Cabbage Soup

Looking for a comforting and healthy meal option? Look no further than this flavorful cabbage soup recipe. Packed with wholesome vegetables and aromatic herbs, this soup is not only delicious but also incredibly nourishing. Whether you’re craving a cozy meal on a chilly evening or looking to add more veggies to your diet, this cabbage soup is sure to satisfy your taste buds and leave you feeling satisfied.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 head of cabbage, chopped
• 1 cup celery, diced
• 1 cup white or yellow onion, diced
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 14 oz can basil oregano, garlic diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon basil
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Few shakes of black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients: Start by chopping the cabbage and dicing the celery, onion, carrots, and bell pepper. Mince the garlic and set aside.
2. Saute Vegetables: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced celery, onions, bell peppers, and carrots. Saute until the vegetables are slightly tender.
3. Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, adding a delightful aroma to the soup.
4. Pour in Broth: Pour in the chicken broth, providing a flavorful base for the soup.
5. Incorporate Tomatoes and Cabbage: Stir in the diced tomatoes and chopped cabbage, adding richness and texture to the soup.
6. Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Allow the soup to cook until the cabbage is tender, typically around 15-20 minutes.
7. Season: Stir in the oregano, basil, red pepper flakes, black pepper, and salt (if using), enhancing the flavors of the soup.
8. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning according to your preference, ensuring the perfect balance of flavors.
9. Serve: Ladle the warm and comforting soup into bowls. Serve and enjoy the hearty goodness of this nutritious cabbage soup!

Serving and Storage Tips:

1. Garnish and Serve: Enhance the presentation of your cabbage soup by garnishing it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or a drizzle of olive oil. Serve the soup alongside crusty bread or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.
2. Make Ahead: This cabbage soup is perfect for meal prep. You can make a batch ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave when ready to serve.
3. Freeze for Later: If you want to enjoy this soup later or have leftovers, consider freezing individual portions in airtight containers. Frozen cabbage soup can last for up to 3 months in the freezer, providing a convenient option for busy days.
4. Thawing and Reheating: When ready to enjoy frozen cabbage soup, transfer it to the refrigerator overnight to thaw. Alternatively, you can reheat it directly from frozen on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
5. Customize to Taste: Feel free to customize this recipe to suit your preferences. You can add extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini, swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth to make it vegetarian, or adjust the seasoning according to your taste.
6. Meal Pairing Ideas: Pair this cabbage soup with a variety of side dishes such as grilled cheese sandwiches, a fresh green salad, or garlic bread for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
7. Portion Control: If you’re watching your portion sizes, consider serving the cabbage soup in smaller bowls or cups as a starter or appetizer before the main course.
8. Leftover Ideas: Get creative with leftover cabbage soup by using it as a base for other dishes. You can blend it to make a creamy cabbage soup, use it as a sauce for pasta or rice, or add cooked protein like shredded chicken or beans to make it heartier.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy the deliciousness of cabbage soup anytime while minimizing waste and maximizing convenience. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, this versatile and nutritious soup is sure to be a hit!

Variations:

1. Spicy Cabbage Soup: Add a kick to your soup by increasing the amount of red pepper flakes or adding a dash of hot sauce. You can also incorporate diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
2. Creamy Cabbage Soup: For a creamy texture, blend a portion of the cooked soup until smooth using an immersion blender or a regular blender. Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk for richness before serving.
3. Protein-Packed Cabbage Soup: Boost the protein content of your soup by adding cooked shredded chicken, diced ham, or cooked beans such as kidney beans or cannellini beans. This variation makes the soup more filling and satisfying.
4. Asian-Inspired Cabbage Soup: Give your soup an Asian twist by adding ingredients like ginger, soy sauce, and a splash of rice vinegar. You can also garnish it with chopped green onions and cilantro for added freshness.
5. Italian Cabbage Soup: Create an Italian-inspired version of this soup by using Italian seasoning blend instead of oregano and basil. Add cooked Italian sausage or ground beef for extra flavor, and top each serving with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Curried Cabbage Soup: Infuse your soup with aromatic curry spices such as curry powder, turmeric, and cumin. You can also add coconut milk for creaminess and garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped peanuts for added texture.
7. Lemon-Herb Cabbage Soup: Brighten up the flavors of your soup by adding a splash of fresh lemon juice and zest. Stir in chopped fresh herbs such as parsley, dill, or thyme for a burst of freshness.
8. Mushroom and Cabbage Soup: Enhance the earthy flavors of the soup by adding sliced mushrooms during the sautéing process. Use a variety of mushrooms like cremini, shiitake, or button mushrooms for depth of flavor.
9. Roasted Vegetable Cabbage Soup: For a richer flavor profile, roast the vegetables (celery, onion, carrots, bell pepper) in the oven before adding them to the soup. Roasting intensifies their natural sweetness and adds complexity to the dish.
10. Tex-Mex Cabbage Soup: Give your soup a Tex-Mex twist by adding ingredients like diced tomatoes with green chilies, cumin, chili powder, and a squeeze of lime juice. Serve with toppings such as diced avocado, shredded cheese, and crushed tortilla chips for a fun and flavorful meal.

Experiment with these variations to create your own unique spin on cabbage soup and discover new flavor combinations that suit your taste preferences. Whether you prefer it spicy, creamy, or packed with protein, there’s a cabbage soup variation to satisfy every craving!

With its vibrant colors, aromatic spices, and nourishing vegetables, this cabbage soup is a delightful addition to any mealtime repertoire. Whether you’re seeking a hearty dinner option or a satisfying lunch, this recipe is sure to impress with its delicious flavor and wholesome ingredients. So, gather your ingredients, whip up a batch of this delightful cabbage soup, and savor every spoonful of its comforting goodness.