healthy Cabbage Soup recipe
Cabbage Soup is the perfect dish for any time of the year. This hearty soup combines tender cabbage, vibrant vegetables, and flavorful seasonings to create a nourishing meal that’s both satisfying and light. Whether you’re looking to enjoy a cozy family dinner or whip up a batch for meal prep, this simple yet delicious soup is sure to impress. Plus, it’s a great way to use up fresh veggies and keep things healthy!
Enjoy the rich flavors and comforting warmth of this classic Cabbage Soup! 🥣🍲
Ingredients:
Vegetables:
- 1 medium cabbage, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 bell pepper (red or green), diced
- 1 can (400 g) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 cups water
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional)
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 cup cooked chicken or beef (for a non-vegetarian version)
- 1 cup kidney beans or chickpeas (for added protein)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Vegetables:
- Wash and chop the cabbage, carrots, celery, bell pepper, and onion.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the onion and garlic, and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant and softened.
3. Cook the Vegetables:
- Add carrots, celery, and bell pepper to the pot.
- Sauté for another 5 minutes until slightly tender.
4. Add the Cabbage and Tomatoes:
- Stir in the chopped cabbage and diced tomatoes (including the juice).
- Add tomato paste if you like a richer flavor.
5. Add Broth and Seasonings:
- Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and water.
- Add paprika, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and the bay leaf.
- Stir well to combine.
6. Simmer the Soup:
- Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for 30-40 minutes until the cabbage is tender.
- Add cooked chicken, beef, or beans if using, and cook for another 5 minutes.
7. Adjust Seasoning:
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve hot with a slice of crusty bread or a dollop of sour cream on top.
- Garnish with fresh parsley for extra flavor.
1. Beef Cabbage Soup:
- Add 250 g (1/2 lb) of ground beef or stew meat, browned and drained, to the soup.
- Use beef broth instead of vegetable broth for a richer, heartier flavor.
🍗 2. Chicken Cabbage Soup:
- Add shredded cooked chicken or diced chicken breast for extra protein.
- Use chicken broth and add a touch of lemon juice for freshness.
🌿 3. Vegan Cabbage Soup:
- Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth and add a can of white beans or chickpeas for protein.
- Include more veggies like zucchini, spinach, or kale for added nutrition.
🌶️ 4. Spicy Cabbage Soup:
- Add 1-2 teaspoons of chili powder or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Include diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for extra heat.
🍅 5. Tomato Cabbage Soup:
- Add a can of tomato sauce or tomato paste for a more tomato-forward flavor.
- Sprinkle some dried basil and oregano to enhance the taste.
🥔 6. Cabbage and Potato Soup:
- Dice 2-3 potatoes and add them to the soup for a heartier, more filling meal.
- Simmer until the potatoes are tender and creamy.
🫘 7. Lentil Cabbage Soup:
- Add 1 cup of lentils (brown or green) and cook until tender.
- This variation makes the soup even more filling and protein-rich.
Conclusion
Cabbage soup is a nutritious and low-calorie dish, often praised for its health benefits. It is rich in fiber, vitamins (like Vitamin C and K), and minerals, making it a good choice for weight loss or detox diets. The soup can be a comforting meal, easy to prepare, and customizable with various vegetables and seasonings. However, while it can be part of a balanced diet, it’s important to pair it with other nutrient-dense foods to ensure you’re getting a well-rounded intake of all necessary nutrients.
💡 Tips for All Variations:
- Adjust seasonings according to your taste and the variation you choose.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro to add a burst of color and flavor.
