Hearty Vegetable Cabbage Soup

When the weather cools down or you just need a nourishing pick-me-up, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of Hearty Vegetable Cabbage Soup. Packed with colorful vegetables, light yet satisfying, and naturally low in calories, this soup is as comforting as it is good for you. Perfect as a cozy dinner, a light lunch, or a make-ahead meal, this cabbage soup is a must-have in your healthy recipe rotation.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Healthy comfort food / Plant-based

Ingredients

• Onion: 1, chopped

• Olive Oil: 2 tablespoons

• Carrot: 1, grated

• Celery Stalks: 3, chopped

• Red Pepper: 1, sliced

• Tomato: 1, diced

• Cabbage: ½ head, chopped

• Water: Enough to cover the vegetables (about 6–8 cups)

• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste

Step-by-Step Cooking Directions

Sauté the Base Vegetables

Start building your soup’s flavor from the bottom up with the aromatic base.

In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened and translucent. This sets the flavor foundation for the entire soup.

Add Carrot and Celery

Add the grated carrot and chopped celery to the pot. Stir and cook for another 4–5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and release their aroma.

These two vegetables add sweetness and balance to the broth, enhancing the soup’s complexity without overpowering it.

Incorporate the Red Pepper and Tomato

Add the red pepper and diced tomato to the mix. Stir to combine and cook for 3 minutes.

The red pepper offers a subtle sweetness, while the tomato brings acidity and depth to the flavor.

Add the Cabbage

Now it’s time to introduce the star of the show—cabbage.

Add the chopped cabbage to the pot and stir well. Cook for 3 minutes to allow the cabbage to start softening and absorb the existing flavors in the pot.

Add Water and Simmer

Pour in enough water to cover all the vegetables. Typically, 6–8 cups will do the trick. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until all vegetables are tender and flavors are well combined.

Taste and Adjust

Taste the broth and adjust seasoning as needed. Add a bit more salt, pepper, or a pinch of herbs like thyme or parsley if desired.

Serve Warm

Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil for added richness, if desired.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – Approx. 6 servings)

• Calories: 90

• Fat: 5g

• Saturated Fat: 0.5g

• Carbohydrates: 10g

• Fiber: 3g

• Protein: 2g

• Sugar: 5g

• Sodium: 190mg

• Vitamin C: 70% DV

• Vitamin A: 50% DV

The Origins and Popularity of the Recipe

Cabbage soup has been a staple across many cultures, from Eastern Europe to Asia, known for its simplicity, affordability, and healing qualities. Whether it’s Russian shchi, Korean baechu-guk, or the popular “cabbage soup diet”, this dish has stood the test of time. The Western version of vegetable cabbage soup—light, broth-based, and packed with colorful veggies—has grown especially popular for those seeking a detox-friendly, low-calorie, or plant-based option that doesn’t compromise on comfort.

Thanks to its heartiness, low cost, and immune-boosting benefits, cabbage soup continues to trend in healthy cooking circles and meal-prep communities.

Reasons Why You’ll Love the Recipe

• Low in Calories, High in Nutrition: A great way to nourish your body without feeling heavy

• Simple Ingredients: Made with fridge and pantry staples

• Budget-Friendly: No expensive ingredients required

• Big Batch Friendly: Perfect for meal prep or feeding a crowd

• Comforting and Satisfying: Warm, flavorful, and naturally filling

• Naturally Vegan and Gluten-Free: Suits many dietary needs without substitutions

• Flexible Recipe: Easily adaptable with different veggies or spices

• Freezes Well: Great for make-ahead meals or busy weeks

• Great for Immune Support: Packed with vitamin-rich veggies

• Family-Friendly: Mild in flavor but easy to customize for more spice or heartiness

Health Benefits

Cabbage Soup is often praised for its detoxifying qualities and nourishing properties. Here’s what each ingredient brings to the table:

• Cabbage: High in fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants. Supports digestion and boosts immunity.

• Onion & Garlic: Natural anti-inflammatories that support heart health and immunity.

• Carrot: Rich in beta-carotene for skin and eye health.

• Celery: Aids hydration and provides natural sodium and potassium.

