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A steaming bowl of homemade cabbage soup with fresh parsley garnish, served on a wooden table.

Cabbage Soup Recipe: Quick, Nourishing & Perfect for Weight Loss!

Cathy
This Cabbage Soup Recipe is a nutritious, low-calorie, and hearty dish loaded with fresh vegetables. Perfect for meal prep, weight loss, or a comforting homemade meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Course Main Course, Soup
Cuisine American, Healthy
Servings 6 servings
Calories 80 kcal

Equipment

  • Large soup pot (5-6 quarts)
  • Cutting board & sharp knife
  • Wooden spoon or ladle
  • Measuring cups & spoons
  • Blender (optional, for creamy version)

Ingredients
  

  • Vegetables & Base
  • 1 small green cabbage Core removed chopped
  • 1 medium onion Diced
  • 2 cloves garlic Minced
  • 2 large carrots Sliced
  • 2 stalks celery Chopped
  • 1 medium bell pepper Chopped optional

Liquids & Seasoning

  • 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes Use fire-roasted for extra flavor
  • 4 cups vegetable broth Or chicken broth for more richness
  • 1 cup water Adjust as needed
  • 1 tsp olive oil For sautéing
  • 1 tsp salt Adjust to taste
  • ½ tsp black pepper Freshly ground
  • 1 tsp paprika For depth of flavor
  • 1 tsp dried oregano Or Italian seasoning
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes Optional for spice
  • 2 tbsp fresh parsley Chopped for garnish
  • 1 tbsp lemon juice For brightness

Instructions
 

✅ Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

  • 1️⃣ Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
  • 2️⃣ Add onions, garlic, carrots, and celery.
  • 3️⃣ Sauté for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until softened.

💡 Tip: Stirring prevents the garlic from burning and keeps the flavors balanced.

    ✅ Step 2: Add Cabbage & Peppers

    • 4️⃣ Add the chopped cabbage and bell peppers, stirring well.
    • 5️⃣ Cook for 3 minutes to soften slightly.

    💡 Tip: Lightly cooking the cabbage before adding broth enhances its natural sweetness!

      ✅ Step 3: Add Tomatoes & Broth

      • 6️⃣ Pour in the diced tomatoes (with juice), vegetable broth, and water.
      • 7️⃣ Add salt, pepper, paprika, oregano, and red pepper flakes.
      • 8️⃣ Stir everything together and bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.

      💡 Tip: For a richer flavor, use fire-roasted diced tomatoes!

        ✅ Step 4: Simmer & Let the Flavors Blend

        • 9️⃣ Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 20-25 minutes.
        • 🔟 Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.

        💡 Tip: The longer it simmers, the better the flavors develop—30 minutes gives the best taste!

          ✅ Step 5: Final Seasoning & Serving

          • 1️⃣1️⃣ Add lemon juice and fresh parsley for a bright, fresh finish.
          • 1️⃣2️⃣ Taste and adjust salt and seasonings if needed.

          💡 Tip: Blend half the soup for a mix of chunky and creamy textures!

            ✅ Step 6: Enjoy!

            • 🍲 Ladle the hot cabbage soup into bowls and serve immediately.
            • 🥖 Pair with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

            💡 Looking for more comforting soups? Try Grandma’s Chicken Soup Recipe for a classic homestyle flavor!

              Notes

              • Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days.
              • Freezing: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months.
              • Reheating: Warm on the stovetop for 5-7 minutes or microwave in 1-minute intervals.
              • Customizations: Try adding ground turkey, lentils, or even potatoes for extra heartiness!
              Keyword cabbage soup, easy vegetable soup, healthy soup recipe, weight loss soup