Hearty Cabbage Soup – A Soul-Soothing Recipe

Warm your soul with Hearty Cabbage Soup – a delightful journey of flavors and textures. This comforting broth brims with healthy vegetables, resulting in a nourishing meal that satisfies and rejuvenates. 

Experience the crunch of fresh cabbage, the earthy wholesomeness of root vegetables, and the satisfying depth of aromatic herbs.

Relish the simmering broth as it gently unwinds the ingredients, weaving them into a tapestry of hearty goodness. 

Taste the harmonious blend of sweetness, bitterness, and umami, revealing a complexity rarely found in such humble fare. Let each spoonful warm you, filling your senses with homey, rustic charm.

A bowl of this Hearty Cabbage Soup goes beyond a simple meal; it’s a moment of mindful appreciation, a testament to the nurturing power of nature’s bounty. 

Take a plunge into this ocean of flavors, and immerse yourself in the rejuvenating power of pure, unadulterated culinary pleasure.

It’s not just about feasting; it’s about experiencing the richness of simplicity. Unveil the soup lover in you – you’re one spoonful away from this mouthwatering delight.

What Is Hearty Cabbage Soup?

Hearty Cabbage Soup is a nourishing concoction brimming with fresh cabbage, assorted vegetables, and aromatic herbs. It’s a perfect blend of diverse textures and rich flavors that awaken the senses.

Not just a meal; it’s a wellness journey packed with vitamins and minerals vital for your health. 

This rustic, homey delight fills you with warmth, making it ideal for cooler weather or a rejuvenating break from the complex fare. Its simplicity, tradition, and love are served in a bowl.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients?

• Keto Omit the apples and potatoes due to their high carbohydrate content. Instead, add more low-carb vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers.
• Paleo Replace the white sugar with a Paleo-approved sweetener like honey or maple syrup. Also, substitute the half-and-half cream with a Paleo-friendly version, such as almond milk or coconut cream.
• Gluten-Free This recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you ensure that the vegetable broth and Italian seasoning you use are certified gluten-free.
• Whole30 To make it Whole30-compliant, omit the sugar and half-and-half cream. Use a Whole30-compliant broth, and add extra veggies or lean protein like chicken for a filling meal.
• Vegetarian This recipe is already vegetarian. Just ensure the vegetable broth you’re using contains no hidden meat products.
• Vegan To make the soup vegan, replace the half-and-half cream with a non-dairy alternative like coconut or almond milk. Be sure to use a sugar that’s certified vegan.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

Variations

• Protein Power: Add shredded chicken, cubed tofu, or chickpeas for a protein boost.
• Seafood Surprise: Incorporate shrimp or clams for a pescatarian twist.
• Extra Veggies: Toss in more vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrients and color.

Add-Ons

• Grain Goodness: Stir in cooked barley, quinoa, or brown rice to fill the soup.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper, red pepper flakes, or fresh chili for a spicy kick.
• Creamy Touch: Swirl in coconut or almond milk as a dairy-free alternative to cream.

Toppings

• Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley, dill, or cilantro for added freshness and color.
• Cheesy Delight: Sprinkle-grated Parmesan or crumbled feta for a salty, cheesy finish.
• Crispy Croutons: Top with homemade croutons for a delightful crunch.
• Zesty Twist: Squeeze a wedge of lemon on top for a refreshing, tangy finish.

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

Slow Cooker

• Saute the onions and apples in vegetable oil over medium-high heat until lightly browned. Add the garlic during the last minute of sauteing to prevent it from burning.
• Transfer the sauteed onions, apples, and garlic to your slow cooker. Add the shredded cabbage, shredded potato, vegetable broth, Italian seasoning, and sugar.
• Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the vegetables are tender.
• Stir in the cream, salt, and pepper during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Heat through and serve.

