Cabbage Soup is a hearty and nutritious dish that's easy to make, budget-friendly, and packed with flavor. It’s a classic comfort food that’s great for chilly days or when you need something light yet filling. This recipe brings out the natural sweetness of the cabbage while balancing it with savory vegetables and spices. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner and can be adapted to suit any dietary needs.
Sauté the vegetables. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are softened and translucent.
Add garlic. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Add cabbage. Add the chopped cabbage to the pot and stir well to combine with the vegetables. Cook for 5 minutes, allowing the cabbage to wilt slightly.
Season the soup. Add thyme, paprika, and the bay leaf. Stir everything together to coat the vegetables with the seasoning.
Add broth and tomatoes. Pour in the vegetable broth and add the diced tomatoes with their juice. Stir to combine, and bring the soup to a boil.
Simmer the soup. Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well blended.
Adjust seasoning. Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed.
Serve. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy your warm and comforting cabbage soup!
For a richer flavor, you can add smoked paprika or a pinch of cumin. For extra protein, consider adding white beans, cooked chicken, or sausage slices. Add diced potatoes or rice for a more filling version of the soup. This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months.