Comforting Cabbage Vegetable Soup

A comforting, light, and budget-friendly cabbage soup packed with vegetables—perfect for a gentle body reset or healthy meal prep. This recipe brings together a variety of fresh produce in a savory broth, making it a nutritious choice for any day of the week.

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This Cabbage Soup is an international favorite for those looking for a clean, vegetable-forward meal that doesn't compromise on taste. Whether you are doing a body reset or just want a warm bowl of goodness, this easy-to-follow recipe delivers every time.

Ingredients

• 1 small green cabbage (about 700 g): cored and chopped
• 2 medium carrots: peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks: sliced
• 1 medium onion: diced
• 3 cloves garlic: minced
• 1 red bell pepper: diced
• 400 g (1 can) diced tomatoes:
• 1 small zucchini: diced (optional)
• 1.5 liters vegetable broth: low sodium preferred
• 1 tablespoon olive oil:
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme:
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano:
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper:
• 1/2 teaspoon salt: or to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes: optional, for heat
• Juice of 1/2 lemon: optional, for brightness
• Fresh parsley: chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics

Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery; sauté for 5 minutes until slightly softened.

Step 2: Add Garlic

Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Soften Vegetables

Add the bell pepper, zucchini (if using), and cabbage. Sauté for another 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Simmer Broth

Pour in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Add thyme, oregano, black pepper, salt, and chili flakes if using.

Step 5: Cook Thoroughly

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25–30 minutes, until all vegetables are tender.

Step 6: Final Adjustments

Adjust seasoning to taste. Stir in lemon juice if desired for a touch of brightness.

Step 7: Serve

Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For extra nutritional value and a pop of color, try adding chopped spinach or kale in the last 5 minutes of cooking. This allows the greens to wilt perfectly without losing their vibrant hue.

Varianten und Anpassungen

If you are looking for a more protein-rich meal, add drained white beans or chickpeas to the pot. This simple addition makes the soup heartier and provides a boost of plant-based protein.

Serviervorschläge

While this soup is light enough to enjoy on its own, it pairs beautifully with a slice of toasted whole-grain bread. The bread is perfect for soaking up the savory vegetable broth.

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Enjoy this wholesome Cabbage Soup as a light lunch or a comforting dinner. It is a simple yet powerful way to nourish your body with essential vegetables and delicious seasonings.

Recipe Help

→ How long does this soup keep in the refrigerator?

The soup stores beautifully for up to 4 days in an airtight container. The vegetables continue to absorb flavors, often making leftovers even more tasty than the first serving.

→ Can I freeze this for later?

Yes, portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating gently on the stovetop.

→ What proteins can I add?

White beans, chickpeas, or lentils work wonderfully. Add them during the last 15 minutes of simmering so they heat through without becoming mushy.

→ Is this suitable for specific dietary needs?

It's naturally vegan, gluten-free, and low calorie. Always verify your vegetable broth is certified gluten-free if needed.

→ Can I use other vegetables?

Absolutely. Spinach, kale, Swiss chard, or green beans make excellent additions. Add leafy greens during the final 5 minutes of cooking.