Simple, healthy, and deeply satisfying, this Detox Cabbage Vegetable Soup is the perfect choice when you’re craving something warm, flavorful, and full of nutrients. It’s loaded with fiber-rich veggies like cabbage, potatoes, celery, and bell pepper—making it a wonderful option for those looking to reset, reduce inflammation, or simply eat clean. With a light broth and gentle seasoning, this soup is as healing for the body as it is comforting for the soul.
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Healthy / Clean Eating / Vegetarian
Ingredients
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Potatoes: 2, peeled and diced
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Carrot: 1, peeled and diced
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Onion: 1, chopped
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Bell Pepper: 1, chopped
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Cabbage: ½ head, shredded
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Celery Stalks: 2, chopped
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Dried Basil: 1 teaspoon
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Salt: To taste
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Fresh Parsley: Chopped, for garnish
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Water: About 6 cups, enough to cover vegetables
Step-by-Step Cooking Directions
Boil and Simmer
In a large soup pot, bring about 6 cups of water to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, add the potatoes, carrot, onion, bell pepper, cabbage, and celery.
This medley of fresh vegetables forms a vibrant, colorful, and hearty base. Cabbage adds depth, while potatoes and carrots bring subtle sweetness.
Season and Simmer
Add 1 teaspoon dried basil and salt to taste. Stir to combine. Reduce heat to low and allow the soup to simmer gently for 20–25 minutes, uncovered.
The vegetables will slowly release their flavors into the broth, creating a nourishing and savory soup. Simmering also helps retain the nutrients while making the veggies tender and comforting.
Taste and Adjust
Taste the broth and adjust the salt or herbs if needed. If you enjoy a spicier or bolder flavor, add black pepper, chili flakes, or a squeeze of lemon juice.
Tasting and adjusting allows you to personalize the soup’s flavor to your liking. A balanced broth is key to a truly satisfying meal.
Serve and Savor
Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with a generous sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley.
The parsley adds freshness, color, and a delicate peppery flavor that enhances the soup’s simplicity.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx. 6 servings)
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Calories: 95
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Fat: 1g
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Saturated Fat: 0g
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Carbohydrates: 20g
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Fiber: 4g
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Protein: 3g
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Sugar: 5g
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Sodium: 180mg
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Vitamin A: 60% DV
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Vitamin C: 80% DV
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Potassium: 400mg
The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe
Cabbage soup has deep roots in traditional cuisines across the world. It’s long been a staple in Eastern European, Asian, and Mediterranean diets—particularly for its affordability, versatility, and nutritional value. Over the years, the popularity of detox cabbage soup surged due to its association with cleansing diets and “soup detox plans.”
Though often associated with weight loss, this soup’s popularity today has evolved into something more wholesome: a go-to option for gut health, immune support, and overall well-being. It’s simple, customizable, and beloved by wellness enthusiasts and home cooks alike.
Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe
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Clean and Wholesome: No added sugars, preservatives, or processed ingredients
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Naturally Vegan and Gluten-Free: Perfect for a wide range of diets
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Low Calorie, High Fiber: Helps you feel full without heaviness
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Budget-Friendly: Uses basic, affordable produce
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Hydrating and Nourishing: Water-based broth supports hydration and detox
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One-Pot Wonder: Easy cleanup, simple steps
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Meal-Prep Friendly: Store and enjoy throughout the week
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Customizable: Add grains, beans, or herbs to suit your tastes
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Perfect Any Season: Light enough for spring, warm enough for winter
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Family-Friendly: Mild, veggie-forward flavor that even kids can enjoy
Health Benefits
This detox soup is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it an ideal recipe for those focused on health.
