Cabbage Soup Recipe
Introduction
There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of homemade soup, especially when the weather turns a bit brisk. This vegetable soup is not just easy to throw together; it’s also packed with nutrients and flavors that make your taste buds dance. On those chilly evenings, when you just want to curl up with a cozy blanket, you can count on this simple recipe to warm your heart and fill your belly. Plus, the ingredients are mostly pantry staples, so it’s perfect for those days you realize you’re out of a million things and need to use what’s on hand.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 6 cups vegetable broth
– 1 (14.5 ounces) can diced tomatoes with juice
– 3 cups cabbage, chopped (about 1/2 of a small head)
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– 2 cups spinach, chopped (optional)
– Juice of 1/2 lemon (optional)
Prep Time
Now, let’s talk prep time! You might need about 10 minutes to chop everything up—again, not a race! Take your time, maybe put on some tunes, and dance a little while you chop. Who says the kitchen can’t double as a mini concert hall?
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cooking this lovely soup takes about 30 minutes, but it’s really worth the wait as those flavors meld together. So you’re looking at around 40 minutes total if you include prep. This recipe yields about 6 servings, which is great! Leftovers for lunch tomorrow? Yes, please!
Let’s get cooking! Start by heating that olive oil in a big pot over medium heat, and watch it shimmer. Toss in your chopped onion, and give it a good 5 minutes of love until it’s softened. Then, add the aromatic minced garlic—ah, the smell starts to fill the air!
Next, pour in the vegetable broth and the can of diced tomatoes (juices and all—don’t waste those!). It’s like a flavor party in there! Stir it all together, then add your heartiest veggies: cabbage, carrots, and celery. Sprinkle in the spices, and let it come to a boil.
Once it’s bubbling away, lower the heat, cover it up, and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes. Oh, the anticipation! If you feel fancy, toss in some spinach for a pop of green toward the end.
And before you serve, squeeze in that lemon juice for a lovely brightness. Just adjust the seasoning if you think it needs a little extra love. Grab a warm bowl, maybe a crusty piece of bread, and dig in!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
1. Heat the Olive Oil
Begin by taking a large pot and placing it on your stove over medium heat. Pour in the tablespoon of olive oil and let it warm up for a minute. You want it hot enough so that when you add the onion, it sizzles a bit.
2. Sauté the Onion
Add the chopped onion to the pot. Stir it occasionally and let it cook for about 5 minutes. You’re looking for it to become soft and translucent, which should fill your kitchen with a lovely aroma. Keep an eye on it—no one likes burnt onion!
3. Add the Garlic
Now toss in the minced garlic and give it a good stir. Let it sauté for another 1-2 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the garlic starts smelling heavenly—just don’t let it turn brown, or it’ll get bitter.
4. Pour in the Broth and Tomatoes
Next up, pour in the vegetable broth. Then, grab that can of diced tomatoes, open it up, and toss the whole thing—juice included—into the pot. Give everything a nice stir to combine.
5. Add the Veggies and Seasonings
Now it’s time to spice things up! Add in the chopped cabbage, carrots, and celery. Sprinkle the oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and the red pepper flakes if you’re feeling a little adventurous. Stir that big colorful mix together.
6. Bring it to a Boil
Turn up the heat and bring the soup to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 25-30 minutes. This is where the magic happens—the veggies will become wonderfully tender.
7. Add Spinach (Optional)
If you’re adding spinach, now’s the time. Toss it in and let it cook for about 2-3 minutes until it wilts down. It’ll look vibrant and beautiful!
8. Stir in Lemon Juice
For that burst of freshness, squeeze the juice of half a lemon into the soup just before serving. It’ll lighten up the flavors beautifully—trust me, this step is worth it.
9. Adjust and Serve
Give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Then, ladle the soup into bowls and serve it hot. Enjoy the warmth and comfort along with the satisfaction of a delicious homemade meal!
Notes
Storage
This soup can last in the fridge for up to 5 days. Just store it in an airtight container for best results!
Customization
Feel free to switch up the vegetables based on what you have on hand. Zucchini or bell peppers can be great additions.
Freezing
Need to save some for later? This soup freezes beautifully! Just make sure to let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers.
Spice Levels
If you enjoy a bit more heat, consider increasing the red pepper flakes. You can always serve hot sauce on the side for those who like it extra spicy!
Serving Suggestions
Pair it with some crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. Your family and friends will love it!
Cook techniques
Sautéing Aromatics
Start by warming up the olive oil over medium heat. This isn’t just heating oil; this step sets the flavor foundation. Toss in your chopped onions and let them sweat gently until they’re soft and just starting to turn translucent—about 5 minutes. It’s a slow dance, so don’t rush it or crank up the heat. Too hot and you end up with burnt edges instead of that sweet, caramelized yum. Then add your minced garlic, and sauté just long enough—1 to 2 minutes—so it releases its fragrance without turning bitter or crispy. Garlic cooks fast, so keep your eyes peeled; this moment can be a tiny kitchen drama.
