Cabbage soup is one of those wholesome, homey dishes that seems to wrap you in a cozy embrace. With its hearty chunks of cabbage simmered to perfection in a bubbling broth, it’s a simple yet satisfying meal. This recipe, featuring just five ingredients, is not only incredibly easy but also budget-friendly, making it a fantastic choice for a weeknight dinner or a comforting lunch. The aroma that fills your kitchen while it cooks is simply delightful, and each spoonful offers the kind of warmth that brings back fond memories of family gatherings and shared meals.

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I vividly remember the first time I made this cabbage soup. I was looking for something simple yet nourishing, and I stumbled upon a recipe that immediately called out to me. With just a few ingredients, I was able to create something not only delicious but also incredibly fulfilling. Who would have thought that such a humble vegetable could be the star of the show? Whether you’re trying to use up leftover cabbage or just in need of a comforting bowl of soup, this cabbage soup is bound to hit the spot. I can’t wait for you to try it out!

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Cabbage Soup
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Cabbage Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Whip it up in just 15 minutes of prep time and 45 minutes of cooking.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of tender cabbage in a savory broth makes each bite a cozy experience.
Eye-Catching Appeal: Bright green cabbage adds a pop of color for a beautiful presentation.
Flexible Serving: Perfect for lunch, dinner, or even as a hearty snack.
Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adaptable for gluten-free diets by swapping out the flour.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 tablespoons salted butter: This adds richness and depth to the soup. You could substitute with olive oil for a dairy-free option.
1 medium onion, chopped: Offers a flavorful base and sweetness when cooked. Yellow onions work best, but feel free to use what you have.
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour: Helps thicken the soup slightly, creating a comforting texture. Gluten-free flour can be used without a problem.
1 medium head green cabbage, cored and roughly chopped: The star ingredient! Cabbage is low in calories yet high in nutrients. If you prefer, savoy cabbage can be a delightful alternative.
8 cups water: This forms the base of your broth, allowing all the flavors to meld together beautifully.
3 tablespoons Better Than Bouillon, chicken or vegetable: Adds a punch of flavor to your broth. Alternatively, you can use homemade stock for a fresher taste.
Kosher salt: Essential for enhancing the flavors. Adjust to your preference.
Black pepper: For a simple spice boost that complements the soup beautifully.

How to Make Cabbage Soup

Melt the Butter: In a large pot, melt 2 tablespoons of salted butter over medium-low heat. Once it’s melted and fragrant, add 1 chopped medium onion and cook, stirring occasionally. You want the onion soft and translucent, which should take about 5 minutes.
Add the Flour: Sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of all-purpose flour and stir continuously for about 2 minutes. This will cook out the raw flour taste and start creating a nice base for your soup.
Combine Ingredients: Pour in 8 cups of water and add 3 tablespoons of Better Than Bouillon, alongside the chopped cabbage. Increase the heat to medium and bring the mixture to a rolling boil.
Simmer: Once boiling, cover the pot and reduce the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer until the cabbage is tender, which should take around 20 minutes. Season with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste.

Storing & Reheating

Cabbage soup can be stored at room temperature for up to 2 hours. If you have leftovers, transfer them into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. For long-term storage, this soup freezes well for up to 3 months; just make sure to let it cool completely before placing it in freezer-safe containers. When you’re ready to enjoy a warm bowl, simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until steaming hot. Keep in mind that the texture may change slightly after freezing, but a splash of water or broth can refresh it beautifully!

Chef’s Helpful Tips

A common mistake is overcooking the cabbage, which can cause it to become mushy. Aim for tender but still slightly crisp pieces.
For a flavor boost, try sautéing garlic with the onion for additional depth.
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of it once it’s cooked and then stir it back into the pot for a creamier texture.
Don’t skip the seasoning! Adjusting salt and pepper at the end is crucial for optimal flavor.
Consider topping the soup with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a burst of freshness right before serving.

Cabbage soup is a fantastic recipe that you can easily customize. You can throw in other vegetables you have at home, like carrots or potatoes, to make it even heartier. You’ll love how simple and fulfilling this dish is, making it the perfect solution for a busy day or a chilly evening. Enjoy the heartwarming flavors and happy memories this soup has to offer!

Recipe FAQs

Can I use green cabbage instead of savoy?

Absolutely! Green cabbage is perfect for this recipe and will give you that classic cabbage soup flavor. Savoy cabbage will add a slightly different texture, but both work wonderfully.

How can I enhance the flavor further?

Try adding herbs and spices like thyme or bay leaves during the cooking process. A splash of lemon juice or a drizzle of olive oil right before serving can also brighten the flavors.

Can I make this soup vegan?

Yes! Simply substitute the Better Than Bouillon chicken flavor with vegetable bouillon and use olive oil in place of butter.

How can I make this soup heartier?

Add protein sources like diced chicken or beans if you want a more filling option. You can also add grains such as quinoa or barley for an added texture and nutrition boost.

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Cabbage Soup

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Author: Katie
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Category: Soups
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: American

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Description

This Cabbage Soup is a delightfully simple dish with an unbeatable flavor. Made with just five ingredients, it’s ideal for a quick dinner or a comforting meal any time of year. Packed with healthy vegetables and savory broth, this homemade soup is a must-try for soup lovers!

Ingredients

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2 tablespoons salted butter
1 medium onion, chopped
1 tablespoon all-purpose flour, (or gf flour)
1 medium head green cabbage, cored and roughly chopped
8 cups water
3 tablespoons better than bouillon, chicken or vegetable
Kosher salt
Black pepper

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Instructions

Melt the butter in a large pot over medium-low heat and add the chopped onion. Cook until the onion is soft but not browned, approximately 5 minutes.
Stir in the flour and cook for about 2 minutes to combine and cook out the raw flavor.
Add the water, bouillon, and chopped cabbage to the pot, increase the heat to medium, and bring to a boil.
Once boiling, cover and reduce the heat to medium-low. Simmer until the cabbage is tender, about 20 minutes.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste, adjusting as needed.

Notes

Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or celery for extra flavor and nutrition.
For a vegetarian option, use vegetable bouillon instead of chicken.
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days.