This Old Fashioned Cabbage Soup is a hearty, comforting dish that has stood the test of time. It’s a simple, rustic soup made with basic ingredients like cabbage, potatoes, carrots, and flavorful broth—perfect for cool weather or when you need a nourishing meal. This recipe is easy to make, budget-friendly, and can be customized with your favorite ingredients.
1. Old Fashioned Cabbage Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 small head of cabbage, cored and chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2-3 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2-3 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3-4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 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
Step 1. Prepare the Vegetables
Chop the cabbage, onion, carrots, celery, and potatoes into bite-sized pieces.
Mince the garlic.
Step 2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic (Optional)
In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
Next, add the onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until softened. Then add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3. Add the Vegetables and Broth
To the pot, add the chopped cabbage, carrots, celery, and potatoes.
Pour in the beef broth (or your preferred broth) and the can of diced tomatoes with their juice.
Step 4. Add Seasonings
Stir in the bay leaf, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. If you’re adding smoked paprika, this is the time to mix it in.
Bring the soup to a boil over medium-high heat.
Step 5. Simmer the Soup
Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 6. Taste and Adjust
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt or pepper if desired.
Step 7. Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. You can garnish with fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
2. Serving Suggestions
Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of warm, crusty bread or buttered rolls for dipping.
With a Salad: A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette pairs nicely with the hearty soup.
Grated Cheese: Sprinkle a little grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese on top for extra richness.
3. Variations
Add Smoked Meats: If you like smoky flavors, add bacon, ham, or smoked sausage to the soup.
Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth and add more beans ( kidney beans or white beans), lentils, or extra veggies like zucchini or spinach.
Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper for a little heat.
4. How to Store and Reheat
Refrigerator: Store leftover cabbage soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.
Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.
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!
