Classic Cabbage Soup (Printable Version)

Enjoy a warm and comforting bowl with tender cabbage, vegetables, and a savory tomato broth. Ideal for chilly days or a light meal.

# List of Ingredients:

→ Vegetables

01 - 1 medium head green cabbage, cored and chopped (about 6 cups)
02 - 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
03 - 2 celery stalks, sliced
04 - 1 medium yellow onion, diced
05 - 2 cloves garlic, minced

→ Tomato Base

06 - 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juice
07 - 2 tablespoons tomato paste

→ Broth & Seasoning

08 - 6 cups vegetable broth
09 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
10 - 1 bay leaf
11 - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
12 - Salt and black pepper, to taste

→ Garnish

13 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

# Directions:

01 - Heat a large soup pot over medium heat. Add a splash of oil, then sauté the onion, carrot, and celery for 5 minutes until softened.
02 - Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Add the chopped cabbage. Stir well and cook for 3–4 minutes until it begins to wilt.
04 - Mix in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute.
05 - Add diced tomatoes with juice, vegetable broth, thyme, bay leaf, smoked paprika if using, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
06 - Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the cabbage and vegetables are tender.
07 - Discard the bay leaf. Adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It comes together in under an hour with ingredients you probably already have
  • The soup freezes beautifully so you can always have a comforting meal ready
  • Each bowl is packed with vegetables but still feels deeply satisfying
02 -
  • Do not skip wilting the cabbage first. If you add it directly to the liquid, it stays firmer and takes longer to cook.
  • This soup tastes even better the next day. Make it ahead and let the flavors meld in the refrigerator.
03 -
  • Use a sharp knife when chopping cabbage. A dull knife crushes the leaves and releases bitter compounds.
  • If you want extra richness, finish each bowl with a drizzle of good olive oil or a dollop of sour cream.
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