Name: Best Cabbage Soup Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 1 large carrot, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 2 garlic cloves, minced; ½ cabbage, chopped; ¼ cup roughly chopped fresh parsley; ½ teaspoon dried oregano; ½ teaspoon dried basil; ½ teaspoon salt; Cracked black pepper, to taste; 1 to 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes; 4 to 6 cups vegetable broth (adjust depending on desired thickness)

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 47 reviews

If you are on the hunt for a comforting, nutritious, and utterly satisfying bowl of warmth, look no further than the Best Cabbage Soup Recipe. This vibrant, veggie-packed soup takes humble ingredients and transforms them into a melody of flavors that soothe the soul and brighten the table. Whether you’re aiming to cozy up on a chilly evening or enjoy a healthy meal that does not skimp on taste, this cabbage soup hits every mark with ease and joy.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white pot with two handles contains diced vegetables in three layers: orange carrots, light green celery, and translucent white onions mixed with small green herbs, all sautéed and spread evenly inside the pot. A black ladle with a wooden handle rests inside the pot, holding some of the diced vegetables. The pot is placed on a white marbled surface with soft lighting highlighting the fresh colors of the vegetables. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and aroma. Using fresh vegetables and carefully chosen spices elevates this cabbage soup to something truly special. Here’s everything you’ll need to get started:

Olive oil: Adds a subtle richness and helps soften the vegetables without overpowering their natural flavors.
Onion (diced): Builds a savory base with its gentle sweetness and depth.
Large carrot (diced): Brings a delicate sweetness and vibrant color to the soup.
Celery stalks (diced): Offers a pleasant crunch and an aromatic lift.
Garlic cloves (minced): Infuses warmth and an irresistible fragrance that ties everything together.
Dried oregano and basil: These herbs add Mediterranean charm and a subtle herbal complexity.
Salt: Enhances the natural flavors and balances the soup perfectly.
Half a cabbage (chopped): The star ingredient that gives the soup its hearty texture and mild sweetness.
Canned diced tomatoes: Adds a tangy depth and beautiful ruby hue.
Vegetable broth: Creates the perfect savory liquid foundation, adjustable for your preferred soup thickness.
Lemon juice: Provides a bright, zesty finish that lifts the whole dish.
Fresh parsley (roughly chopped): Sprinkles in freshness and a touch of color in the final presentation.
Cracked black pepper: Adds just the right amount of kick to awaken your taste buds.

How to Make Best Cabbage Soup Recipe

A white pot filled with soup showing three visible layers: at the bottom, light green chopped cabbage pieces mixed with small orange carrot cubes; in the middle, a clear golden broth; on top, a bright red pile of diced tomatoes sitting in the center. A white container held by a woman's hand pours more light orange broth into the pot from the right side, all set on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Toss in the diced onions, carrots, and celery to start building that flavorful base. Cook these for about 4 to 5 minutes until they soften and release their natural sweetness—this step is key for developing depth from the very beginning.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices

Next, stir in the minced garlic along with dried oregano, dried basil, and salt. Let them mingle with the sautéed veggies for just about a minute. This short burst of stirring wakes up the herbs and fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that promises something delicious ahead.

Step 3: Add the Cabbage

Now it’s time for the star of the show: chopped cabbage. Add it to the pot and let it sweat down gently for around 5 minutes, stirring frequently so it softens evenly. This helps bring out the mild sweetness and transforms the cabbage into tender, flavorful morsels that will define the soup’s texture.

Step 4: Simmer with Broth and Tomatoes

Pour in your vegetable broth and canned diced tomatoes. This is when everything begins to come together. Allow the soup to simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender to your liking. You can adjust the liquid quantity depending on whether you prefer a thicker stew-like soup or something more broth-heavy.

Step 5: Finish with Freshness

Once the simmering is done, remove the pot from heat and stir in lemon juice, fresh parsley, and cracked black pepper. The lemon juice brightens the flavors and makes each spoonful taste lively and fresh, while parsley and pepper provide a final flourish both in taste and appearance.

How to Serve Best Cabbage Soup Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a tiny drizzle of olive oil can elevate the presentation and add a fresh aroma. For a little indulgence, a dollop of crème fraîche or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan works wonders, giving a nice creamy contrast to the vibrant soup.

Side Dishes

Best enjoyed alongside warm crusty bread or a slice of garlic toast, this soup also pairs beautifully with a simple green salad. The crunchy, fresh salad complements the softness of the soup and makes the meal a well-rounded, satisfying experience.

Creative Ways to Present

Want to impress? Serve the Best Cabbage Soup Recipe in individual bread bowls for a rustic, fun twist. Another idea is to garnish with roasted pumpkin seeds or a swirl of homemade pesto to add unexpected textures and bursts of flavor.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This soup stores beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keep it in an airtight container to preserve its freshness and flavors. The ingredients actually deepen in flavor overnight, making leftovers even more delightful!

Freezing

Best Cabbage Soup Recipe freezes extremely well, making it a fantastic meal prep option. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. Frozen cabbage soup can last up to 3 months and is incredibly convenient for busy days.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the soup has thickened in the fridge or freezer, simply add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up to your desired consistency.

FAQs

Can I use green or red cabbage for this recipe?

Absolutely! Both green and red cabbage work wonderfully in the Best Cabbage Soup Recipe. Green cabbage is milder, while red cabbage adds a slightly earthier flavor and a vibrant hue. Feel free to choose based on your preference or what you have on hand.

Is this soup vegan and gluten-free?

Yes! This cabbage soup is naturally vegan and gluten-free, making it a perfect choice for a wide range of dietary needs. Just ensure your vegetable broth is gluten-free if you have sensitivities.

Can I add protein to make it more filling?

You can easily boost the protein content by adding beans like cannellini or chickpeas, or even tossing in some cooked lentils. If you prefer meat, shredded chicken or turkey can be stirred in after cooking.

How can I make the soup spicier?

For a bit of heat, add crushed red pepper flakes when you add the herbs and spices, or finish the soup with a dash of hot sauce. This gives the Best Cabbage Soup Recipe an exciting kick without overwhelming its comforting flavors.

What if I want a thicker soup consistency?

Simply reduce the amount of vegetable broth next time, or let the soup simmer a bit longer uncovered to thicken naturally. You can also blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in for a creamy texture without adding dairy.

Final Thoughts

This Best Cabbage Soup Recipe is a delightful celebration of simple, wholesome ingredients coming together in perfect harmony. It’s easy to make, nourishing, and endlessly comforting—just the kind of recipe you’ll want to keep close for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Give it a try, and I promise this soup will become one of your new favorites too!