If you’re searching for a delicious, soul-warming dish that delivers major comfort and tons of nutrition in every spoonful, the Best Cabbage Soup is about to become your new go-to recipe. Packed with tender cabbage, aromatic veggies, and a tangy tomato broth, this soup ticks all the right boxes: it’s easy, healthy, wonderfully adaptable, and has a way of tasting even better the next day. Whether you’re making a big batch for family meals or simply craving a bowl of something to cozy up with, this is truly a bowl of happiness you’ll want to return to over and over again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe proves you don’t need fancy ingredients for fantastic results—each veggie and seasoning here earns its spot in the pot, contributing to the Best Cabbage Soup’s irresistible balance of savory flavor, vibrant color, and satisfying texture.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and carries all the vegetable flavors beautifully; use extra-virgin for more depth.
- Onion (1 small, chopped): Provides a sweet, complex base and is a key flavor-builder for the soup.
- Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Brightens the whole pot with its signature aroma—nothing beats freshly minced garlic.
- Carrots (3, peeled and sliced): Bring subtle sweetness and splash of color; slice them evenly for consistent cooking.
- Celery (2 stalks, chopped): Lends a mild, herbal crunch and rounds out the classic soup flavor profile.
- Green cabbage (½ head, chopped): The star of the show—choose a fresh, crisp head for maximum flavor and texture.
- Diced tomatoes with juice (14.5 oz can): Adds gentle acidity and a bright, rich base; use quality tomatoes for the best results.
- Vegetable or chicken broth (6 cups): Delivers all the comforting liquid and makes the soup satisfying; go for low-sodium if you wish to adjust the salt yourself.
- Salt (1 teaspoon): Enhances every flavor in the mix—season to taste as you go.
- Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds a sharp, warming kick to balance the natural sweetness of the veggies.
- Dried basil (1 teaspoon): Infuses the soup with herbal depth and a subtle Mediterranean flair.
- Dried oregano (½ teaspoon): Partners well with basil to build earthy, savory notes that elevate the broth.
- Smoked paprika (¼ teaspoon, optional): Gives a hint of smokiness that makes the soup extra cozy, though you can skip it for a milder flavor.
- Tomato paste (1 tablespoon): Intensifies the tomato flavor for a richer, more robust broth.
- Lemon juice (from ½ lemon): Adds a final bright, fresh finish that wakes up all the flavors at the end.
- Fresh parsley (chopped, for garnish): Brings a crisp, herbal pop and a pretty finishing touch—don’t skip it if you can help it!
How to Make Best Cabbage Soup
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Drop in the chopped onion and let it sizzle for three to four minutes. You’re looking for the onions to just turn tender and translucent—they’ll form the flavor foundation for the Best Cabbage Soup. Stir frequently so nothing browns or burns, just softens and releases sweetness.
Step 2: Add the Carrots, Celery, and Garlic
Next, stir in the carrots, celery, and garlic. Cook for about five minutes, letting their fragrances mingle and their flavors deepen together. You want the veggies just starting to soften, releasing color and aroma into the pot. This simple step adds so much body to the finished soup.
Step 3: Wilt the Cabbage
Sprinkle in the chopped cabbage and give everything a good mix. Cook for another two to three minutes. You’ll notice the cabbage beginning to soften and shrink, soaking up flavors from the other veggies—it’s the first sign your Best Cabbage Soup is on track for greatness!
Step 4: Build the Broth
Pour in the diced tomatoes (with all their juice), tomato paste, and broth. Follow with salt, black pepper, dried basil, oregano, and smoked paprika if you’re using it. Give it all a nice, big stir until the tomato paste dissolves. This combination transforms your pot into a wholesome, fragrant soup—now watch as the colors meld and deepen.
Step 5: Simmer for Flavor
Increase the heat and bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat so the soup simmers uncovered for 25 to 30 minutes. This is where the magic happens—the vegetables become beautifully tender, and all the flavors develop into the familiar, soothing harmony that makes this the Best Cabbage Soup. Make sure to check and stir occasionally for even cooking.
Step 6: Brighten and Serve
Once the veggies are perfectly tender, squeeze in the lemon juice and give the soup a final taste to see if you need more salt or pepper. The splash of lemon wakes up all those slow-simmered flavors! Ladle into bowls, then shower with chopped fresh parsley for that final pop of color and flavor.
