
It stays fresh for 3–4 days in an airtight container. Reheat on the stove or microwave.
4. Is this soup good for weight loss?
Yes! It’s low in calories, high in fiber, and fills you up. Many people use cabbage soup in detox or diet plans.
5. What can I eat with cabbage soup?
Crusty bread, rice, grilled cheese sandwich, or just by itself — it works with anything!
Final Thoughts
I really didn’t expect much when I first made this cabbage soup. But now, it’s a regular in my kitchen. It’s cheap, healthy, and honestly just makes me feel good.
So if you’ve got some cabbage lying around, don’t let it go to waste. Try this soup — I think you’ll be surprised how good it is. Let me know how it turns out for you!
