As I walked through the farmer’s market, the vibrant green hues of fresh cabbage caught my eye, beckoning me to create something heartwarming. This Cabbage Soup is my go-to recipe for anyone seeking a satisfying yet healthy meal, especially if you're looking for easy weight loss wins! With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, including rich broth, sweet tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, it’s a breeze to prepare. Plus, the delightful aroma while it simmers is the kind of comfort that home-cooking dreams are made of. Not only is this soup incredibly quick to whip up, making it perfect for weeknight dinners, but it also makes a fantastic meal prep option, giving you delicious leftovers for days. Are you ready to turn that humble cabbage into a deliciously nourishing bowl of goodness? Let’s dive in!
Why Choose Cabbage Soup for Weight Loss?
**Hearty, nutritious **: Packed with vitamins and nutrients, this Cabbage Soup is a powerhouse for weight loss.
Quick to prepare: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you'll have a nourishing meal ready in just 40 minutes.
Flavorful depth: The combination of fresh herbs, vibrant vegetables, and rich broth creates a taste that will surprise your palate.
Versatile options: Whether you prefer beef broth or a vegetarian version, you can easily customize this soup to fit your dietary needs.
Easy meal prep: Make a big batch and enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week, saving you time on busy nights.
This Cabbage Soup is not only satisfying but also great for keeping those pesky cravings at bay!
Cabbage Soup Ingredients
Curious about what's in this hearty dish?
For the Soup Base
- Beef broth or vegetable stock – for a rich flavor, choose beef broth, or substitute with vegetable stock for a lighter, vegetarian-friendly option.
- Olive oil – use this healthy fat to sauté vegetables and add depth of flavor.
- Tomato paste – a touch of tomato paste enhances the soup's richness and adds a hint of sweetness.
For the Vegetables
- Cabbage – the star of the show, it will wilt down beautifully and add nutrients to your Cabbage Soup.
- Yellow onions – these provide a sweet and savory base that enhances the overall flavor of the soup.
- Garlic – minced garlic infuses the soup with warmth and aromatic goodness.
- Celery – adding crunch and a slight earthiness to the dish, it complements the other vegetables.
- Tomatoes – fresh diced tomatoes bring brightness and a juicy texture to every spoonful.
- Bell peppers – colorful bell peppers not only add sweetness but also a vibrant touch to your soup.
For Seasoning
- Fresh thyme – this fragrant herb adds a layer of earthy flavor, making it perfect for a cozy bowl of Cabbage Soup.
- Salt – season to taste; it enhances all the other flavors in your dish.
- Pepper – freshly ground black pepper gives your soup that little kick it needs!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Cabbage Soup Diet: Hearty Recipe for Weight Loss Wins → Cabbage Soup
Step 1: Heat the Base
Begin by warming 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Allow the oil to shimmer, which should take about 1-2 minutes. This will create a perfect cooking environment for the vegetables, enhancing flavors as they begin to sauté.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add 2 diced medium yellow onions and 1 cup of diced bell peppers to the hot oil. Sauté these for 4-6 minutes until the onions turn translucent and the peppers soften, filling your kitchen with an inviting aroma. This step builds the flavorful foundation for your Cabbage Soup.
Step 3: Add Aromatics
Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon of fresh thyme, and season with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of black pepper. Next, mix in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste for added richness. Cook this mixture for another 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the garlic becomes fragrant and the ingredients meld together beautifully.
Step 4: Pour in the Broth
Carefully pour 4 cups of beef broth or vegetable stock into the pot, and raise the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil. This should take about 5 minutes. The broth will create a comforting base for your Cabbage Soup, helping all the flavors to unify.
Step 5: Incorporate the Cabbage
Once boiling, stir in the chopped head of cabbage, letting it wilt slightly in the broth. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 15-20 minutes. As the cabbage cooks, it will become tender and absorb the delicious, hearty flavors of the soup.
Step 6: Final Simmer
Allow the soup to simmer until the cabbage is tender, which will take another 5-10 minutes. Keep an eye on it as the vegetables soften and the soup thickens, creating a delightful texture that's perfect for a warming bowl of Cabbage Soup.
Step 7: Serve and Garnish
Remove the pot from the heat and taste for seasoning, adjusting with more salt or pepper if needed. Serve the soup hot, optionally garnishing each bowl with fresh herbs for a burst of color and flavor. Enjoy this hearty Cabbage Soup as a wholesome meal!
Cabbage Soup Variations to Delight
Feel free to make this Cabbage Soup your own with these unique twists and swaps that will elevate your meal!
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes while sautéing to introduce a delightful warmth that tantalizes your taste buds. This extra heat can transform a cozy soup into a hearty, spicy experience.
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Herb Boost: Swap fresh thyme for fresh rosemary or oregano for a different herbal dimension that enhances the overall flavor profile. Experimenting with herbs is a fun way to create new sensations in every bowl!
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Creamy Texture: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end of cooking for a luxurious, creamy soup that feels indulgent. Enjoy the rich, velvety finish as it wraps around the hearty cabbage and veggies!
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Protein Power: Add shredded chicken or canned beans to boost the protein content and create a more filling meal. This not only makes the soup heartier but also adds a satisfying texture that everyone will love.
