If you’re looking to shed a few pounds, feel lighter, or simply enjoy a nutrient-packed meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious, then cabbage skinny soup might be exactly what you need. This vibrant, low-calorie soup is packed with flavor, easy to make, and versatile enough to fit into various eating plans, from keto to vegan diets. But more than just a weight-loss staple, cabbage skinny soup is a hearty and healthy option to keep you full without the guilt.
The beauty of cabbage soup lies not only in its simplicity but in how it transforms cabbage, a vegetable often underestimated for its potential, into something rich, satisfying, and full of benefits. Whether you’re looking to do a detox or just need a quick and healthy meal, this soup is the answer.
Cabbage Skinny Soup Recipe
The recipe for cabbage skinny soup is pretty straightforward, and the ingredients are minimal, yet the result is a flavorful, filling dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Cabbage is the star of the show here, and its natural sweetness, when combined with other hearty vegetables and a well-balanced broth, creates a taste explosion that’s much more exciting than its simple ingredients might suggest.
Ingredients Needed
For this low-calorie wonder, you’ll need:
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped (this is the base and main ingredient)
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil (for sautéing the veggies)
- 1 large onion, chopped (adds sweetness and depth)
- 2 garlic cloves, minced (for a punch of flavor)
- 2 carrots, sliced thinly (sweetness and texture)
- 3 celery stalks, chopped (adds crunch and a savory undertone)
- 1 bell pepper, chopped (for color and flavor)
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth if you prefer; this is your soup base)
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced (adds freshness and slight acidity)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (a savory herb to add depth)
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (another layer of savory notes)
- 1 teaspoon turmeric (for a golden color and anti-inflammatory benefits)
- Salt and pepper to taste (always adjust these for your preference)
- 1-2 cups of water (to adjust consistency as needed)
Feel free to tweak the amounts or swap out veggies based on what you have in your kitchen.
Cooking Instructions
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Prepare The Ingredients
- Chop the cabbage, carrots, celery, onion, and bell pepper. Mince the garlic and dice the tomatoes.
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Sauté The Aromatics
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
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Add The Vegetables
- Toss in the carrots, celery, bell pepper, and cabbage. Sauté for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to allow the vegetables to soften and mingle with the flavors.
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Add The Liquid And Seasonings
- Pour in the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and 1-2 cups of water (depending on how thick or thin you like your soup). Stir in the thyme, basil, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a boil.
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Simmer To Perfection
- Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and fully cooked. Stir occasionally.
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Taste And Adjust
- Taste the soup for seasoning and adjust if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs if desired.
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Serve
- Ladle into bowls and serve hot. You can add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a burst of color and freshness!
Ingredient Insights
- Cabbage: Low in calories and high in fiber, cabbage is an amazing vegetable for weight loss. It’s also rich in antioxidants like vitamin C, which helps support the immune system.
- Carrots and Celery: These vegetables are packed with vitamins and minerals, but they also help in adding texture to the soup. Carrots bring a slight sweetness, and celery offers a satisfying crunch.
- Garlic and Onion: Not only do these aromatic vegetables give the soup a wonderful flavor, but they also have anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. Garlic is particularly known for its ability to support heart health and lower blood pressure.
- Tomatoes: Adding tomatoes not only gives the soup a fresh and tangy flavor but they’re packed with lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that supports skin health and provides anti-cancer benefits.
- Herbs and Spices: The herbs in this recipe-basil, thyme, and turmeric-don’t just elevate the flavor; they bring their own health benefits, from anti-inflammatory effects (turmeric) to digestive support (basil and thyme).
Expert Tips
- Customization: This soup is super customizable. You can add beans, peas, or even chicken for extra protein. Want more flavor? Try a splash of apple cider vinegar or a dollop of hot sauce!
- Storage: Cabbage soup keeps well in the fridge for about 4-5 days, making it great for meal prep. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months-just be sure to cool it completely before transferring it into freezer-safe containers.
- Broth Choices: If you’re looking to make the soup lighter, stick to vegetable broth. If you’re after a richer, deeper flavor, opt for a chicken broth or beef broth.
- Seasoning: Don’t be afraid to go heavy on the spices. They are what bring out the richness in this otherwise simple soup. Fresh herbs are a great finishing touch, so add them at the end of cooking.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Cabbage Soup: If you like heat, try adding a diced jalapeño or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes while sautéing the vegetables.
- Creamy Cabbage Soup: For a creamy version, blend part of the soup with an immersion blender or in a regular blender until smooth. Add a splash of cream or coconut milk to enrich it.
- Meat Lovers’ Cabbage Soup: For a heartier option, you can add lean ground turkey, chicken breast, or even beef into the soup. Just brown it first before adding it with the vegetables.
- Cabbage Detox Soup: Skip the broth and add water for a lighter version. You can also add some lemon zest and juice at the end for a fresh twist.
Final Words
Cabbage skinny soup is one of those recipes that’s simple to make but offers so much versatility. It’s budget-friendly, nutritious, and can be adjusted to fit your tastes and dietary needs. Plus, it’s a wonderful option when you’re trying to eat clean, reset, or just want something hearty without the heavy calories. The best part? It doesn’t feel like you’re sacrificing flavor for health!
Whether you’re on a health journey or just looking for a quick, satisfying meal, cabbage skinny soup is a great option to add to your rotation. It’s quick, easy, and can be made in bulk to last for days.