Instant Pot

• Use the saute function to cook the onions and apples in vegetable oil until lightly browned. Add the garlic during the last minute of sauteing.
• Add the shredded cabbage, shredded potato, vegetable broth, Italian seasoning, and sugar. Secure the lid and set the pressure release to sealing.
• Select the “Soup” or “Manual” setting and set the cooking time for 15 minutes at high pressure.
• Allow a natural pressure release. Once the pressure has fully released, open the lid and stir in the cream, salt, and pepper. Select the saute setting again and heat the soup through before serving.

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

Store-Bought Broth

Store-bought broth can be a real-time-saver and is quite convenient. Look for low-sodium versions so you can control the salt content of your soup more effectively. Organic and MSG-free options may also provide healthier choices.

Homemade Broth

The homemade broth gives you complete control over the ingredients and flavor profile. Homemade broth is often more flavorful and rich, and you can adjust the seasonings to your liking. It’s also a great way to utilize vegetable scraps or leftover bones.

How To Serve?

• Warm Bread: Serving the soup with a side of crusty whole-grain bread or dinner rolls can make for a satisfying meal. The bread is perfect for dipping into the soup and soaking up the flavorful broth.
• Garnish: Enhance the presentation and flavor of your soup by adding a garnish. This could be a sprinkle of fresh herbs (like parsley or dill), a dollop of sour cream, or a sprinkling of shredded cheese.
• Accompaniment: Pair the soup with a hearty salad or a sandwich for a complete meal. A classic Caesar salad or a grilled cheese sandwich could make excellent companions for this soup.
• Serving Ware: Serve the soup in a deep bowl to keep it warm longer. You can also consider using a soup tureen for serving when entertaining guests.
• Meal Prep: This soup is excellent for meal prep as it stores well in the fridge for several days and can be reheated easily. It’s perfect for those busy days when you need a quick and nutritious meal.

Perfect Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or a slice of sourdough bread can be perfect for dipping into the soup, providing a delightful texture contrast.
• Green Salad: A crisp, fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help balance the hearty and rich flavors of the soup. Think mixed greens with a simple dressing of olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic comfort food, a grilled cheese sandwich can pair wonderfully with cabbage soup. The creamy, melted cheese and toasted bread perfectly match the savory soup.
• Roasted Vegetables: A side of roasted root vegetables like carrots, parsnips, or beets would complement the soup well, enhancing its earthy flavors.
• Quinoa Salad: A chilled quinoa salad with a mix of vegetables and a light dressing can pleasantly contrast the warm soup.
• Pickles or Olives: A small plate can provide a nice tangy, briny contrast to the soup’s flavors.
• Cheese Board: If you’re serving the soup as a starter for a dinner party, consider following it with a cheese board that includes a variety of cheeses, fruits, and crackers.

Storage And Make Ahead

• Refrigeration: Store cooled soup in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: Freeze soup in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
• Make Ahead: Prepare soup without adding the final seasoning. Cool completely and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat and season before serving.
• Batch Cooking: Double the recipe and freeze in individual portions for quick, homemade meals.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to thin the soup.

What Can We Do With Leftovers? 

• Quick Lunch/Dinner: It makes a convenient meal on busy days. Pair with a fresh salad or crusty bread.
• Soup Base: Use it as a base for other soup recipes. You can add leftover meats, grains, or extra veggies to create a new dish.
• Stew: Thicken the soup with a bit of flour or cornstarch to create a stew.
• Pasta Sauce: Blend it into a smooth sauce and serve it over pasta. Add some grated cheese on top for extra flavor.
• Baked Casserole: Mix it with cooked rice or pasta, top with cheese, and bake until golden.
• Bread Bowl: Serve it in a bread bowl for a fun and satisfying meal.

TIPS

• Enhance the flavor by sautéing the cabbage and onions until caramelized before adding them to the soup.
• Add a splash of apple cider vinegar to brighten the flavors and cut through the richness of the broth.
• For a heartier soup, add diced potatoes or white beans along with the cabbage for added texture and substance.
• Consider adding a can of diced tomatoes for a touch of acidity and depth of flavor.
• Garnish each bowl with a dollop of sour cream or yogurt and a sprinkle of fresh dill for a refreshing finish.

Nutrition Table