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Vegetable Medley: Toss in any seasonal vegetables like zucchini, carrots, or spinach. These additions bring color and nutritional diversity, making every bite exciting and nutritious.
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Lemon Zest: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving adds a zesty brightness that lifts the flavors beautifully. The citrus infusion offers a refreshing twist that complements the earthy notes of the soup.
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Grain Goodness: Consider adding cooked quinoa or brown rice to the soup for an extra chewiness and fullness. This variation turns your bowl into a soul-warming delight that's perfect for lunches!
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Savory Smoked Flavor: Incorporate smoked paprika or a dash of Worcestershire sauce for an umami explosion that deepens the soup's complexity. The smoky undertones will leave everyone guessing and coming back for more!
What to Serve with Cabbage Soup?
As you dive into a bowl of this rich and hearty Cabbage Soup, let’s elevate your dining experience with perfect pairings that complement its comforting flavors.
- Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty loaf is perfect for soaking up every delicious drop of the soup. Dip and savor every bite!
- Mixed Green Salad: Light and refreshing, a vibrant salad balances the hearty soup, adding crisp textures and a burst of freshness.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The crispy, melty goodness of a grilled cheese provides a delightful contrast and makes for a classic, cozy combo.
- Steamed Vegetables: Lightly steamed carrots or broccoli offer an extra serving of nutrients while remaining deliciously simple alongside the soup.
- Quinoa Salad: Nutty quinoa mixed with fresh herbs and veggies adds a protein-packed side that enhances the meal's overall nutrition.
- Herb-Infused Rice: Fluffy rice seasoned with herbs serves as a hearty backdrop, making each spoonful of soup even more satisfying.
- Sangria: A glass of homemade sangria, with its fruity notes, perfectly complements the soup's savory depth and adds a festive touch.
- Apple Crisp: For a sweet finish, a warm apple crisp brings warmth and sweetness that'll linger on your palate long after the last bite.
Make Ahead Options
These Cabbage Soup preparations are fantastic for busy weeknights, allowing you to enjoy a hearty meal with less time spent in the kitchen. You can chop the vegetables and sauté them up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, you can prepare the entire soup up to 3 days ahead; just refrigerate it after cooking. When you’re ready to serve, reheat the soup gently on the stove and adjust seasoning as needed. This way, you'll still enjoy that comforting bowl of Cabbage Soup just as delicious as when it was first made, saving you valuable time without compromising on flavor!
How to Store and Freeze Cabbage Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to maintain flavor and texture.
Freezer: Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Thawing: To enjoy later, thaw the Cabbage Soup overnight in the fridge before reheating. Warm it on the stove until heated through.
Reheating: For best results, reheat on the stovetop rather than the microwave to prevent uneven heating and maintain its delicious flavor.
Expert Tips for Cabbage Soup
• Choose Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh cabbage and ripe tomatoes when making your Cabbage Soup; they enhance flavor and nutritional value.
• Avoid Overcooking: To keep the cabbage vibrant and prevent mushiness, simmer until just tender—about 15-20 minutes should suffice.
• Customize Your Broth: Experiment with homemade broth for richer flavor; store-bought is convenient but can be high in sodium. Opt for low-sodium versions for better control.
• Season Gradually: Always taste and adjust seasonings (salt and pepper) towards the end of cooking to avoid accidentally oversalting your soup.
• Make Ahead: This soup stores beautifully in the fridge for 4-5 days and freezes well, so double the batch for healthy, easy meals later!
Cabbage Soup Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the right cabbage for soup?
Absolutely! Look for a cabbage head that feels heavy for its size, with tightly packed leaves. The outer leaves should be crisp and vibrant green. Avoid anything with dark spots or blemishes, as these can affect the flavor and quality of your soup.
What’s the best way to store leftover cabbage soup?
Very simple! Store your leftover Cabbage Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When it’s time to reheat, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat to maintain the flavor and texture of the soup.
Can I freeze cabbage soup, and if so, how?
Absolutely! Allow your Cabbage Soup to cool completely. Then, transfer it into freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving a little space for expansion. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. Label the containers with the date so you can keep track! When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and then reheat on the stovetop for the best results.
What if my cabbage soup turns out too salty?
No worries! If your soup ends up too salty, you can balance it out by adding more ingredients. Try incorporating additional diced tomatoes or even a peeled potato to absorb some of the saltiness. Let it simmer for a few more minutes, and taste as you go.
Is this cabbage soup suitable for anyone with dietary restrictions?
Very much so! This Cabbage Soup can easily be adjusted for various diets. For a vegetarian option, simply use vegetable stock instead of beef broth. Additionally, check your tomato paste to ensure it’s free of allergens like gluten or added preservatives, keeping your soup as health-conscious as you desire.
Delicious Cabbage Soup for Easy Weight Loss Wins
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat for 1-2 minutes.
- Add 2 diced yellow onions and 1 cup of bell peppers and sauté for 4-6 minutes until onions are translucent.
- Stir in 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of pepper; mix in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste and cook for another 2 minutes.
- Pour in 4 cups of beef broth or vegetable stock and raise the heat to bring the mixture to a gentle boil for about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the chopped cabbage and reduce heat to low; cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
- Allow to simmer for another 5-10 minutes until cabbage is tender.
- Remove from heat, adjust seasoning if necessary, and serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh herbs.
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