This warm and hearty cabbage soup is packed with healthy veggies and flavors. It’s simple to make and a great way to use up leftover cabbage!
I like to add a sprinkle of herbs for a bit of fun. Plus, it’s perfect for lunch or dinner, and you can enjoy it guilt-free. How can soup be this delicious and good for you? 🍵
Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: A medium head of cabbage is essential here, but if you want something milder, napa cabbage is a great choice. It’s tender and cooks quickly, making the soup a bit lighter.
Ground Beef or Turkey: I usually reach for ground turkey for a leaner option. You can also use lentils or mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. They add great texture and flavor!
Onion and Garlic: These are aromatic must-haves. If you’re not a fan of strong flavors, use shallots for a subtler taste. They are sweet and lovely in soups.
Broth: Beef broth gives a rich flavor, but vegetable broth keeps it lighter. Homemade or low-sodium broth is always a winner for better taste and health.
Carrots and Bell Pepper: Feel free to swap in other veggies like zucchini or green beans for variation. Colorful veggies not only taste great but also make the soup look gorgeous!
How Do I Perfectly Sauté Aromatics for the Best Flavor?
Sautéing the onion and garlic correctly adds incredible depth to your soup. Start with medium heat and give them time to cook gently.
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion first and cook for about 5 minutes until it’s translucent.
- Then, toss in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes, just until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
- This step builds the base flavor and makes your soup delicious!
How to Make Hearty Cabbage Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 large carrots, diced
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How Much Time Will You Need?
This cabbage soup recipe will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 40 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll spend about 50 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a warming meal any day!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, pour in the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Once it’s hot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
2. Brown the Meat:
Add the ground beef or turkey to the pot. Cook it for 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Keep cooking until it’s nicely browned. If there’s any extra fat, feel free to drain it off.
3. Add the Veggies:
Stir in the diced carrots and bell pepper. Cook these for another 3-4 minutes until they start to soften. Your kitchen will smell great by now!
4. Combine Everything:
Next, it’s time to add the chopped cabbage, the can of diced tomatoes (make sure to include the juice), broth, and water into the pot. Mix everything together well so it’s evenly combined.
5. Season the Soup:
Sprinkle in the dried thyme, paprika, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir and bring the soup to a boil. This is where the flavors start to meld together!
6. Let it Simmer:
Once boiling, lower the heat to a gentle simmer and cover the pot. Let it cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage becomes tender. This is the perfect time to relax while your soup cooks!
7. Final Touches:
Before serving, remember to remove the bay leaf. Taste your soup and add more seasoning if you like. Adjust it to your preference for salt and pepper.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Enjoy your hot and hearty cabbage soup! You can garnish it with fresh herbs if desired. It’s a comforting dish, perfect for any day!
Can I Use a Different Meat in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you prefer, you can substitute the ground beef or turkey with chicken, pork, or a plant-based meat alternative. Just ensure that any alternative you’ve chosen is cooked through before adding the other ingredients, and adjust the cooking time as needed.
What Can I Substitute for Cabbage?
If you’re not a fan of cabbage, you can try using kale, Swiss chard, or even spinach. Keep in mind that these greens will have different cooking times; for example, spinach wilts quickly and should be added in the last 10 minutes of cooking.
How to Store Leftover Cabbage Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Soup?
Definitely! This soup is very versatile. Feel free to add in vegetables like zucchini, green beans, or potatoes. Just make sure to cut them into similar-sized pieces so they cook evenly. Add heartier vegetables earlier in the cooking process and quicker-cooking ones later on.
