Let me tell you, there’s something magical about a warm bowl of healthy cabbage soup. It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly nights or whenever I need a little comfort. Packed with vibrant vegetables, this soup is not just delicious but also incredibly nutritious. Cabbage is low in calories but high in fiber, making it a fantastic choice for anyone looking to eat healthier. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma filled my kitchen, and I couldn’t wait to dive in! Trust me, each spoonful is a delightful blend of flavors that warms both the body and soul.
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this comforting healthy cabbage soup. Make sure your ingredients are fresh for the best flavor! I love to prep everything beforehand so it’s all ready to go. Here’s the breakdown:
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped into bite-sized pieces. Make sure to remove the core for a smoother texture.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil, used for sautéing. It adds a lovely richness to the soup.
- 1 large onion, diced. This will form the flavor base, so chop it finely for even cooking.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced. Fresh garlic gives a wonderful aroma and depth of flavor.
- 3 carrots, sliced. I like to slice them thinly for quicker cooking and a nice bite.
- 2 celery stalks, diced. Celery adds crunch and a subtle sweetness.
- 4 cups vegetable broth, for the liquid. You can use homemade or store-bought, but go for low-sodium if you prefer.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained. This adds a tangy flavor and a pop of color.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme, for a herby note. You could also use fresh if you have it on hand!
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano. This complements the other flavors beautifully.
- Salt and pepper to taste. I usually add these at the end to get the seasoning just right.
- 1 bay leaf, which you’ll remove before serving for a subtle depth of flavor.
- Fresh parsley, for garnish. It brightens up the soup and makes it look pretty!
How to Prepare Healthy Cabbage Soup
Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, it’s time to bring this delicious healthy cabbage soup to life! Follow these steps, and you’ll have a pot of hearty goodness in no time. Trust me, this process is straightforward and oh-so-worth it!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want it hot enough that it shimmers but not smoking. This will help to sauté the vegetables perfectly.
- Once the oil is ready, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté these for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become translucent and fragrant. This is where the magic begins!
- Next, toss in the sliced carrots and diced celery. Cook these for another 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until they start to soften and caramelize a bit. You’ll love the aroma filling your kitchen at this point!
- Now, stir in the chopped cabbage. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until it wilts down. Keep stirring, so it all gets a little love from the pot.
- Pour in the 4 cups of vegetable broth along with the undrained diced tomatoes. Add the dried thyme, dried oregano, bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper. Bring this mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.
- After simmering, carefully remove the bay leaf and taste the soup. Adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a vibrant finish!
And there you have it! A comforting bowl of healthy cabbage soup that’s not only easy to make but also bursting with flavor. Enjoy every spoonful!
Nutritional Information
Here’s the good part! This healthy cabbage soup isn’t just comforting and delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients. Each bowl has an estimated nutritional profile that makes it a guilt-free choice for any meal. Here’s what you can expect:
- Calories: 150
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 6g
- Sugar: 5g
- Protein: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on standard ingredients and serving sizes, so feel free to adjust as needed depending on your choices. Enjoy your healthy bowl of goodness!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Hearty and satisfying, yet light on calories—only 150 per bowl!
- Packed with fiber from the cabbage and veggies, keeping you full longer.
- Versatile and customizable to fit your taste preferences.
- Great for meal prep; it tastes even better the next day!
Tips for Success
To make sure your healthy cabbage soup turns out perfectly, here are some handy tips! First, when sautéing the onions and garlic, don’t rush it—let them cook until they’re translucent and fragrant. This builds a solid flavor base. If you want a deeper flavor, you can also add a splash of soy sauce or a bit of balsamic vinegar while sautéing.
Seasoning is key, so taste your soup before serving! You can always adjust the salt and pepper to suit your preference, and if you like a little kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes. Also, don’t be afraid to mix in other veggies you have on hand; this soup is super forgiving! Lastly, let the soup simmer long enough for the flavors to blend—trust me, it makes a world of difference. Happy cooking!
Variations
One of the best things about this healthy cabbage soup is how adaptable it is! If you want to boost the protein, toss in some cooked beans or lentils; they’re not only nutritious but also add a lovely texture. I love adding a cup of chickpeas or black beans for a hearty twist!
Feeling adventurous with flavors? Experiment with herbs and spices! Fresh dill or cilantro can really brighten up the soup, while a touch of smoked paprika can add a nice depth. You could even sprinkle in some chili powder for a bit of heat.
For a different vibe, try adding a splash of lemon juice or vinegar just before serving to enhance the flavors. And don’t forget, you can switch up the veggies based on what’s in your fridge—this soup is perfect for using up odds and ends! Enjoy making it your own!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
If you have leftovers of this delicious healthy cabbage soup, you’re in luck! Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Just make sure it cools to room temperature before sealing it up to avoid condensation. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave it in a microwave-safe bowl; just cover it loosely to prevent splatters. If it thickens, add a splash of broth or water to bring it back to your desired consistency. Enjoy your comforting soup once more!
Serving Suggestions
This healthy cabbage soup is fantastic on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a few simple sides! I love serving it alongside a slice of warm, crusty bread for dipping—there’s just something about the combination that feels so comforting. A fresh, crunchy salad with a light vinaigrette also complements the soup perfectly, adding a refreshing contrast. You could even throw in some cheese toast for a little indulgence! Enjoy your meal!
For more delicious soup recipes, check out this classic tomato soup recipe or this Scottish lentil soup for a hearty twist!
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Healthy Cabbage Soup: 7 Steps to Comforting Deliciousness
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A nutritious and hearty cabbage soup packed with vegetables and flavor.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bay leaf
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, sauté until translucent.
- Add carrots and celery, cook for 5 minutes.
- Stir in chopped cabbage, cook until wilted.
- Pour in vegetable broth and add diced tomatoes.
- Add thyme, oregano, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Remove bay leaf and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
- For a protein boost, add cooked beans or lentils.
- Experiment with different herbs for varied flavors.
- Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 150
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 22g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: cabbage soup, healthy soup, vegetable soup, vegan soup