Vegetarian Cabbage Soup Recipe for Easy Healthy Meals

Cabbage soup is a comforting, nutritious, and incredibly versatile dish that has been a staple in vegetarian kitchens around the world for decades. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a hearty dinner, or a detox-friendly meal, this vegetarian cabbage soup recipe fits the bill perfectly.

Packed with vibrant vegetables and warming spices, this soup is not only easy to prepare but also budget-friendly and great for meal prep.

In this recipe, we’ll guide you through making a flavorful, wholesome cabbage soup that highlights the natural sweetness of fresh cabbage, balanced with aromatic herbs and a touch of savory goodness. Perfect for chilly days or whenever you crave something simple yet satisfying, this soup will become a go-to comfort food in your kitchen.

Plus, it’s vegan and gluten-free, making it suitable for a wide range of dietary preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetarian cabbage soup is a delightful blend of health and taste. It’s low in calories but high in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants thanks to the fresh vegetables.

The soup is very easy to customize with your favorite herbs or extra veggies, making it an excellent choice for a flexible, wholesome meal.

Additionally, it’s a one-pot wonder that saves you time on cleanup. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cook, you’ll appreciate how straightforward the steps are.

It’s also great for batch cooking – perfect for busy weekdays when you want a nourishing meal without fuss.

Don’t forget to explore other delicious recipes on our site like Low Calorie Vegetable Soup Recipe for Healthy Eating and Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas for more wholesome soup options!

Ingredients

• 1 small head of green cabbage (about 1.5 pounds), chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
• 6 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 1 bay leaf
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula
• Measuring spoons
• Measuring cup
• Ladle for serving
• Optional: Immersion blender (for creamier texture)

Instructions

1. Prepare the vegetables. Start by washing and chopping the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, slice the carrots, and chop the celery. Having all your veggies prepped makes the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.
2. Heat olive oil. Place your large pot or Dutch oven on medium heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until translucent and fragrant.
3. Add garlic and veggies. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more, being careful not to burn it. Then add the sliced carrots and chopped celery. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies start to soften.
4. Add cabbage and spices. Incorporate the chopped cabbage into the pot. Stir in the dried thyme, smoked paprika, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Mix everything well to coat the vegetables with the spices.
5. Pour in liquids. Add the canned diced tomatoes with their juice and the 6 cups of vegetable broth. Toss in the bay leaf for added aroma. Bring the soup to a boil over high heat.
6. Simmer gently. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until all vegetables are tender and flavors meld beautifully.
7. Adjust seasoning and serve. Remove the bay leaf. Taste the soup and add more salt or pepper if needed. For a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup, or leave it chunky as is. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Tips & Variations

“For a heartier meal, add cooked beans or lentils to the soup during the last 10 minutes of cooking.”

To switch things up, try adding other vegetables like potatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers. A splash of lemon juice or a teaspoon of apple cider vinegar stirred in at the end brightens the flavors wonderfully.

If you enjoy spicy food, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when sautéing the onions. For a creamy twist without dairy, stir in some coconut milk or cashew cream just before serving.

Want to keep it super simple? Use frozen mixed vegetables along with cabbage for a quick shortcut.

Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a warm whole-grain roll to soak up every last drop. For a more filling meal, serve it alongside a fresh green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette.

If you’re looking for complementary recipes, check out our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves or try a light side like the Lipton Vegetable Dip Recipe: Easy Party Favorite for dipping raw veggies.

For a more indulgent option, drizzle some vegan sour cream or cashew cream on top of the soup just before serving—this adds a lovely creamy texture and tang.

Conclusion

This vegetarian cabbage soup recipe is a wonderful example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a deeply satisfying meal. Its nourishing qualities make it perfect for those seeking a healthy lifestyle without compromising on flavor.

The balance of tender cabbage, carrots, and aromatic spices ensures every spoonful is full of comforting warmth and vibrant taste.

Whether you make it as a quick weekday dinner or a soothing weekend lunch, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your recipe collection. Don’t hesitate to experiment with additions or pair it with other dishes to create a wholesome, balanced meal.

For more delicious vegetarian recipes, explore our collection including Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious for a sweet treat or Vegetarian Swiss Chard Recipes for Healthy Meals to enjoy seasonal greens.

Happy cooking and savor every bowl!

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