Old Fashioned Cabbage Soup Recipe

Cabbage soup has long been a comforting dish, offering a satisfying and hearty meal without requiring a long list of ingredients. It’s perfect for when you want something nourishing and simple.

This old-fashioned cabbage soup recipe features a medley of vegetables in a flavorful broth, making it a go-to dish for cold days or when you need a warm and healthy option.

1. Old-Fashioned Cabbage Soup Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 small head of cabbage
• 1 large onion
• 2-3 carrots
• 2-3 celery stalks
• 2 cloves garlic
• 3-4 medium potatoes
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
• 6 cups beef broth (or chicken/vegetable broth)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for sautéing)
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, for extra flavor

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables

Begin by chopping all the vegetables. Core and chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Dice the potatoes, peel and slice the carrots, and chop the celery. Mince the garlic and chop the onion. Having everything ready makes the cooking process smoother and more efficient.

Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. If you want to add a bit more depth of flavor, sauté the chopped onion and garlic for 2-3 minutes until they’re fragrant and soft. This step isn’t mandatory but gives a lovely base to the soup.

Cook the Soup

Add the carrots, celery, potatoes, and cabbage to the pot. Stir everything to combine and let it cook for another 5 minutes. This helps the vegetables begin to soften before adding the broth.

Add the Broth and Seasonings

Pour in the beef broth (or your preferred broth), and add the diced tomatoes with their juice. Drop in the bay leaf, dried thyme, dried parsley, smoked paprika, and a good pinch of salt and pepper.

Stir everything together, bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 30-40 minutes. This will allow all the flavors to meld together, and the vegetables will become tender.

Taste and Adjust

After the soup has simmered, taste it and adjust the seasoning. Add more salt, pepper, or paprika to suit your preferences. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Serve

Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately. You can enjoy it as is, or with a slice of crusty bread on the side for an even more comforting meal.

2. Tips for Perfect Old Fashioned Cabbage Soup

Use a good broth: The broth is the backbone of this soup, so make sure to use a flavorful one, whether it’s beef, chicken, or vegetable. I recommend a low-sodium broth so you can control the salt level yourself.

Don’t overcook the cabbage: Cabbage can turn mushy if overcooked, so it’s best to add it early in the cooking process but not let it cook for too long. You want it to maintain some texture.

Customize the vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables you have on hand, like bell peppers, parsnips, or green beans. This soup is versatile and a great way to clean out your fridge!

For extra flavor: Smoked paprika adds a smoky depth to the soup, which I absolutely love. But if you prefer a milder flavor, you can omit it.

3. Serving Suggestions

Old-fashioned cabbage soup can stand alone as a complete meal or be paired with a variety of sides.

For a hearty lunch or dinner, serve the soup with some freshly baked cornbread or a warm slice of whole-grain bread. It also pairs beautifully with a side salad for a light yet filling meal.

If you’re craving protein, adding a dollop of sour cream or grated cheese on top can elevate the flavors.

4. How to Store & Reheat Leftovers

Cabbage soup keeps well in the fridge for about 3-4 days, so it’s a great dish to make in advance for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. To store, let the soup cool to room temperature and transfer it to an airtight container.

When reheating, simply warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat until it’s heated through. You can also microwave individual servings for a quick meal. If you find the soup too thick after storing, you can add a bit more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

5. Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Add all the ingredients to your slow cooker, cover, and cook on LOW for 6-8 hours or on HIGH for 3-4 hours. Add any cooked meats or beans in the last hour of cooking.

Can I use red cabbage instead of green cabbage?

Yes, red cabbage can be used, but it will give the soup a different color and a slightly different flavor. The soup will have a more vibrant, purplish hue.

This old-fashioned cabbage soup is a comforting dish that’s packed with flavor and nutrients. Whether you’re making it for a family meal or preparing it ahead of time, this soup is perfect for cold days or when you’re craving something warm and hearty. Simple, wholesome, and easy to customize, this cabbage soup recipe is sure to become a favorite!

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