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Cabbage: High in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants; supports digestion and detox
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Carrot: Rich in beta-carotene and vitamin A for skin and eye health
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Celery: Naturally hydrating, supports blood pressure regulation
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Potato: Provides potassium and natural energy from complex carbs
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Onion & Bell Pepper: Boost flavor and immunity with essential phytonutrients
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Dried Basil: Contains anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties
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Parsley: A natural diuretic and rich source of vitamin K and folate
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Water-Based: Helps flush out toxins and hydrate the body
This soup is often used as part of clean-eating resets, post-holiday recovery, or simply to balance out heavier meals throughout the week.
Serving Suggestions
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With Whole Grain Bread: Serve with a slice of toasted multigrain or sourdough
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Add a Side Salad: Pair with a leafy green salad for a complete meal
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Top with Yogurt: A dollop of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and protein
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With Beans or Lentils: Stir in cooked beans for extra heartiness
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Add a Poached Egg: Turn it into a more protein-packed meal
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Sprinkle Nutritional Yeast: For a cheesy, savory flavor
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Add a Dash of Lemon Juice: Brightens and enhances the broth
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Garnish with Chili Flakes: Adds heat and depth for spice lovers
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Blend for Creamy Texture: Blend half the soup for a smooth, velvety consistency
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Serve Cold: It also tastes great chilled in warmer months
Cooking Tips
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Cut Veggies Evenly: Helps them cook uniformly and look more appealing
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Don’t Overcook the Cabbage: It should be soft but still slightly crisp
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Layer the Flavors: Sauté onions before boiling for added depth
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Use Broth for More Flavor: Swap water for vegetable broth for a richer soup
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Double the Recipe: Great for freezing and meal prepping
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Keep It Covered: Simmering with a lid retains nutrients and moisture
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Stir Occasionally: Prevents veggies from sticking to the bottom
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Add Greens Last: Stir in spinach or kale in the last 5 minutes for color and nutrients
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Cool Before Storing: Helps retain texture and flavor during refrigeration
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Use Fresh Herbs: Add parsley, dill, or thyme just before serving for brightness
Variations to Try
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Spicy Detox Soup: Add cayenne, turmeric, or a dash of curry powder
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Asian-Inspired Version: Include ginger, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil
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Tomato-Based Broth: Add canned diced tomatoes for a more robust soup
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Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of coconut milk or cashew cream
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Hearty Grain Soup: Add quinoa, brown rice, or barley
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Protein Boost: Add tofu, shredded chicken, or tempeh
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Root Vegetable Twist: Add sweet potatoes, parsnips, or turnips
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Italian-Inspired: Stir in crushed tomatoes and Italian seasoning
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Green Goodness: Add spinach, kale, or Swiss chard
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Herbaceous Touch: Try rosemary, thyme, or bay leaf while simmering
Conclusion
This Detox Cabbage Vegetable Soup is more than just a light meal—it’s a way to reset, recharge, and nourish your body with clean, wholesome ingredients. With its rich flavor, beautiful colors, and endless customization options, it’s a go-to recipe for anyone looking to eat better without sacrificing taste.
Whether you’re embracing a healthier lifestyle, looking for a gentle detox, or just craving a soul-warming bowl of veggie-packed goodness, this soup checks every box. Make a big batch and enjoy the ease of healthy eating all week long.
FAQ
1. Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes! It stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days and tastes even better the next day.
2. Can I freeze this soup?
Absolutely. Let it cool completely, portion into containers, and freeze for up to 3 months.
3. What’s the best way to reheat it?
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot. Stir well before serving.
4. Can I use broth instead of water?
Yes, vegetable broth or chicken broth adds more flavor.
5. Is this soup suitable for weight loss?
Yes! It’s low in calories, high in fiber, and very filling—perfect for light meals.
6. Can I blend this soup?
You can! Blend it fully for a creamy texture, or blend half for a chunky-creamy consistency.
7. What other herbs can I use?
Try thyme, rosemary, or dill for different flavor profiles.
8. How do I add more protein?
Add chickpeas, white beans, lentils, or a poached egg on top.
9. Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free as written.
10. Can I add tomatoes or other acidic ingredients?
Yes, diced tomatoes or a squeeze of lemon adds brightness and flavor.