Ingredients

• 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juice
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Optional: fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

1. Chop the Vegetables: Begin by preparing your vegetables. Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces, dice the onion, slice the carrots, and chop the celery. Mince the garlic as well. Having all your ingredients prepped and ready to go will make the cooking process much smoother.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

2. Heat the Olive Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Allow the oil to warm for about a minute.
3. Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté for 3-4 minutes, or until it becomes translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

4. Incorporate Carrots and Celery: Add the sliced carrots and chopped celery to the pot. Sauté the mixture for another 5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly and release their flavors.
5. Add Cabbage: Stir in the chopped cabbage and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until it begins to wilt.

Step 4: Create the Soup Base

6. Pour in the Broth and Tomatoes: Add 4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth to the pot along with the can of diced tomatoes (including the juice). Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
7. Season the Soup: Sprinkle in the dried thyme and dried oregano, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

8. Reduce Heat and Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together and the vegetables to become tender.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust

9. Taste the Soup: After 30 minutes, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or herbs depending on your preference.

Step 7: Serve

10. Garnish and Serve: Once the soup is finished cooking, ladle it into bowls. If desired, garnish each bowl with fresh parsley for a pop of color and added flavor. Enjoy your hearty cabbage soup warm!

Nutrition Facts

(Estimated per serving, based on 6 servings):

• Calories: 120
• Total Fat: 4g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Cholesterol: 0mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 18g
• Dietary Fiber: 4g
• Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 4g

Note: Nutrition values may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I add meat to the soup?
   • Absolutely! You can enhance the flavor and protein content by adding cooked sausage, chicken, or ground beef. Just sauté the meat along with the onion before adding the other vegetables.
2. Can I use frozen vegetables?
   • Yes, frozen vegetables can be used in place of fresh. They can be added directly to the pot without thawing, but be aware that they may release more water, slightly altering the soup’s consistency.
3. Is this soup gluten-free?
   • Yes, this cabbage soup is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free broth. Always check labels to confirm.
4. How long does the soup last in the fridge?
   • The cabbage soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
5. Can I freeze cabbage soup?
   • Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers. It will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Tips for Making the Best Cabbage Soup

1. Customize the Vegetables: Feel free to add any other vegetables you have on hand, such as potatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers. The more, the merrier!
2. Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs such as basil, rosemary, or even a bay leaf for added flavor. Fresh herbs can be added at the end for a fresh taste.
3. Enhance Flavor: A splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving can brighten up the flavors of the soup.
4. Texture Preference: If you prefer a smoother texture, you can use an immersion blender to puree part of the soup after cooking.
5. Make it Spicy: If you enjoy heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.

Storage Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat thoroughly before consuming.
• Freezing: To freeze, let the soup cool to room temperature, then pour it into freezer-safe containers. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, you can thaw overnight in the refrigerator or use the microwave. If reheating from frozen, allow it to thaw slightly before heating on the stovetop.

Conclusion

This Hearty Cabbage Soup is a fantastic addition to any meal plan, providing a healthy, comforting, and flavorful option. Perfect for meal prepping, it is not only budget-friendly but also packed with nutrients from a variety of vegetables. Whether you enjoy it as a main course or as a side dish, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table.

With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can whip up a pot of this delicious cabbage soup any day of the week. Plus, it’s a great way to use up any leftover vegetables you may have on hand. Gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a warm, hearty bowl of homemade cabbage soup that nourishes the body and soul. Happy cooking!