Cabbage soup is a timeless classic, loved for its rich flavors, simplicity, and impressive health benefits. Whether you’re looking for a low-calorie meal, a comforting dish for cold nights, or a recipe that supports weight loss and detox, this cabbage soup checks all the boxes.
For decades, cabbage soup has been a go-to recipe for those following the Cabbage Soup Diet, a short-term weight-loss plan known for its effectiveness. But even beyond dieting, this soup is a nutrient-packed, wholesome dish that can be enjoyed by everyone. It’s loaded with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making it a perfect addition to any balanced diet.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- 🥬 Healthy & Low-Calorie – A nourishing soup packed with fiber and nutrients.
- ⏳ Quick & Easy to Make – Ready in under an hour with minimal ingredients.
- 🍲 Versatile & Customizable – Can be made vegetarian, spicy, or even protein-rich!
- 💚 Perfect for Weight Loss – Low in calories while keeping you full for longer.
Throughout this post, you’ll find step-by-step instructions, nutrition details, variations, and even tips on how to store and serve your cabbage soup for maximum flavor. Plus, if you love hearty soups, you might also enjoy this Creamy Garlic Soup with Croutons for a rich and satisfying alternative.
Now, let’s dive into what you’ll need to make this delicious cabbage soup!
What You’ll Need to Make Cabbage Soup
Before we dive into the ingredients and cooking steps, let’s make sure you have the right kitchen tools for a smooth cooking experience. Having everything ready beforehand makes the process much easier and more enjoyable!
Essential Kitchen Tools
🥄 1. Large Soup Pot or Dutch Oven
- A large, heavy-bottomed pot is ideal for cooking cabbage soup. Since this recipe yields multiple servings, you’ll need a 6-quart pot or larger to fit all the ingredients comfortably.
🔪 2. Sharp Knife & Cutting Board
- Since cabbage and other vegetables require chopping, a sharp chef’s knife and a sturdy cutting board will make prep work much easier.
🥄 3. Wooden Spoon or Ladle
- A long-handled wooden spoon or ladle is helpful for stirring the soup as it simmers, preventing ingredients from sticking to the bottom.
🍽 4. Measuring Cups & Spoons
- Precise measurements ensure that your soup has the perfect balance of flavors.
🕰 5. Optional: Slow Cooker or Instant Pot
- If you prefer a hands-off approach, this soup can also be made in a slow cooker or Instant Pot for added convenience.
Pro Tip: A Dutch oven is an excellent alternative if you want to enhance the flavors by slowly simmering the soup over low heat.
Now that your kitchen tools are ready, let’s move on to the ingredients you’ll need for this nourishing and satisfying cabbage soup!
Ingredients for Cabbage Soup
The beauty of cabbage soup lies in its simple yet nutritious ingredients. Each component brings something unique to the dish—whether it’s fiber, vitamins, or bold flavors.
Main Ingredients
🥬 1. Green Cabbage (1 small head, chopped)
- The star of the dish! Cabbage is packed with fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, making this soup both hearty and healthy.
🍅 2. Diced Tomatoes (1 can, 14 oz)
- Adds a slight tanginess and a boost of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant.
🥕 3. Carrots (2 medium, sliced)
- Brings natural sweetness and extra beta-carotene for a nutritional punch.
🧅 4. Onion (1 large, diced)
- Enhances flavor and gives the soup a deliciously aromatic base.
🫑 5. Bell Peppers (1 red, 1 green, chopped)
- A mix of peppers adds both color and a hint of sweetness.
🥒 6. Celery (2 stalks, chopped)
- Helps enhance the texture and adds a subtle crunch.
🧄 7. Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
- Boosts flavor and provides immune-supporting benefits.
🥣 8. Vegetable Broth or Chicken Broth (6 cups)
- Serves as the foundation of the soup, imparting richness and depth.
🌿 9. Herbs & Spices
- Salt & Pepper – To taste.
- Italian Seasoning (1 tsp) – For an herby aroma.
