Easy Cabbage Soup Quick, Healthy, and Comforting Recipe
Why are the simplest recipes often the tastiest? In France, easy cabbage soup is one of those traditional dishes that warms not just the body, but the heart as well. With a 35% increase in Google searches related to “homemade soup recipes” during winter, it’s clear that the French (and many others) are rediscovering the benefits of a good, simple, and authentic cabbage soup.
In this article, we present an easy version of cabbage soup, perfect for busy evenings or family meals. Whether you’re new to cooking or a fan of rustic dishes, this recipe will win you over. Learn how to transform a few simple vegetables into a burst of flavor—stress-free.
Ingredients for Easy Cabbage Soup
To prepare this delightful and straightforward cabbage soup, you’ll need the following ingredients: We’ve added some substitution suggestions to fit your taste or dietary needs.
Main Ingredients:
- 1 savoy cabbage (about 1 kg), thinly sliced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced into rounds
- 2 medium potatoes, cubed
- 1 yellow onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 leek, finely sliced (optional but recommended)
- 1 liter of vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, pepper, thyme, bay leaf (to taste)
Possible Substitutions:
- Use Milan cabbage instead of savoy cabbage to achieve a softer, more delicate texture.
- For a vegan protein-rich version, add green lentils.
- Swap potatoes with turnip or parsnip for varied flavor.
Preparation Time
Preparing an easy cabbage soup doesn’t require an entire afternoon. Here’s a time breakdown:
- Preparation: 15 minutes
- Cooking: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
💡 That’s about 20% less than the average prep time of traditional French rustic soups (usually around 75 minutes).
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep the Vegetables
In a large pot, heat the olive oil. Add the onion, garlic, and leek. Cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are soft and translucent.
Tip: Adding a pinch of salt early helps release moisture from the onions faster.
Step 2: Add Root Vegetables
Add carrots and potatoes. Sauté for another 5 minutes to slightly brown them.
Step 3: Add the Cabbage
Stir in the shredded cabbage. Let it wilt for 5 minutes until it reduces in volume.
Step 4: Simmer Gently
Pour in the hot broth. Add herbs (thyme, bay leaf), salt, and pepper. Cover and simmer on low heat for 40–45 minutes.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust
Give the soup a final taste before serving and fine-tune the seasoning to suit your preference.
Nutritional Information
| Nutritional Value per Serving (300 ml) | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 145 kcal |
| Protein | 3.5 g |
| Carbohydrates | 21 g |
| Fat | 4 g |
| Fiber | 6 g |
| Sodium | 480 mg |
| Vitamin C | 50% DV |
| Iron | 10% DV |
💡 Rich in fiber and low in fat, this soup is perfect for balanced diets.
Healthier Alternatives
Want to make this recipe even lighter without sacrificing flavor? Here are a few suggestions:
- Red cabbage instead of green for more antioxidants.
- Sweet potatoes for a lower glycemic index.
- Replace olive oil with coconut oil for a subtle tropical note and a different fatty acid profile.
- Smoked tofu cubes for a high-protein vegetarian version.
Serving Suggestions
Cabbage soup stands well on its own, but here are some tasty ways to serve it:
- A slice of garlic-rubbed country bread, toasted
- A drizzle of fresh cream or Greek yogurt for extra creaminess
- A poached egg gently placed in the center for a hearty bowl
- Crispy bacon bits for a smoky twist
🎯 For a cozy evening, serve it in rustic bowls topped with fresh herbs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Skipping the step of sweating the vegetables – This is crucial for building deep, foundational flavors in the soup.
- Overcooking the cabbage – It becomes bitter and mushy.
- Under-seasoning – Cabbage absorbs seasoning; be generous.
- Adding too much water – It dilutes flavors. Broth should just cover the veggies.
- Using overly salty store-bought broth – It throws off balance.
Storage Tips
- Refrigerator: Keep in a sealed, airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days to maintain freshness.
- Freezing: Up to 3 months. Portion into containers for quick meals.
- Reheating: Gently over low heat to preserve veggie texture.
💡 Meal prep tip: Double the batch and freeze half for busy weeknights.
You may also like this
Simple Mediterranean Salmon Recipe | Low-Carb & Omega-3 Rich
Healthy Garlic Chicken & Broccoli With Spinach – Better Than Takeout!
Conclusion
Easy cabbage soup is more than a winter dish—it’s a comforting, nourishing, and economical tradition. In under an hour, you can serve your family a healthy, flavorful meal.
👉 Try this recipe tonight, leave your feedback in the comments, and subscribe for more easy, delicious recipes!