Simmering Soup
Once the broth, tomatoes, and vegetables join the pot, bring everything up to a full boil—yes, that bubbly grand entrance. But then you slow things down to a gentle simmer, cover it up, and let the veggies soften over 25 to 30 minutes. Stir occasionally because even the gentlest simmer can get clingy, and nobody likes bottom-layer burnt bits. This stage is where all those flavors get cozy and start gossiping with each other in the pot. Be patient here; it’s the magic simmer that makes your soup soul-satisfying.
Adding Delicate Greens Late
Spinach is like the diva of greens—it wilts faster than you can say “oops.” So, toss it in just a few minutes before turning off the heat, maybe 2 to 3 minutes. It softens into that vibrant, tender goodness without losing its color or nutrients. If you add it too early, spinach disappears into soup mush, and that’s just sad.
Brightening with Lemon Juice
A quick squirt of lemon juice right before serving? Game changer. It wakes up the whole pot with a fresh zip, balancing all those warm, comforting flavors with a little tang. If you forget this step, don’t panic! The soup’s still good but that “bright” feeling? Oh, it’s worth it.
FAQ
Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?
Absolutely! Chicken broth will add a richer, deeper flavor. Just know it changes the soup’s vibe from vegetarian to meat-based. If you’re cooking for friends or family who prefer veggies only, better stick to veggie broth.
What if I don’t have fresh garlic? Can I use garlic powder?
Yes, but fresh garlic really brings that vibrant punch. If you use garlic powder, sprinkle it in gradually with the herbs and adjust to taste because powder can get strong fast and sometimes a bit bitter. Also, garlic powder won’t sauté the same way; it just mellows into the broth.
My cabbage takes forever to cook. How can I speed it up?
Cabbage does take its sweet time to soften! If you’re in a rush, chop it into smaller pieces—tiny bites cook quicker. Or add it a little earlier than the recipe calls for. Just keep an eye so it doesn’t turn mushy.
What if I want a spicier soup?
Add more red pepper flakes or toss in a pinch of cayenne if you like the heat turned up. But be cautious—spices can sneak up on you. Start small, taste as you go, and add more if you want to feel that little fire dance on your tongue.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
For sure! In fact, flavors often deepen overnight. Just store it in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water, since soups can thicken up in the fridge. Just remember, spinach is best added fresh when reheating so it stays nice and green.
Conclusion
This comforting vegetable soup is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that makes for a perfect meal any day of the week. With a medley of fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs, this soup not only warms you up but also nourishes your body. The addition of spinach and a splash of lemon juice elevate this dish, giving it a vibrant touch. Remember, this recipe is highly customizable—feel free to tweak and adjust based on what’s in your fridge or what your taste buds desire. A humble reminder that cooking is not just about following a recipe to the letter; it’s about enjoying the process and adding a bit of your personality to every dish.
Chickpea and Spinach Stew
For a protein-packed twist, try adding chickpeas and spinach to your vegetable soup. The chickpeas will lend a hearty texture, while the spinach adds nutritional value and boosts the flavor profile. Serve it over rice or with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Quinoa and Vegetable Medley
Swap out the noodles or rice in your meals for quinoa. This nutty grain brings a wholesome touch and pairs deliciously with any veggies you have on hand. A sprinkle of your favorite cheese right at the end can create a rich, creamy texture.
Roasted Garlic and Potato Soup
If you’re looking for something richer, try blending roasted garlic and potatoes into your base. This brings a creamy consistency without any dairy. Just remember to keep those air fresheners handy after roasting garlic!
Classic Tomato Basil Soup
Combine your diced tomatoes with fresh basil for a classic take on tomato soup. This is perfect to pair with a grilled cheese sandwich—because honestly, who can say no to that childhood combo?
Spicy Taco Soup
Add some ground turkey or beef to your vegetable soup along with taco seasoning for a Mexican-inspired flavor profile. Top it with avocado and cheese for an irresistible finish. This will make your kitchen smell like a taco truck on a Friday night!
Vegetable and Lentil Chili
For a heartier option, toss in some lentils and chili spices—think cumin, chili powder, and maybe a hint of cocoa powder for depth. This helps create a filling dish that’s perfect for a chilly evening.
Stir-Fried Veggie Wraps
Take your leftover soup and sauté your favorite wrap-fillings with it. You can easily wrap it in a tortilla or lettuce leaves for a fresh take. Top it with a dollop of yogurt sauce for that extra zing!
Cooking doesn’t have to be perfect; it’s meant to be fun and a bit messy at times! Make these recipes your own, and enjoy every spontaneous moment in the kitchen.
