There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of cabbage soup. It’s one of those simple, hearty dishes that always hits the spot, whether you’re looking for a light meal, a healthy reset, or just something soothing on a chilly day. I love making this cabbage soup because it’s not only packed with nutrients but also incredibly easy to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you get a flavorful and satisfying meal that comes together effortlessly.
A Simple and Wholesome Soup
Cabbage soup has been a go-to recipe in my kitchen for years. The combination of tender cabbage, sweet stewed tomatoes, and savory onion soup mix creates a delicious blend of flavors. Plus, it’s naturally low in calories yet filling enough to be enjoyed as a main dish.
Ingredients for Cabbage Soup
To make this simple yet flavorful cabbage soup, you’ll need just a few pantry-friendly ingredients. Each one plays a role in creating a rich and satisfying broth while keeping the dish light and nourishing.
Key Ingredients
- 1 large cabbage, chopped 🥬 – Cabbage is the star of this dish, providing a hearty texture and mild sweetness when cooked.
- 2 small onions, diced 🧅 – Onions add depth and a natural sweetness to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) stewed tomatoes 🍅 – These give the soup a rich, slightly tangy flavor and help build a robust broth.
- 1 pouch Lipton Onion Soup Mix, any flavor 🍲 – This pre-seasoned mix enhances the soup with a delicious, savory taste, eliminating the need for multiple spices.
Optional Additions for Extra Flavor
- Garlic – Minced garlic can add an aromatic boost.
- Carrots & Celery – These vegetables provide additional sweetness and crunch.
- Bell Peppers – For a pop of color and subtle sweetness.
- Fresh Herbs (like parsley or thyme) – To brighten up the final dish.
How to Make Cabbage Soup
Making this soup is incredibly simple, requiring just one large pot and a few easy steps. Follow along to create a warm and comforting meal.
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Begin by washing the cabbage thoroughly and chopping it into bite-sized pieces. Dice the onions into small pieces to ensure they cook evenly. If you’re adding any extra vegetables, chop them as well.
Step 2: Combine Everything in a Pot
In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, add the chopped cabbage, diced onions, and canned stewed tomatoes (including their juices). Sprinkle the Lipton Onion Soup Mix over the top to infuse the broth with flavor.
Step 3: Add Water & Bring to a Boil
Pour enough water into the pot to fully cover the ingredients. This ensures the cabbage cooks evenly while creating a rich broth. Place the pot over medium-high heat and bring the soup to a boil.
Step 4: Simmer Until Tender
Once the soup reaches a rolling boil, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally to make sure all the ingredients cook evenly. The cabbage should become soft and tender while soaking up all the delicious flavors.
Step 5: Season & Adjust
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. If desired, add a pinch of salt and black pepper. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.
Step 6: Serve & Enjoy
Once the cabbage is perfectly tender, your soup is ready to serve! Ladle it into bowls and enjoy it hot. You can garnish it with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice for extra brightness
How Long to Cook Cabbage Soup
The cooking time for cabbage soup depends on how soft you prefer the cabbage. Since cabbage is a sturdy vegetable, it takes some time to break down and absorb the flavors of the broth. Here’s a general guideline:
- For slightly firm cabbage – Simmer for 25-30 minutes. This keeps some texture in the cabbage.
- For tender, melt-in-your-mouth cabbage – Simmer for 35-40 minutes. This allows the flavors to fully develop while making the cabbage soft.
- For extra-rich flavor – Let the soup cook on very low heat for 1 hour. The longer it simmers, the deeper the flavor becomes.
Keep in mind that the soup continues to develop flavor as it sits, making it even tastier the next day!
How to Store Leftovers
Cabbage soup is a fantastic make-ahead meal because it stores and reheats well. Here’s how to keep it fresh:
Refrigerator Storage
- Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
- Store in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.
- Reheat in a pot over low heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Freezer Storage
- Cabbage soup freezes well! Let it cool before pouring it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
- To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and warm it up on the stove.
Tip: If you plan to freeze the soup, consider undercooking the cabbage slightly so it retains more texture when reheated.
Tips for the Best Cabbage Soup
- Use fresh cabbage – Fresh, firm cabbage holds up best in the soup and won’t turn mushy too quickly.
- Adjust the liquid – If you like a thicker soup, reduce the water slightly. For a brothier soup, add more water.
- Add extra protein – To make it more filling, add beans, tofu, or shredded chicken.
- Boost the flavor – A splash of lemon juice or a pinch of smoked paprika can enhance the taste
Cozy and Nourishing Cabbage Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6-8 servings 1x
Description
This comforting Cabbage Soup is a simple yet flavorful dish, perfect for a light meal or a healthy addition to your meal plan. Made with tender cabbage, sweet stewed tomatoes, and a savory onion soup mix, this soup is both nourishing and satisfying. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a great recipe for busy days or meal prepping ahead of time!
Ingredients
- 1 large cabbage, chopped 🥬
- 2 small onions, diced 🧅
- 2 cans (14.5 oz each) stewed tomatoes 🍅
- 1 pouch Lipton Onion Soup Mix, any flavor 🍲
- Water (enough to cover ingredients)
- Salt and black pepper (optional, to taste)
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the ingredients – Wash and chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Dice the onions into small, even pieces.
2️⃣ Combine in a pot – In a large soup pot, add the chopped cabbage, diced onions, and canned stewed tomatoes with their juices. Sprinkle in the onion soup mix.
3️⃣ Add water & bring to a boil – Pour enough water into the pot to fully cover the ingredients. Place over medium-high heat and bring to a rolling boil.
4️⃣ Simmer – Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cabbage should become tender.
5️⃣ Season & taste – Add salt and black pepper if needed. If you want a little spice, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes.
6️⃣ Serve & enjoy – Once the cabbage is soft, ladle the hot soup into bowls and enjoy it warm
Notes
✅ Meal Prep Friendly – Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
✅ Freezer Option – Let the soup cool completely, then freeze in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.
✅ Customizable – Add extra vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers for more texture and flavor.
✅ Slow Cooker Option – Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours for an effortless meal
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30-40 minutes
Frequently Asked Questions About Cabbage Soup
1. Can I Make Cabbage Soup in a Slow Cooker?
Yes! Cabbage soup can be easily adapted for a slow cooker. Simply add all the ingredients to the slow cooker, cover with water, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, and the cabbage becomes perfectly tender without any extra effort.
2. What Can I Add to Make Cabbage Soup More Flavorful?
While the onion soup mix provides a great base of flavor, you can enhance your cabbage soup by adding:
- Fresh garlic and herbs like parsley, thyme, or bay leaves.
- A splash of lemon juice or apple cider vinegar for a subtle tang.
- Spices such as paprika, black pepper, or red pepper flakes for warmth.
- Vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers for added texture and taste.
3. Is Cabbage Soup Good for Weight Loss?
Cabbage soup is often associated with weight loss because it’s low in calories but high in fiber, making it filling and satisfying. Since it’s made mostly with vegetables and broth, it’s a great option for a light meal. However, balance is key—pairing it with proteins and healthy fats ensures a well-rounded diet.
4. Can I Make Cabbage Soup Without the Onion Soup Mix?
Absolutely! If you prefer a homemade version without the packaged soup mix, you can replace it with:
- 1 finely chopped onion sautéed in olive oil.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder.
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme or oregano.
- Salt and black pepper to taste