Nutritious Healing Cabbage Soup Recipe (A Soul-Soothing Recipe)

In the vast culinary world, some dishes touch the soul. They nourish. They restore. They heal. Enter the magic of healing cabbage soup recipe. With its vibrant greens and savory broth, this humble recipe offers more than just flavor. 

It’s a whisper of comfort on chilly days. A hug in a bowl when you need it most. While many soups promise warmth, this one goes a step further.

It rejuvenates. Each spoonful brims with essential nutrients, making it a top choice for health enthusiasts. 

Its origin spans continents, passed down through generations, each tweak and twist making it richer. As a professional food blogger, I’ve tasted countless soups. Yet, this cabbage concoction stands tall. 

Dive into its embrace. Let it soothe your palate and spirit. Welcome to the healing journey of cabbage soup. Discover. Savor. Rejuvenate.

What Is Healing Cabbage Soup?

Healing cabbage soup is a nourishing blend of cabbage, and various vegetables simmered in a savory broth. Often sought for its potential health benefits, this soup is rich in essential nutrients, aiding in digestion and promoting overall well-being.

With its roots in many cultures, it’s been lauded for its comforting qualities and the ability to restore vitality. 

Can You Vary Healing Cabbage Soup With Other Ingredients?

Keto

• Reduce high-carb veggies and use low-carb alternatives such as zucchini or bell peppers.
• Add healthy fats like avocado oil or coconut oil.
• Incorporate more proteins such as chicken or beef.

Paleo

• Exclude any processed ingredients like store-bought bouillon; use homemade bone broth instead.
• Opt for fresh tomatoes rather than canned.
• You can add lean meats like chicken or turkey.

Gluten-Free

• Ensure the chicken bouillon is gluten-free, as some brands might contain additives or wheat derivatives.
• For thickening (if desired), use a gluten-free flour like almond or coconut flour instead of regular flour.

Whole30

• Ensure no sugars or additives are in the canned tomatoes.
• Replace the chicken bouillon with a compliant bone broth.
• Avoid any artificial ingredients and focus on whole foods.

Vegetarian

• Skip the chicken bouillon and use vegetable broth.
• Add more veggies like bell peppers, carrots, or green beans for variety.
• You can also add legumes like beans or lentils for protein; however, they aren’t strictly part of the classic recipe.

Vegan

• Replace chicken bouillon with vegetable broth.
• Add plant-based proteins like tofu, tempeh, or chickpeas.
• Incorporate various vegetables and leafy greens to enhance the nutritional profile.

Recipe Directions 

• In a large stockpot, warm the olive oil over medium heat.
• Add onion and garlic, sautéing until the onion becomes transparent (~5 minutes).
• Incorporate water, bouillon, salt, and pepper, bringing the mixture to a boil.
• Introduce cabbage and let it simmer until it begins to wilt (~10 minutes).
• Mix in the diced tomatoes, bringing it back to a boil.
• Let it simmer for an additional 15 to 30 minutes, ensuring to stir occasionally.
• Serve hot, garnishing with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

Variations

• Protein Boost: Add shredded chicken, diced turkey, beef chunks, or tofu cubes.
• Grain Inclusion: Incorporate quinoa, brown rice, or barley for a hearty touch.
• Creamy Twist: Use coconut milk or heavy cream for a creamier texture.
• Spice It Up: Add chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or diced jalapeños for a spicier kick.
• Asian Flair: Incorporate ginger, lemongrass, and swap olive oil with sesame oil for an Asian-inspired variant.

Add-Ons

• Vegetables: Toss in diced carrots, green beans, bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach.
• Legumes: Incorporate lentils, chickpeas, or white beans for added protein and texture.
• Herbs: Fresh basil, cilantro, dill, or rosemary can infuse unique flavors.
• Seaweed: Consider adding strips of seaweed for a unique flavor and added minerals.
• Mushrooms: Shiitake, portobello, or cremini mushrooms can give an earthy depth to the soup.

Toppings

• Cheese: Grated parmesan, feta crumbles, or shredded cheddar can add a rich flavor.
• Nuts & Seeds: Sprinkle sunflower seeds, pumpkin seeds, or toasted almonds for a crunchy texture.
• Herb Garnish: Chopped fresh parsley, cilantro, or green onions add color and freshness.
• Croutons: Add homemade croutons for a crunchy contrast.

Can I Make Healing Cabbage Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

Slow Cooker Method

Preparation

• Follow the initial steps of sautéing the onion and garlic in a pan with olive oil until the onion becomes transparent.
• Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic to the slow cooker.