How to Serve Best Cabbage Soup
Garnishes
For an extra burst of freshness, finish your Best Cabbage Soup with a scattering of chopped parsley just before serving. If you’re a fan of cheese, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or a swirl of plain Greek yogurt can take things up a notch. Even a dash of extra black pepper or a squeeze of lemon gives each bowl a little character of its own.
Side Dishes
This soup is hearty enough on its own, but nothing beats enjoying it with warm, crusty bread or a slice of toasted sourdough for dipping. If you want a heartier spread, pair it with a simple green salad, or serve alongside roasted potatoes or a grilled cheese sandwich for extra comfort points.
Creative Ways to Present
The Best Cabbage Soup shines in all sorts of settings! Ladle it into mugs for a handheld lunch or appetizer, serve family-style in a wide pot at the center of your table, or nestle a big soup bowl on a rustic wooden board with garnishes and bread tucked alongside. Individual touches like lemon wedges or a drizzle of good olive oil add extra flair for guests, but the soup’s warmth and color are inviting all on their own.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup is a meal prep superstar. Let leftovers cool completely before pouring them into airtight containers. Stored in the refrigerator, Best Cabbage Soup will keep beautifully for up to four days—just another reason to make a double batch!
Freezing
If you want to save a portion for later, this soup freezes like a charm. Once completely cooled, ladle into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty zip bags, leaving about an inch of space at the top for expansion. Label and date, then freeze for up to three months. Thaw in the fridge overnight when ready to enjoy again.
Reheating
To reheat, simply pour the soup into a pot over medium heat and stir gently until simmering. If it has thickened in the fridge or freezer, just add a splash of water or broth to loosen things up. You can also reheat in the microwave in short bursts, stirring between intervals for even heating.
FAQs
Can I add protein to make this soup more filling?
Absolutely! The Best Cabbage Soup is incredibly flexible. Stir in drained beans or lentils before simmering for a plant-based boost, or add cooked ground turkey or beef if you’re not vegetarian. Adjust seasonings as needed to match your additions.
Is this soup suitable for keto or low-carb diets?
Yes—just skip the carrots and scale back the tomatoes to lower the carb content. The Best Cabbage Soup is easy to customize and still packs plenty of flavor even with those tweaks.
Can I use purple cabbage instead of green?
You sure can! Purple cabbage will add a gorgeous color and slightly earthier flavor. The Best Cabbage Soup will look even more vibrant and still taste delicious, though the broth might tint a bit purple.
What can I do if I don’t have tomato paste?
If you’re missing tomato paste, just use a bit more diced tomato or leave it out—the soup will have a slightly lighter tomato flavor, but it will still be absolutely satisfying.
Does this soup really taste better the next day?
Oh yes! Giving the Best Cabbage Soup a night in the fridge allows the flavors to meld and intensify, making for an even richer and more rewarding bowl the next day. Sometimes leftovers are the highlight!
Final Thoughts
Warm, comforting, and bursting with freshness in every spoonful, the Best Cabbage Soup is one of those magical recipes you’ll turn to whenever you crave something both nourishing and deeply delicious. Give it a try, play with garnishes or extras, and make it your own—I can’t wait to hear what you think of this cozy classic!
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Best Cabbage Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Best Cabbage Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a cozy night in. Packed with healthy vegetables and savory seasonings, this vegan soup is easy to make and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a detoxifying meal or just craving a comforting bowl of soup, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.
Ingredients
Vegetable Base:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1/2 head green cabbage, chopped
Seasonings and Broth:
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
Finishing Touches:
- juice of 1/2 lemon
- chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Base: Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until softened. Stir in garlic, carrots, and celery, cooking for 5 minutes. Add cabbage and cook for 2-3 minutes.
- Add Seasonings and Broth: Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, broth, salt, pepper, basil, oregano, and smoked paprika if using. Bring to a boil, then simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in lemon juice, adjust seasoning, and serve hot, garnished with parsley.
Notes
- This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day.
- Add beans or lentils for extra protein, or ground beef or turkey for a heartier version.
- For a low-carb option, skip the carrots or reduce the tomato content.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
