Cabbage Soup Vegan Recipe

Cabbage soup is one of those comforting dishes that hits all the right notes-hearty, nourishing, and full of flavor. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking to eat lighter, follow a plant-based diet, or just enjoy a bowl of something warm on a chilly day, cabbage soup is a go-to recipe.

This vegan cabbage soup recipe takes the classic to the next level, focusing on wholesome, plant-based ingredients that pack in flavor without relying on animal products. It’s the kind of dish that’s easy to tweak based on what’s in your pantry, making it a perfect solution for meal planning or those days when you don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.

Let’s dive into how you can whip up this simple yet delicious cabbage soup and make it your own!

Cabbage Soup Vegan Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make this vegan cabbage soup, you’ll need some basic pantry staples and fresh vegetables. Here’s the list of ingredients you’ll need to gather before getting started:

• Green cabbage: This is the star of the dish. Opt for a medium-sized head of cabbage-it’s hearty and gives the soup a substantial texture.
• Carrots: Add sweetness and a burst of color. They also provide a nice contrast to the cabbage’s crunch.
• Celery: The mild, earthy flavor of celery deepens the soup’s profile. It’s one of those ingredients that adds subtle depth.
• Onions: A base flavor that adds umami and rounds out the soup’s flavor.
• Garlic: Essential for infusing the soup with a rich aroma and depth. A few cloves finely chopped or minced will do the trick.
• Vegetable broth: Use a good-quality vegetable broth for a savory base. Homemade or store-bought, this adds richness to the soup without needing animal products.
• Tomatoes: You can use fresh tomatoes or canned diced tomatoes. They bring a bit of acidity and brightness to balance the richness of the broth.
• Olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables at the start.
• Seasonings: A mix of salt, black pepper, thyme, oregano, and bay leaves will work wonders. Feel free to adjust based on your preference.
• Lemon juice (optional): A splash of lemon juice at the end can help brighten up the flavors.

Cooking Instructions

Here’s how you can make this easy and tasty cabbage soup:

1. Prep The Vegetables

   • Start by washing your vegetables thoroughly. Peel and chop the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery into small, bite-sized pieces. Cut the cabbage into thin strips.

2. Sauté The Base

   • Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the onions and sauté them for about 5 minutes until they’re softened and translucent.
   • Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds to a minute, letting the aroma fill your kitchen.
   • Toss in the carrots and celery and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they start to soften as well.

3. Add The Cabbage And Broth

   • Once the veggies are softened, add the chopped cabbage to the pot. Stir everything together for a couple of minutes to allow the cabbage to wilt a little.
   • Pour in the vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add the diced tomatoes (or fresh tomatoes if using) and bay leaves. Stir in your seasonings (thyme, oregano, salt, pepper) and bring everything to a boil.

4. Simmer

   • Once the soup has reached a boil, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes or until all the vegetables are tender, and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally.

5. Finish The Soup

   • Taste and adjust the seasoning. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or even a bit of lemon juice for extra brightness.
   • Once everything is perfectly seasoned, remove the soup from heat.

6. Serve And Enjoy

   • Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy! You can top it with some fresh herbs like parsley or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

Ingredient Insights

• Cabbage: A powerhouse of nutrients, cabbage is a great source of vitamins K and C, as well as fiber. It’s also very low in calories, making it an excellent addition to any weight-conscious or detox diet.
• Carrots: These root vegetables are packed with beta-carotene, which your body converts into vitamin A. Carrots also contain fiber and antioxidants that help keep your immune system strong.
• Celery: While celery may seem unassuming, it’s a great source of vitamin K, antioxidants, and minerals like potassium. Plus, it’s very hydrating thanks to its high water content.
• Garlic: Garlic isn’t just for flavor-it’s loaded with allicin, a compound known for its health benefits, including immune-boosting properties and its ability to promote heart health.
• Tomatoes: Rich in vitamins A and C, tomatoes provide a tangy sweetness to the soup, while also contributing to the soup’s rich antioxidant profile, specifically lycopene, which is known for supporting heart health.

Expert Tips

• Don’t Skip the Sauté Step: Sautéing the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery at the beginning is crucial for developing a deep, rich flavor. Skipping this can result in a more ’flat’ soup.
• Adjust the Texture: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of the soup once it’s cooked (about 2 cups) and then return it to the pot to make it more creamy. Alternatively, add some cooked lentils or beans to boost the texture and protein content.
• Make it Spicy: Want a little heat? Add red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when sautéing the veggies. The spice will infuse beautifully into the broth.
• Storing: This soup keeps well in the fridge for about 4-5 days. You can also freeze it in individual portions, which makes for an easy lunch or dinner option later on.
• Seasoning Variations: If you like experimenting with spices, feel free to try adding smoked paprika, cumin, or a pinch of turmeric. These can add unique depth and flavor.

Recipe Variations

• Add Beans: For a heartier soup, toss in some cooked white beans, chickpeas, or kidney beans. Not only does this up the protein content, but it also gives the soup a creamy texture.
• Spicy Cabbage Soup: If you like a bit of a kick, you can include some crushed red pepper flakes, chili powder, or even a diced hot pepper like serrano or jalapeño.
• Herb-Infused: Experiment with fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or rosemary. Adding a handful of fresh herbs at the end can really elevate the soup’s flavor.
• Add Potatoes: Diced potatoes make a great addition to this soup, giving it even more texture and making it more filling. Just add them when you’re simmering the vegetables.

Final Words

This vegan cabbage soup recipe is an absolute winner when it comes to simplicity and flavor. It’s incredibly flexible, so you can add or adjust ingredients depending on what’s in your fridge or pantry. Whether you’re looking for a healthy detox meal, a light lunch, or a filling dinner, this soup can easily fit the bill.