Add Ingredients

• Add the water, chicken bouillon, salt, pepper, chopped cabbage, and diced tomatoes to the slow cooker.

Cooking

• Set the slow cooker to low and let it cook for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. This slow and steady cooking will allow the flavors to meld together and the cabbage to become tender.

Serving

• Check for seasoning and adjust if needed before serving.

Instant Pot Method

Sauté

• Turn on the sauté function on the Instant Pot.
• Add olive oil. Once hot, add the onion and garlic and sauté until the onion is transparent.

Add Ingredients

• Add the water, ensuring there’s enough liquid to cover the ingredients but without exceeding the Instant Pot’s max fill line.
• Incorporate the chicken bouillon, salt, pepper, chopped cabbage, and diced tomatoes.

Cooking

• Secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual (or pressure cook) mode on high pressure for 15 minutes.
• After the cooking time is up, allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining pressure.

Serving

• Open the lid once the pin drops, stir the soup, check for seasoning, and adjust if needed before serving.

Can I Use Store Bought Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?

Store-Bought Broth

• Convenience: It’s quick and easy, especially when you’re short on time.
• Consistency: Brands typically maintain a consistent flavor profile for their broths.
• Variety: There are numerous flavors and types available, including low-sodium, organic, bone broth, and broths tailored for specific diets.
• Shelf Life: Packaged broths have longer shelf lives than fresh homemade broths.
• Ingredients: Some store-bought broths may contain additives, preservatives, or MSG. Reading the label is essential if you’re concerned about these ingredients.
• Sodium Content: Commercial broths often contain high levels of salt. Opt for low-sodium versions if sodium intake is a concern.
• Flavor: Some people find store-bought broths to be less flavorful or rich than homemade versions.

Homemade Broth

• Flavor: You have full control over the depth and richness of the flavor. Homemade broth often has a fresher and more robust taste.
• Ingredients: You know exactly what’s going into your broth, ensuring it’s free from additives or preservatives you might want to avoid.
• Use of Scraps: Making broth is a great way to utilize vegetable scraps, leftover bones, or meat pieces, reducing waste.
• Customization: You can tailor the broth to your preferences, adding herbs, spices, or other ingredients to suit the dish you’re making.

How To Serve ?

• Preheat the Bowls: Pour hot water into the soup bowls to warm them up. Dump out the water just before serving. This ensures the soup stays warm for a longer time.
• Fresh Garnishes: Enhance the flavor and visual appeal by adding fresh garnishes. Consider chopped fresh parsley, green onions, or dill. A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a drizzle of olive oil can also add a finishing touch.
• Bread on the Side: A warm slice of crusty bread or a bread roll can be served alongside the soup. It’s perfect for dipping and soaking up any leftover broth. For a healthier option, consider whole grain or sourdough bread.
• Include Protein: If you want to make the soup more filling, serve it with sliced grilled chicken, tofu cubes, or a boiled egg on the side. This will provide added protein for a more balanced meal.
• Pair with Salad: A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the hearty nature of the soup. Think mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a simple lemon-olive oil dressing.

Perfect Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread or Rolls: Freshly baked or toasted bread is always a win with soup. It’s perfect for dipping and absorbing the flavorful broth.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: An all-time favorite, a crispy grilled cheese sandwich paired with the soup offers a comforting, warm meal.
• Quinoa or Brown Rice Salad: A light salad with grains mixed with fresh veggies, olive oil, and lemon juice offers both texture and flavor.
• Green Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions, olives, and a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies, roasted with olive oil, garlic, and herbs, can enhance the meal’s nutritional value.

Storage And Make Ahead

• Make Ahead: Prepare the soup up to 2 days in advance to allow flavors to develop for a richer taste.
• Storage: Cool the soup completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even heating.
• Broth Adjustment: Add more broth or water when reheating if the soup has thickened too much.
• Garnish Fresh: Add freshly chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon upon serving to refresh flavors and enhance presentation.

What Can We Do With Leftovers?

• Pasta Mix: Toss with cooked pasta for a vegetable-packed noodle dish.
• Stuffed Peppers: Fill hollowed bell peppers and bake until peppers are tender.
• Rice Enhancer: Mix with cooked rice or quinoa for a flavorful grain bowl.
• Soup Base: Use as a base for another soup. Add beans, lentils, or meat.
• Smoothie: Blend and serve cold with a dash of spices for a savory smoothie.
• Pie Filling: Use as filling for a savory pot pie.

Nutrition Table