Hereβs a hearty, comforting, and super affordable cabbage soup recipe β perfect as a light meal, meal prep option, or part of a detox/reset.
π₯£ Classic Cabbage Soup
π Time: 30β40 minutes
π½ Serves: 4β6
π§ Freezer-friendly
π₯¬ Ingredients:
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 onion, chopped
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2 carrots, diced
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2 celery stalks, diced
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3β4 garlic cloves, minced
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Β½ head of cabbage, chopped (about 4β5 cups)
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1 can (400g/14oz) diced tomatoes
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6 cups (1.5 L) vegetable or chicken broth
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1 tsp salt, more to taste
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Β½ tsp black pepper
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1 tsp paprika (optional, for warmth)
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1 tsp dried thyme or Italian herbs
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1β2 bay leaves
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(Optional) a splash of vinegar or lemon juice for brightness
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(Optional) red pepper flakes if you want a bit of heat
π¨βπ³ Instructions:
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SautΓ© the base:
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Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
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Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5β7 minutes, until softened.
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Add garlic and cook another minute until fragrant.
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Add cabbage and seasoning:
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Stir in chopped cabbage, salt, pepper, paprika, herbs, and bay leaves.
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SautΓ© for a couple of minutes to soften slightly.
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Add liquids:
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Pour in diced tomatoes and broth.
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Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer 25β30 minutes until cabbage and veggies are tender.
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Finish:
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Remove bay leaves.
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Taste and adjust seasoning.
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Add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice if it needs brightness.
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π½ Serving Suggestions:
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Serve with crusty bread or a dollop of sour cream.
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Add cooked beans or shredded chicken for extra protein.
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Sprinkle with fresh parsley for a fresh touch.
π Variations:
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Spicy version: Add chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
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Low-carb/keto: Skip carrots or use fewer tomatoes.
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Cabbage roll soup: Add ground beef and a bit of rice for a deconstructed version of stuffed cabbage rolls.
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Asian-style: Use ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and a touch of sesame oil.