Cabbage Soup – A Hearty and Comforting Classic

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of cabbage soup to bring comfort and nourishment to your day. Whether you’re looking for a light yet satisfying meal or a cozy dish to enjoy on a chilly evening, this soup delivers both flavor and nutrition in every spoonful. With tender cabbage, hearty ground beef, and a rich tomato-infused broth, this recipe is both simple to make and deeply satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Cabbage Soup

This cabbage soup recipe is the perfect balance of hearty and healthy. It’s packed with fresh vegetables, lean protein, and the natural sweetness of stewed tomatoes. Plus, the Lipton Onion Soup Mix adds a savory depth of flavor, making every bite rich and delicious.

The best part? It’s easy to make in one pot, requires minimal prep, and is great for meal prep. Whether you’re following a healthy eating plan or simply craving a warm, nourishing meal, this soup is a fantastic choice.

Ingredients for Cabbage Soup 

To create this rich and hearty cabbage soup, you’ll need a handful of simple, budget-friendly ingredients. Each one plays a role in enhancing the flavor and texture of the dish, making it both nutritious and delicious.

Essential Ingredients:

• 1 large cabbage 🥬 – The star of the dish! Cabbage adds a mild sweetness and a wonderful texture that becomes tender when cooked.
• 2 small onions, diced 🧅 – Onions provide a deep, aromatic base for the soup, enhancing its savory richness.
• 2 cans of stewed tomatoes 🍅 – These give the broth a natural sweetness and a tangy depth of flavor. Opt for unsalted or low-sodium versions for better control over seasoning.
• 1 pouch Lipton Onion Soup Mix 🍲 – This soup mix brings an extra boost of flavor, infusing the broth with a delicious blend of herbs and seasonings.
• 1 large celery, chopped very small 🥬 – Adds a light crunch and an earthy taste to balance out the richness of the broth.
• Ground beef 🥩 – A hearty addition that provides protein and depth of flavor. Choose lean ground beef for a lighter version of the dish.

How to Make Cabbage Soup

This cabbage soup recipe comes together in just a few simple steps. The process is easy to follow, making it perfect for both beginners and experienced cooks.

Step 1: Prepare the Broth

Fill a large saucepan halfway with water and bring it to a boil. This will serve as the base of your soup, helping to extract flavors from the vegetables as they cook.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables

Once the water is boiling, add the chopped cabbage, diced onions, and celery. Lower the heat to a simmer and allow the vegetables to cook slowly. This will help release their natural sweetness and develop a rich broth.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

While the vegetables are simmering, heat a separate pan over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Once cooked, drain any excess fat to keep the soup light and flavorful.

Step 4: Enhance the Flavor

To deepen the soup’s taste, stir in the Lipton Onion Soup Mix. This step is key to infusing the broth with a savory, well-balanced flavor that brings all the ingredients together.

Step 5: Add the Tomatoes and Meat

Pour in the stewed tomatoes and mix well, allowing their natural sweetness to blend with the broth. Then, add the cooked ground beef to the pot and stir everything together.

Step 6: Simmer and Taste

Let the soup simmer for a few more minutes, giving all the flavors time to meld. Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add salt, pepper, or any additional spices to suit your preference

How Long to Cook Cabbage Soup

The cooking time for cabbage soup depends on how soft you want the vegetables to be and how much the flavors need to blend. Cooking it low and slow enhances the taste and ensures the cabbage becomes tender without being mushy.

General Cooking Guidelines

• Simmering Time: 30-40 minutes
• For a Softer Texture: Up to 1 hour
• For a More Robust Flavor: Allow it to sit for a few hours or even overnight—this soup tastes even better the next day!

Cabbage naturally softens as it cooks, so if you prefer a bit of bite, stick to the shorter cooking time. If you like a melt-in-your-mouth texture, let it simmer a bit longer.

How to Store Leftovers

This cabbage soup stores exceptionally well, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers throughout the week. Here’s how to keep it fresh and enjoy it later:

Refrigerator Storage

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warm.

Freezer Storage

• If you want to freeze the soup, let it cool first.
• Pour into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving a little space at the top to allow for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.
• When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stove.

Tips for the Best Cabbage Soup

To ensure your cabbage soup is flavorful and delicious every time, keep these helpful tips in mind:

1. Choose Fresh Ingredients

The quality of your ingredients makes a difference. Use fresh cabbage, onions, and celery to get the best flavor.

2. Use Lean Ground Beef

Opt for lean ground beef to keep the soup light yet hearty. If you want a richer taste, you can use a mix of ground beef and ground turkey.

3. Let It Rest for More Flavor

Cabbage soup is one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day. If you have time, let it rest for a few hours or overnight before serving.

4. Add More Vegetables

Want extra texture and nutrients? You can mix in carrots, bell peppers, or even zucchini to customize the soup.

5. Adjust the Seasoning to Your Taste

The Lipton Onion Soup Mix adds plenty of flavor, but feel free to season with garlic, smoked paprika, or a dash of red pepper flakes for a little heat.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Cabbage Soup 

1. Can I Make Cabbage Soup Without Meat?

Absolutely! If you prefer a vegetarian version, simply omit the ground beef and replace it with a plant-based protein source like lentils, beans, or mushrooms. You can also use vegetable broth instead of water to enhance the depth of flavor.

2. What’s the Best Type of Cabbage to Use?

Green cabbage is the most common choice for this soup because it becomes tender yet holds its shape when cooked. However, you can also try:

• Savoy cabbage – slightly sweeter and more delicate
• Red cabbage – adds a vibrant color and a slightly earthy taste
• Napa cabbage – softer texture with a mild flavor

3. How Can I Thicken Cabbage Soup?

If you prefer a thicker soup, try these methods:

• Simmer longer to let the liquid reduce naturally.
• Mash some of the cabbage and vegetables to create a slightly thicker consistency.
• Add potatoes or rice to absorb some of the broth and give it a heartier texture.

4. What Spices Go Well with Cabbage Soup?

The Lipton Onion Soup Mix adds plenty of flavor, but you can customize it with extra seasonings like:

• Garlic powder or fresh garlic – for a rich, savory depth
• Smoked paprika – for a warm, slightly smoky taste
• Cumin – adds an earthy, slightly spicy kick
• Red pepper flakes – for a hint of heat