Classic Cabbage

The first time I made cabbage soup, I was skeptical. How could something so humble and inexpensive taste so good? But as it simmered away, filling my tiny apartment with that earthy, comforting aroma, I completely understood why this soup has been feeding families for generations. It transforms simple ingredients into something that feels like a warm hug on a cold day.

Last winter my sister came over feeling under the weather, and this soup was exactly what she needed. She sat wrapped in a blanket at the counter while I chopped vegetables, the smell of onions and carrots hitting the pan making us both feel a little better already. We ended up eating the whole pot between us while watching old movies.

Ingredients

• Green cabbage: The heart of this soup, choose one that feels heavy for its size with tightly packed leaves
• Carrots and celery: These aromatics build the flavor foundation, so take your time sautéing them properly
• Yellow onion: A medium onion provides the right amount of sweetness without overpowering
• Garlic: Fresh minced garlic adds that aromatic kick that makes the kitchen smell amazing
• Diced tomatoes: Use the juice too, it adds body and a subtle acidity that balances the sweetness
• Tomato paste: This concentrated ingredient deepens the color and adds rich umami notes
• Vegetable broth: Good quality broth makes a difference, or use homemade if you have it
• Dried thyme and bay leaf: Classic herb pairings that give it that comforting European flavor
• Smoked paprika: The secret ingredient that adds depth and a little something special
• Fresh parsley: Brightens everything up and adds a fresh finish

Instructions

Build your flavor base:

Heat your soup pot over medium heat, add a splash of oil, then sauté the onion, carrots, and celery for about 5 minutes until softened and fragrant.

Add the aromatics:

Stir in the garlic and cook for just 1 minute until you can smell it, being careful not to burn it.

Wilt the cabbage:

Add the chopped cabbage and stir well, cooking for 3 to 4 minutes until it starts to wilt down and shrink in the pot.

Deepen the flavor:

Mix in the tomato paste and let it cook for 1 minute to caramelize slightly and develop its rich flavor.

Create the soup:

Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, vegetable broth, thyme, bay leaf, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, stirring everything together.

Simmer to perfection:

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25 to 30 minutes until the cabbage and vegetables are completely tender.

Finish and serve:

Remove the bay leaf, taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, then serve hot with fresh parsley sprinkled on top.

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This soup has become my go-to whenever I need something nourishing but not heavy. There is something about the combination of tender cabbage in that tomato broth that just works.

Making It Your Own

The beauty of cabbage soup is how adaptable it is. You can add diced potatoes in the beginning if you want it more filling, or toss in cooked white beans in the last 10 minutes for protein.

Serving Suggestions

A slice of rye bread or a crusty roll alongside makes this a complete meal. The bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of that flavorful broth.

Storage and Leftovers

This soup stores beautifully and actually develops more flavor as it sits. The ingredients have time to get to know each other even better in the refrigerator.

• Keep in an airtight container for up to 5 days in the refrigerator
• Freeze for up to 3 months if you want to batch cook
• Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed

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There is something profoundly satisfying about a soup that costs almost nothing but delivers so much comfort. This recipe proves that simple ingredients treated with respect can create something extraordinary.

Recipe Questions

→ How can I enhance the flavor of this cabbage dish?

To deepen the taste, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika during the simmering stage. You can also allow the dish to rest for a few hours or even overnight; flavors often meld and intensify with time.

→ Can I incorporate other vegetables or protein?

Absolutely! For a heartier meal, diced potatoes or cooked white beans can be excellent additions. Feel free to include other robust vegetables like bell peppers or green beans during the sautéing phase for more variety.

→ Is this preparation suitable for specific diets?

Yes, this vegetable and cabbage combination is naturally vegetarian, gluten-free, and dairy-free. It's a wholesome option that accommodates several dietary preferences, making it broadly appealing.

→ What's the best way to store leftovers?

Allow any remaining portions to cool completely, then transfer them to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.

→ What are some good accompaniments for this dish?

This hearty vegetable blend pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty rye bread or warm dinner rolls for dipping. A simple green salad on the side can also provide a refreshing contrast.

→ How long does it take from start to finish?

From preparation to simmering, the total time required is approximately 50 minutes. This includes about 15 minutes for chopping and sautéing, and 35 minutes for cooking until all vegetables are tender.