Hearty Cabbage Soup

Cabbage soup is the ultimate comfort food when you’re craving something hearty, wholesome, and easy to make. This cozy bowl is more than just a simple vegetable soup—it’s a nourishing one-pot wonder packed with tender cabbage, creamy potatoes, and a flavorful vegetable broth that warms you from the inside out. Whether you’re battling chilly weather or just need a budget-friendly dinner, cabbage soup delivers on all fronts.

Perfect for weeknights or meal prep, this dish comes together in just over 30 minutes and fills your kitchen with the comforting aroma of herbs and simmering veggies. Let’s break down what makes this cabbage soup a must-have recipe in your rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

this recipe

• One-Pot Simplicity: Everything cooks in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze—perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with everyday vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and potatoes, this recipe is as affordable as it is filling.
• Naturally Vegan & Gluten-Free: Wholesome ingredients with no fuss—no dairy, no gluten, just nourishing plant-based goodness.
• Flavor-Packed: Thanks to ingredients like caraway seeds, garlic, thyme, and fire-roasted tomatoes, every bite is deeply savory and satisfying.
• Hearty but Light: This isn’t a bland “diet soup.” It’s genuinely satisfying with chunky vegetables, yet still feels light and clean.
• Great for Meal Prep: Stays fresh in the fridge for days, and the flavors get even better after a night or two.

Whether you’re new to cabbage or a long-time fan, this soup proves that humble ingredients can deliver serious comfort.

Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this cozy cabbage soup:

• 1–2 tablespoons olive oil (or water for oil-free version)
• 1 yellow onion, diced
• 2 stalks celery, sliced
• 4 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ teaspoon black pepper (plus more to taste)
• 2 teaspoons fresh thyme (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 2 teaspoons caraway seeds (optional, but highly recommended)
• 2 cups gold potatoes, peeled and diced
• 10–12 cups green cabbage, chopped into 1” pieces (about 1 small head)
• 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes (fire-roasted preferred)
• 8 cups low-sodium vegetable broth (or 4 cups broth + 4 cups water)
• Salt to taste

Optional Add-ins:

• Chickpeas or white beans (for protein)
• Red pepper flakes (for heat)
• Fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or tarragon

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your delicious cabbage soup:

1. Sauté the Aromatics:
   In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté for 3–5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften and brown slightly.
2. Add Flavor Base:
   Stir in the minced garlic, black pepper, thyme, and caraway seeds. Cook for 1 minute, just until fragrant.
3. Add the Bulk:
   Pour in the diced potatoes, chopped cabbage, and crushed tomatoes. Stir well to combine.
4. Add the Broth & Simmer:
   Pour in the vegetable broth (or broth + water mix). Stir again. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce to medium-low. Simmer uncovered for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and translucent.
5. Taste & Adjust:
   Season with salt and extra pepper to taste. For a thicker soup, simmer a few minutes longer. For more broth, stir in an extra cup of water or broth.
6. Serve:
   Ladle into bowls and top with more freshly ground black pepper. Serve hot with crusty bread or a scoop of sauerkraut if desired.

Recipe Details

⏱️ Prep Time

• 10 minutes

🔥 Cook Time

• 25 minutes

🍽️ Total Time

• 35 minutes

🥣 Servings

• 6 to 8 servings

Nutrition Facts (approximate per serving)

• Calories: 170
• Protein: 4g
• Fat: 4g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 7g
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 550mg
• Vitamin A: High
• Vitamin C: High
• Iron: 8–10% DV

Note: Nutrition may vary depending on broth, oil, and optional add-ins.

Tips & Variations

🔪 Cooking Tips

• Don’t fear the cabbage pile: It may seem like too much at first, but cabbage cooks down significantly.
• Use freshly ground black pepper: It adds a bold, sharp finish and balances the sweetness of the carrots and cabbage.
• Let it sit: Like many soups, the flavor deepens after a day in the fridge—perfect for meal prep.

🥄 Variations

• Make it protein-packed: Add white beans (like Cannellini or Navy), chickpeas, or even lentils for a heartier bowl.
• Switch the starch: Try sweet potatoes or cauliflower instead of gold potatoes for a twist.
• Add a kick: Red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce brings subtle heat.
• Play with herbs: Dill, parsley, or tarragon can change the personality of the soup.
• Oil-free option: Dry toast the caraway seeds and use a splash of broth instead of oil when sautéing.

🍞 Serving Ideas

• Pair with crusty sourdough or a slice of olive loaf.
• Top with sauerkraut for tangy contrast.
• Serve alongside baked tempeh, crispy tofu, or cooked quinoa for a balanced meal.

Hearty Cabbage Soup

A cozy one-pot cabbage soup full of chunky vegetables, tender potatoes, and bold seasoning. Vegan, gluten-free, and perfect for meal prep or cold nights.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 7

Course: Soup

Cuisine: American

Calories: 180

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• – 1–2 tablespoons olive oil or water for oil-free
• – 1 yellow onion diced
• – 2 stalks celery sliced
• – 4 carrots peeled and sliced
• – 3 cloves garlic minced
• – ½ teaspoon black pepper plus more to taste
• – 2 teaspoons fresh thyme or 1 tsp dried
• – 2 teaspoons caraway seeds optional, but recommended
• – 2 cups gold potatoes peeled and diced
• – 10–12 cups green cabbage chopped into 1” pieces (about 1 small head)
• – 1 14.5 oz can crushed tomatoes (fire-roasted preferred)
• – 8 cups low-sodium vegetable broth or 4 cups broth + 4 cups water
• – Salt to taste

Equipment

• Large soup pot or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Sharp knife & cutting board

Method

 

1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, celery, and carrots. Sauté 3–5 minutes until lightly browned.
2. Stir in garlic, black pepper, thyme, and caraway seeds. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add potatoes, cabbage, and crushed tomatoes. Stir to combine.
4. Pour in vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
5. Simmer 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cabbage is tender.
6. Season with salt and more pepper to taste. Serve hot.

Notes

– **Oil-Free Option:** Dry-toast the caraway seeds, then sauté veggies in broth.
– **Storage:** Keeps 4–5 days in fridge or freeze for up to 2 months.
– **Make It Heartier:** Add white beans or chickpeas.

FAQs

How do I cut cabbage for soup?

Chop the cabbage into 1-inch wide strips or squares. First, cut the cabbage in half, remove the core, then slice and chop as needed. Smaller pieces cook faster and are easier to eat.

Can I overcook cabbage in soup?

Yes—while cabbage does soften beautifully, overcooking can make it mushy and sulfurous. Simmer just until it’s tender and translucent, about 12–15 minutes.

Can I freeze cabbage soup?

Technically yes, but note that the texture of cabbage may change and become softer once thawed. For best results, freeze in airtight containers for up to 2 months and reheat gently.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Add all ingredients to your slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6–7 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours. Stir occasionally if possible. Perfect for busy days!

Is this cabbage soup good for weight loss?

While this isn’t a “cabbage soup diet” recipe, it’s naturally low in calories, high in fiber, and filling. It’s a nourishing option for anyone looking to eat more veggies.

Conclusion

Cabbage soup is the kind of meal that reminds you just how satisfying simple ingredients can be. With its rich, veggie-packed broth and perfectly tender cabbage, this dish delivers comfort by the spoonful—no matter the season. Whether you’re looking for a cozy winter warmer or a nourishing weeknight staple, this recipe deserves a permanent spot in your kitchen.