- Paprika (½ tsp) – Adds a subtle smokiness.
- Red Pepper Flakes (¼ tsp, optional) – For a little heat.
- Bay Leaf (1 leaf) – Infuses the broth with extra depth.
Optional Additions
- Protein – Add cooked chicken, turkey, or ground beef for extra heartiness.
- Grains – Mix in brown rice, quinoa, or barley for a more filling meal.
- Lemon Juice – A splash of fresh lemon brightens the flavors.
💡 Looking for more cozy soup ideas? Try this Creamy Mushroom Soup for a velvety alternative!
Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s move on to the step-by-step cooking instructions!
How to Make Cabbage Soup (Step-by-Step Guide)
With all the ingredients prepped and ready, let’s dive into cooking This easy cabbage soup recipe comes together in just a few simple steps.
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil to a large soup pot and heat it over medium heat.
- Add the diced onions, bell peppers, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables soften.
- Add the garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
Step 2: Add the Cabbage and Broth
- Add the chopped cabbage to the pot and mix well.
- Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and give it a good stir.
- Toss in the diced tomatoes (with juice), bay leaf, Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes at this point.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
- Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then lower the heat to a simmer.
- Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the cabbage and vegetables are tender.
- Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 4: Taste & Adjust Seasoning
- Remove the bay leaf and discard.
- Taste the soup and adjust the salt, pepper, or seasonings as needed.
- If you want a bit of acidity, squeeze in fresh lemon juice before serving.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
- Serve with crusty bread, a side salad, or grilled protein for a complete meal.
Pro Tip: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for later.
Nutrition Score & Health Benefits of Cabbage Soup
Cabbage soup isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with nutrients that support overall health. Whether you’re making it for a low-calorie meal or to enjoy its detoxifying benefits, this soup is an excellent addition to your diet.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving, Approximate Values)
- Calories: ~80-100 kcal
- Carbohydrates: ~18g
- Protein: ~3g
- Fat: ~1.5g
- Fiber: ~5g
- Vitamin C: ~40% of daily value
- Vitamin K: ~60% of daily value
- Antioxidants: High in beta-carotene and flavonoids
Health Benefits of Cabbage Soup
🥬 1. Supports Weight Loss & Detox
- Low in calories but high in fiber, making it a filling and nutrient-dense meal.
- Serves as a natural detoxifier, aiding the body in flushing out toxins.
💖 2. Heart-Healthy & Anti-Inflammatory
- Rich in antioxidants that help reduce inflammation and protect against chronic diseases.
- Contains potassium, which supports heart health and blood pressure regulation.
🥣 3. Gut-Friendly & Easy to Digest
- The high fiber content promotes healthy digestion and keeps your gut happy.
- Great for those with sensitive stomachs, as it’s light yet satisfying.
🩺 4. Boosts Immunity
- Packed with vitamin C, which strengthens the immune system and helps fight off colds.
- Contains sulfur compounds known for their detoxifying and immune-boosting properties.
If you love nutrient-rich soups, check out this Creamy Mushroom Soup for another comforting and healthy option!
Serving & Storage Tips for Cabbage Soup
Whether you’re enjoying this soup fresh off the stove or storing it for later, here are the best ways to serve and preserve its delicious flavors.
How to Serve Cabbage Soup
🍽 1. As a Light Meal or Appetizer
- Enjoy a warm bowl of cabbage soup on its own for a light, satisfying meal.
- Serve it as a starter before your main dish for added fiber and nutrients.
🍞 2. Pair It with Bread or Salad
- Complement the soup with crusty whole-grain bread or a side salad for a well-rounded meal.
- Try it with a slice of toasted garlic bread for an extra burst of flavor!
🍗 3. Make It a Protein-Packed Dish
- Add shredded chicken, turkey, or beans to make the soup even more filling.
- A side of grilled salmon or tofu pairs well with this healthy dish.
How to Store Cabbage Soup
🥶 Refrigeration (Up to 5 Days)
- Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it into an airtight container.
- Refrigerate it for up to 5 days for optimal freshness.
- Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through.
❄️ Freezing (Up to 3 Months)
- For longer storage, place the cooled soup in freezer-safe containers or ziplock bags.
- Leave about ½ inch of space at the top to allow for expansion.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
🔥 How to Reheat from Frozen
- Stovetop: Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Microwave: Use the defrost setting before heating it in 1-minute intervals.
Pro Tip: Freeze the soup in individual portions for easy, grab-and-go meals!
For another hearty, make-ahead recipe, try this Cabbage Roll Casserole—it’s a perfect complement to cabbage soup!
Variations & Additions for Cabbage Soup
Cabbage soup is incredibly versatile and can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are some ways to switch things up and make it your own.
1. Add Protein for a Hearty Meal
🍗 Chicken Cabbage Soup
- Add shredded rotisserie chicken or grilled chicken breast to make the soup more filling and boost the protein content.
- You can also use ground turkey or lean beef for a different twist!
🧑🍳 Vegetarian Cabbage Soup
- For a meatless option, simply omit the meat and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Add tofu, tempeh, or beans (like kidney beans or chickpeas) for extra protein.
2. Add Grains for Extra Texture
🍚 Cabbage Soup with Rice or Quinoa
- Stir in brown rice, white rice, or quinoa to add a whole grain element to the soup.
- These grains will help make the soup even more filling, while keeping it healthy and nutrient-dense.
🍝 Cabbage Soup with Pasta
- Add whole wheat pasta, rice noodles, or small pasta shapes like elbow macaroni for a hearty, comforting twist.
3. Experiment with Different Vegetables
🥔 Add Potatoes for Creaminess
- Add diced potatoes for a heartier texture. The starch from the potatoes will make the broth a bit creamier.
- You can also try sweet potatoes for a slightly sweeter flavor.
🌽 Add Corn for Sweetness
- Toss in some frozen or fresh corn kernels for added sweetness and texture.
4. Spice It Up!
🌶 Add Heat with Hot Sauce or Jalapeños
- For those who like a little spice, fresh jalapeños, hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper can give the soup an extra kick.
- You can also experiment with curry powder for an entirely new flavor profile.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What ingredients go in cabbage soup?
The key ingredients for cabbage soup include green cabbage, onion, carrots, celery, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. You can also add garlic, bell peppers, and a mix of herbs and spices like bay leaf, Italian seasoning, paprika, and red pepper flakes. For a protein boost, you can add chicken, turkey, or beans.
2. Does the cabbage soup diet actually work?
The cabbage soup diet is a short-term weight loss plan that involves eating cabbage soup as a primary food source. While it may lead to temporary weight loss due to its low-calorie nature, it’s not a sustainable long-term solution. It’s best to focus on a balanced diet that includes a variety of whole foods.
3. How much weight can you lose in 2 weeks on the cabbage soup diet?
The cabbage soup diet may result in weight loss of up to 10 pounds in 1-2 weeks due to its low-calorie intake. However, much of this weight loss is water weight and may not be sustainable in the long term. It’s important to incorporate a healthy, balanced diet to maintain weight loss.
4. Which soup is best for losing belly fat?
Soups that are high in fiber and protein, like cabbage soup, are great for losing belly fat. They help you feel fuller for longer, reducing overall calorie intake. Look for soups with vegetables, lean proteins, and broth-based liquids, and avoid cream-heavy options.
Want more soup recipes? Check out this Creamy Garlic Soup with Croutons for a cozy meal!
Conclusion
Cabbage soup is a delicious, versatile, and nutritious meal that can be enjoyed by anyone looking for a light yet satisfying dish. With its hearty vegetables and flavorful broth, it’s perfect for weight loss, detoxing, or simply warming up on a chilly day. You can customize it to suit your preferences, whether you want to add protein, grains, or extra vegetables.
Whether you’re looking for a healthy meal to start your day or a low-calorie, filling dish, this cabbage soup is a great choice. Plus, it’s easy to make and stores well for meal prep or leftovers.