Description
This hearty and wholesome cabbage soup is a simple, flavorful, and nourishing recipe featuring tender cabbage, carrots, celery, and a medley of warming spices. Simmered with diced tomatoes and your choice of broth, it’s easy to customize and comes together in just 40 minutes, making it perfect for a satisfying lunch or light dinner. Enjoy it as-is for a comforting vegan meal, or boost the protein with beans, chicken, or tofu.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Canned & Broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for extra flavor)
Oils & Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt to taste
Garnishes & Optional Additions
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional for added brightness)
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, chopped carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables start to soften and become fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.
- Add the Cabbage and Seasonings: Add the chopped cabbage to the pot, along with the ground turmeric, cumin, paprika, and black pepper. Stir well, making sure the cabbage is evenly coated with the oil and spices, giving the soup its signature fragrant base.
- Add the Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the vegetable broth (or chicken broth, if using) and add the undrained diced tomatoes. Stir everything together thoroughly and increase the heat to bring the soup to a gentle simmer.
- Simmer the Soup: Once simmering, lower the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup cook for 25-30 minutes. Stir occasionally, and allow the cabbage to become tender and the flavors to meld together.
- Adjust Seasoning and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust salt to your liking. Add the lemon juice for a pop of brightness, if desired. Serve warm, garnished with chopped fresh parsley.
Notes
- Customize with extra veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
- Add beans, shredded chicken, or tofu for more protein.
- Spice it up with red chili flakes or hot sauce.
- Use fresh herbs such as dill, thyme, or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
- Swap in chicken or beef broth for a richer, non-vegetarian variation.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 generous bowl (about 2 cups)
- Calories: 110
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 730mg
- Fat: 3.5g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
