Vegetarian Cabbage Stew Recipe for a Hearty, Healthy Meal

There’s something truly comforting about a warm, hearty bowl of stew, especially when it’s packed with vibrant vegetables and wholesome flavors. Our vegetarian cabbage stew recipe is a delicious, nutritious option that’s perfect for cozy dinners, chilly evenings, or anytime you crave a satisfying, plant-based meal.

Cabbage, often overlooked, shines in this stew with its tender texture and subtle sweetness, mingling beautifully with other garden-fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs.

This recipe is not only easy to make but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to adjust ingredients based on what’s in season or in your pantry. Whether you’re a seasoned vegetarian or just looking to add more veggie-centric dishes to your menu, this stew will quickly become a favorite.

Plus, it’s ideal for meal prep and tastes even better the next day. Ready to dive into a bowl of wholesome goodness?

Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Vegetarian cabbage stew is a fantastic dish for many reasons. First, it’s loaded with nutrients from fresh vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and potatoes, making it a healthful choice that supports your immune system and digestion.

The stew is naturally low in fat and calories but high in fiber, helping you feel full and satisfied without heaviness.

Moreover, this recipe is incredibly adaptable — you can swap or add your favorite vegetables, toss in beans or lentils for extra protein, and experiment with different herbs and spices to suit your taste.

It’s also budget-friendly and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend cooking.

Finally, its rich, comforting flavors and delightful textures will make even the most skeptical eaters ask for seconds. If you love hearty soups and stews, you’ll definitely want to try this one!

Ingredients

• 1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
• 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
• 6 cups vegetable broth (low sodium preferred)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 bay leaf
• Optional: 1 cup cooked white beans or lentils for added protein
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Ladle (for serving)
• Optional: Blender or immersion blender (if you prefer a smoother stew)

Instructions

1. Prepare your vegetables: Wash and chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Peel and slice the carrots, dice the potatoes, finely chop the onion, and mince the garlic.
2. Heat the olive oil: Place the pot over medium heat and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
3. Add garlic and spices: Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and oregano. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Add the vegetables: Toss in the chopped cabbage, carrots, and potatoes. Stir well to coat the vegetables with the spices and oil.
5. Add tomatoes and broth: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes with their juices and the vegetable broth. Add the bay leaf and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together.
6. Simmer the stew: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer gently for 30-40 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
7. Add optional beans/lentils: If using cooked white beans or lentils, stir them in during the last 10 minutes of cooking to heat through.
8. Adjust seasoning: Taste the stew and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
9. Serve warm: Ladle the stew into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a bright, fresh finish.

Tips & Variations

“To deepen the flavor, try roasting the cabbage and carrots before adding them to the stew.”

For a smoky twist, add a touch of liquid smoke or smoked paprika. You can also swap the green cabbage for savoy or red cabbage for a different texture and color.

If you prefer a thicker stew, mash some of the potatoes directly in the pot or blend a portion of the stew with an immersion blender. For extra protein, chickpeas or kidney beans are excellent substitutes for white beans or lentils.

To add richness, try stirring in a dollop of vegan bechamel sauce just before serving. For a Mediterranean flair, throw in olives and fresh oregano.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This vegetarian cabbage stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a warm, soft loaf. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a fresh green salad or a scoop of steamed quinoa or brown rice to soak up the flavorful broth.

You can also enjoy it as a filling for baked potatoes or as a topping for polenta. For those who love a bit of spice, a drizzle of hot sauce or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes adds a nice kick.

If you’re looking for more cozy vegetarian meal ideas, check out our Veg Recipes for Slow Cooker: Easy, Tasty Meal Ideas or explore delicious baked goods to accompany your stew with our Vegan Bread Machine Recipe for Soft, Delicious Loaves.

Conclusion

This vegetarian cabbage stew is a perfect blend of nutrition, flavor, and comfort that’s easy to prepare and adapt to your preferences. Its wholesome ingredients and rich broth make it a satisfying meal for any day of the week.

Whether you’re a vegetarian or simply wanting to add more vegetables to your diet, this stew offers both taste and wellness in each spoonful.

As you savor this delicious dish, remember it’s also a wonderful way to use up seasonal produce and reduce food waste. Try experimenting with different herbs and vegetables to make it uniquely yours.

For more inspiring vegetarian recipes, don’t miss our Vegetarian Date Cake Recipe: Moist, Easy, and Delicious for dessert after your stew!

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