Cabbage Soup With Tomatoes Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, there are few dishes as universally satisfying as a hearty bowl of cabbage soup. The combination of crunchy cabbage, savory broth, and a medley of seasonings has been warming bellies and lifting spirits for generations. But today, we’re taking it up a notch by adding a burst of flavor with juicy tomatoes. This version of cabbage soup isn’t just a nourishing dish – it’s an explosion of freshness, earthiness, and umami that’s perfect for any time of the year.

Cabbage soup is one of those meals that has both tradition and versatility working in its favor. Whether you’re craving something light yet filling or looking to detox after a long weekend of indulgence, this soup has you covered. Plus, it’s one of those dishes that keeps giving – you can enjoy it straight away, or it gets even better with time. So, let’s dive in and get ready to make this warm, savory, and nourishing bowl of goodness!

Cabbage Soup With Tomatoes Recipe

This cabbage soup with tomatoes recipe is a simple yet flavorful take on a classic. The cabbage provides a subtle, tender crunch, and the tomatoes lend a rich, tangy depth that beautifully complements the delicate flavors of the broth. What’s great about this soup is its balance of texture and flavor, making each spoonful a little adventure in itself. It’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re in need of something light but satisfying.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s everything you need to bring this dish to life:

• Cabbage: The star of the dish, you’ll want a medium-sized head of cabbage, chopped into bite-sized pieces. Green cabbage is the most common, but feel free to use purple cabbage for a pop of color and extra nutrients.
• Tomatoes: You can use either fresh tomatoes (about 4-5 medium-sized) or canned tomatoes (two 14.5 oz cans). If using fresh, make sure to peel and chop them to ensure they cook down nicely in the soup.
• Carrots: About 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped. These add a bit of sweetness and color to the soup.
• Celery: 2-3 stalks of celery, chopped, for that wonderful aromatic depth.
• Onion: One medium onion, diced, for a foundational flavor that enhances everything.
• Garlic: 2-3 cloves, minced, for that savory kick.
• Vegetable or Chicken Broth: About 4-5 cups. You can adjust the quantity depending on how thick or soupy you prefer your cabbage soup.
• Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons to intensify the tomato flavor and thicken the broth.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing the vegetables and giving everything a nice, silky finish.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, thyme, bay leaves (2), and a pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat).
• Fresh Herbs (optional): A few sprigs of fresh parsley or dill to garnish.

Cooking Instructions

Ready to cook? Here’s a step-by-step guide to making your cabbage soup with tomatoes:

1. Prep The Vegetables

   • Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces.
   • Peel and slice the carrots.
   • Dice the onion and celery.
   • Mince the garlic.

2. Sauté The Aromatics

   • Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
   • Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until softened and fragrant.
   • Add the garlic and sauté for another 1 minute, ensuring it doesn’t burn.

3. Add The Cabbage

   • Add the chopped cabbage to the pot and cook for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cabbage will begin to soften and shrink down.

4. Incorporate The Tomatoes

   • Stir in the chopped fresh tomatoes (or canned tomatoes with their juices) and tomato paste. Mix everything thoroughly.

5. Pour In The Broth

   • Add 4-5 cups of vegetable or chicken broth to the pot. Stir to combine all the ingredients.

6. Season The Soup

   • Season with salt, pepper, thyme, bay leaves, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together and bring the soup to a simmer.

7. Simmer To Perfection

   • Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 30-45 minutes, uncovered, stirring occasionally. The cabbage should become tender and the flavors should meld together beautifully.

8. Adjust The Seasoning

   • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.

9. Serve And Garnish

   • Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley or dill, and enjoy!

Ingredient Insights

Each of the ingredients in this cabbage soup with tomatoes recipe is not only packed with flavor but also offers a range of nutritional benefits:

• Cabbage: A cruciferous vegetable, cabbage is low in calories but high in fiber and antioxidants like vitamin C and K. It’s known for its anti-inflammatory properties and supports digestive health.
• Tomatoes: Rich in lycopene (a powerful antioxidant), tomatoes are great for heart health and reducing the risk of certain cancers. They also provide a good source of vitamin C, potassium, and folate.
• Carrots: These vibrant orange vegetables are full of beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A. They’re excellent for maintaining healthy vision and skin.
• Celery: Packed with vitamin K and fiber, celery helps with digestion and is also known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It also adds a refreshing, crisp texture to the soup.
• Onions & Garlic: Both are natural anti-inflammatory foods that can help boost the immune system. Garlic, in particular, is known for its ability to fight off infections and lower blood pressure.
• Broth: Whether you choose vegetable or chicken broth, it’s a great way to infuse rich, savory flavor into the soup. Broth is also full of minerals and nutrients that help keep you hydrated.

Expert Tips

• For richer flavor: If you want a deeper, more robust flavor, try sautéing the cabbage with a little bit of butter or bacon fat before adding it to the soup. This will give the cabbage a caramelized flavor that really enhances the broth.
• Make it thicker: If you prefer a heartier, thicker soup, you can blend part of the soup using an immersion blender or by transferring a few cups to a regular blender. Just be sure to leave some chunks for texture!
• Add protein: While this recipe is perfect as a vegetarian dish, you can add protein by stirring in cooked chicken, beans, or even sausage. For a vegan option, consider adding some chickpeas or lentils.
• Make ahead: This soup actually tastes better the next day after the flavors have had more time to meld together. Make a big batch and store it in the fridge for a few days for an even more flavorful meal.
• Spice it up: Want a little heat? Add some chili powder or cayenne pepper to the soup base, or drizzle in some hot sauce before serving.

Recipe Variations

• Italian Twist: Add some Italian seasoning, a few tablespoons of pesto, and top the soup with grated Parmesan cheese for an Italian-inspired variation.
• Spicy Cabbage Soup: Kick up the heat with extra red pepper flakes or a finely chopped jalapeño. You could also try adding some smoked paprika for an extra smoky flavor.
• Cabbage and Beef Soup: Brown some ground beef or turkey and add it to the soup for a more filling, protein-packed version.
• Asian Influence: For an Asian-inspired cabbage soup, substitute soy sauce for salt, and add a bit of ginger and sesame oil. You can also throw in some mushrooms for added umami.

Final Words

This cabbage soup with tomatoes recipe is simple, satisfying, and adaptable. Whether you’re enjoying it as a light lunch, a side dish, or a warming dinner, it delivers on both flavor and comfort. It’s an incredibly flexible recipe that allows you to play around with ingredients and flavors, so you can make it your own. The best part? It’s a great way to enjoy a variety of healthy vegetables in a single, easy-to-make dish.