Cabbage soup is a comforting, hearty, and nutritious dish that has won the hearts of vegetarians and soup lovers alike. This best cabbage soup recipe vegetarian version is packed with vibrant vegetables, aromatic herbs, and warming spices, making it a perfect meal for chilly evenings or anytime you crave something light yet fulfilling.
Not only is it easy on the wallet, but it also supports a healthy lifestyle with its fiber-rich ingredients and low-calorie content. Whether you are a seasoned vegetarian or trying to eat more plant-based meals, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.
In this blog post, I’ll guide you through every step to make this soup bursting with flavor and nutrition. Plus, with some helpful tips and variations, you can customize it to your liking.
Ready to dive into the delicious world of cabbage soup? Let’s get cooking!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This cabbage soup is a winner for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly versatile and customizable, so you can easily swap or add vegetables based on what you have on hand.
The soup is naturally vegetarian and vegan, making it inclusive for all dietary preferences.
It’s also a one-pot wonder, which means minimal cleanup and maximum convenience. The broth is flavorful and fragrant, thanks to fresh herbs and a well-balanced blend of spices.
Plus, it’s low in calories but high in fiber, which means it’s filling without being heavy.
Whether you want a quick weekday meal or a make-ahead option for busy days, this cabbage soup fits the bill perfectly. It pairs wonderfully with many dishes and is ideal for meal prep.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 large carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
Equipment
- Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
- Sharp chef’s knife
- Cutting board
- Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Ladle for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Wash and chop the cabbage, dice the onion, slice the carrots, chop celery, dice red bell pepper, and zucchini, and mince the garlic.
- Heat the olive oil: Place the large pot over medium heat and add olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
- Add garlic and vegetables: Stir in the minced garlic, carrots, celery, red bell pepper, and zucchini. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to soften the vegetables.
- Add cabbage and spices: Add the chopped cabbage to the pot along with dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and bay leaf. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Pour in the liquids: Add the diced tomatoes with their juices and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir everything together and bring to a gentle boil over high heat.
- Simmer the soup: Once boiling, reduce heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the cabbage and other vegetables are tender but not mushy.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust salt, pepper, or add red pepper flakes if you want a bit of heat. Remove the bay leaf.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Enjoy hot!
Tips & Variations
“The secret to a deeply flavorful cabbage soup lies in slow simmering and fresh herbs.”
- Make it heartier: Add cooked beans or lentils in the last 10 minutes of cooking for extra protein and texture.
- Spice it up: Include cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to turn up the heat.
- Use different cabbages: Try savoy or red cabbage for a slightly different flavor and color.
- Blend it smooth: For a creamy texture, use an immersion blender to puree part or all of the soup.
- Freeze leftovers: This soup freezes beautifully. Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1.5 cups) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 125 |
| Protein | 4g |
| Carbohydrates | 22g |
| Fiber | 7g |
| Fat | 4g |
| Sodium | 720mg |
| Vitamin C | 60% DV |
| Iron | 10% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This cabbage soup shines as a standalone meal, but pairing it with some crusty whole grain bread or a fresh green salad will elevate your dining experience. For a protein boost, consider serving it alongside a simple quinoa pilaf or a grilled veggie sandwich.
To complement the flavors, a light white wine or herbal iced tea works beautifully. For more vegetarian inspiration, check out our Kosher Sushi Salad Recipe or the warming Kale Tonic First Watch Recipe.
Conclusion
In summary, this best cabbage soup recipe vegetarian is a delightful blend of wholesome vegetables, aromatic herbs, and simple cooking techniques that come together to create a dish that’s both nourishing and satisfying.
It’s a fantastic option for those seeking easy, healthy meals that don’t compromise on flavor or comfort. Whether you’re looking to warm up on a cold day or want a nutrient-dense dish to add to your weekly rotation, this cabbage soup delivers every time.
Don’t forget to experiment with the variations and make the recipe your own. If you enjoyed this recipe, you might also love the hearty flavors in our Jamaican Minced Beef Recipes or the comforting baked goods like the Marzipan Challah Recipe.
Happy cooking and savor every spoonful!
📖 Recipe Card: Best Cabbage Soup Recipe Vegetarian
Description: A hearty and flavorful vegetarian cabbage soup packed with fresh vegetables and herbs. Perfect for a healthy, comforting meal any day of the week.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT40M
Total Time: PT55M
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium head green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic; sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add carrots and celery; cook for another 5 minutes.
- Stir in chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, thyme, and smoked paprika.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add spinach leaves and cook for 5 more minutes until wilted.
- Serve hot.
Nutrition: Calories: 150 kcal | Protein: 5 g | Fat: 5 g | Carbs: 22 g
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