• Tomato: High in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant.

• Red Pepper: Loaded with vitamin C and A.

• Olive Oil: Provides healthy fats that improve absorption of nutrients.

• Water-Based: Helps with hydration and satiety without adding extra calories.

This soup is a gentle way to reset your system, load up on veggies, and feel energized without heaviness.

Serving Suggestions

• With Crusty Bread: Pair with toasted sourdough or garlic bread for a satisfying meal

• Add Protein: Serve with a boiled egg, beans, or cooked lentils for a protein boost

• As a Starter: A great appetizer for heavier mains

• Top with Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan or nutritional yeast adds umami

• With Rice or Quinoa: Stir in cooked grains for a more filling bowl

• Spice It Up: Serve with a dash of chili flakes, hot sauce, or jalapeños

• Fresh Herbs: Garnish with parsley, dill, or cilantro for a fresh finish

• Add a Drizzle: Try lemon juice or olive oil on top for brightness

• In a Thermos: Take it to work or school in a food flask

• Soup + Salad Combo: Pair with a light salad for a balanced meal

Cooking Tips

• Chop Vegetables Evenly: Ensures even cooking and better texture

• Don’t Overcook Cabbage: It should be tender but not mushy

• Taste as You Go: Adjust salt and pepper throughout for balance

• Use Homemade Broth: Substitute water with vegetable broth for more flavor

• Add Greens Late: Stir in spinach or kale during the last 5 minutes of cooking

• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and store in portioned containers

• Freeze Flat: Pour into freezer bags and lay flat for easy storage

• Cook Covered or Uncovered: Simmering uncovered allows flavors to concentrate

• For a Creamy Twist: Blend half the soup for a thick and creamy texture

• Double It Up: Easily doubled for larger families or meal prepping

Variations to Try

• Add Beans or Lentils: Cannellini beans, chickpeas, or red lentils for protein

• Spice Lovers’ Version: Add curry powder, cayenne pepper, or smoked paprika

• Chunky Style: Leave vegetables in larger pieces for a rustic look

• Asian-Inspired: Add ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil

• Creamy Cabbage Soup: Stir in a splash of plant-based cream or coconut milk

• Tomato-Rich: Add tomato paste or canned tomatoes for more body

• Use Broth Instead of Water: Veggie or chicken broth adds flavor depth

• Add Grains: Stir in cooked barley, rice, or quinoa for a one-bowl meal

• Include Zucchini or Spinach: Easy add-ins for more green goodness

• Top with Croutons: Add crunch with homemade or store-bought croutons

Conclusion

This Hearty Vegetable Cabbage Soup is a celebration of simple, nourishing ingredients that come together in a delicious, cozy bowl. It’s proof that comfort food doesn’t have to be heavy or complicated. With minimal effort, a big pot of this soup offers warmth, nutrition, and satisfaction for the whole family.

Perfect for any season, and adaptable to whatever you have in your fridge, this soup is sure to become a go-to staple in your kitchen. Make a batch today, and enjoy the balance of health and flavor in every spoonful.

FAQ

1. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes! It freezes beautifully. Let it cool, portion into containers, and freeze for up to 3 months.

2. Can I use vegetable broth instead of water?
Absolutely. It adds more flavor and depth to the soup.

3. How long does it last in the fridge?
Store in an airtight container for up to 4–5 days. Reheat as needed.

4. Can I blend the soup?
Yes. Blend partially or fully for a creamier texture. Use an immersion blender or standard blender.

5. Is this soup suitable for weight loss diets?
It’s very low in calories and high in fiber, making it ideal for healthy or weight-conscious eating.

6. What other vegetables can I add?
Zucchini, green beans, peas, spinach, or potatoes are great additions.

7. How do I make it heartier?
Add beans, lentils, rice, or shredded chicken for a more filling version.

8. Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
Yes. Add all ingredients to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

9. Is it spicy?
Not unless you add spice. Feel free to include chili flakes or hot sauce to heat it up.

10. What’s the best way to serve it?
Hot, with bread, fresh herbs, and your favorite toppings like lemon juice, yogurt, or cheese.