Cabbage Soup With Onion Soup Mix Recipe

When it comes to comfort food that’s both hearty and health-conscious, the Cabbage Soup with Onion Soup Mix stands out as a crowd-pleaser. This simple yet flavorful soup has been around for years, often touted for its versatility, ease of preparation, and ability to be tailored to your preferences. Whether you’re looking to lose a few pounds or simply enjoy a cozy bowl of something light yet satisfying, this cabbage soup checks all the boxes.

The star ingredient here is, of course, cabbage. A humble vegetable that’s often underappreciated, cabbage is high in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, making it the perfect base for a filling, nutritious soup. Paired with onion soup mix, the flavor profile is elevated with savory depth and a slight richness that makes it irresistibly good. This recipe can be a great addition to your weekly rotation for meal prepping or an easy weeknight dinner.

Cabbage Soup With Onion Soup Mix Recipe

So, how do you make this simple yet satisfying soup? It’s incredibly easy! You’ll be amazed by how such a basic list of ingredients can come together to create something so delicious. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced home cook, this cabbage soup will quickly become a go-to in your recipe repertoire.

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need for this cabbage soup with onion soup mix recipe:

• 1 medium head of cabbage – Chop it up into bite-sized pieces. Fresh cabbage is the main base of the soup, so you want a good amount.
• 1 packet of onion soup mix – This is the magic ingredient that adds savory depth and umami to the soup without any fuss. It brings everything together in the most effortless way.
• 4 cups of vegetable broth or chicken broth – The broth is the liquid foundation of the soup. You can use either, depending on your preference or dietary needs.
• 1 can of diced tomatoes (14.5 oz) – Tomatoes add a slight tanginess that balances the richness of the soup mix and the cabbage.
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter – For sautéing the cabbage and giving it a little extra flavor.
• 1 medium onion – Diced. This enhances the oniony flavor while adding texture.
• 2 cloves garlic – Minced. Garlic is a must for any savory soup; it adds a lovely aromatic quality.
• Salt and pepper – To taste. These will help elevate the other flavors.
• Optional extras – A dash of red pepper flakes for heat, or some herbs like thyme or parsley for an added layer of flavor.

Cooking Instructions

Making cabbage soup with onion soup mix is a breeze. Here’s a step-by-step guide to bring it all together:

1. Prep the ingredients: Start by chopping the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, and open the can of diced tomatoes. Have everything ready to go, so it’s easier to cook.
2. Sauté the onion and garlic: Heat olive oil (or butter) in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes, until it becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently to avoid burning the garlic.
3. Cook the cabbage: Toss the chopped cabbage into the pot. Stir it around with the onions and garlic, cooking it for about 5 minutes, just enough for it to wilt slightly.
4. Add the broth and tomatoes: Pour in the vegetable (or chicken) broth and add the can of diced tomatoes (including the juice). Stir to combine.
5. Add the onion soup mix: Sprinkle in the onion soup mix, stirring well so it dissolves and distributes evenly throughout the soup.
6. Simmer the soup: Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30-45 minutes. The cabbage will soften and soak up all the delicious flavors.
7. Season: Taste the soup and add salt, pepper, and optional extras (like red pepper flakes) to your liking.
8. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy hot! Garnish with fresh herbs if desired for a little extra flavor and visual appeal.

Ingredient Insights

To truly understand the magic of this soup, let’s break down some of the key ingredients:

• Cabbage: It’s low-calorie, high in fiber, and full of vitamins C and K. Cabbage is incredibly versatile and adds volume to the soup without adding extra calories. Its slightly sweet and earthy flavor becomes more pronounced when cooked, making it a great base.
• Onion Soup Mix: This packet of seasoning is a blend of dehydrated onions, garlic, herbs, and salt. It’s packed with umami, which helps deepen the overall flavor of the soup without needing to use a ton of ingredients. It’s the shortcut you didn’t know you needed in your kitchen.
• Broth: The broth you choose will significantly affect the taste of the soup. Vegetable broth will offer a lighter, plant-based flavor, while chicken broth brings a richer, savory depth.
• Diced Tomatoes: They add a sweet and tangy balance to the soup. Tomatoes are also rich in antioxidants, making this soup not only tasty but also packed with nutrients.

Expert Tips

• Don’t overcook the cabbage: If you cook the cabbage for too long, it can turn mushy. Aim for a tender yet still slightly crunchy texture to preserve the dish’s heartiness.
• Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have time to meld. It’s great for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
• Add protein: If you’d like to make the soup a bit more filling, try adding cooked chicken, turkey, or beans. You can also add tofu or lentils for a vegetarian version that still packs a protein punch.
• Enhance flavor: Consider adding fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves while simmering. They’ll infuse the soup with a fragrant, earthy note.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Cabbage Soup: Add a tablespoon of sriracha or a few dashes of hot sauce to give the soup a kick. You can also throw in some fresh or dried chili peppers for an extra layer of heat.
• Asian-Inspired: Swap out the onion soup mix for soy sauce or miso paste. Add some grated ginger, sesame oil, and a handful of bok choy or mushrooms for an Asian twist.
• Add Some Creaminess: If you prefer a creamier version, add a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk in the last few minutes of cooking. This will give the soup a velvety texture and a richer flavor.
• Vegetarian Version: Use vegetable broth and skip the meat-based options. Add extra veggies like carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for a more vibrant, colorful soup.

Final Words

This cabbage soup with onion soup mix is proof that simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. The ease of preparation, the warm and comforting flavors, and the fact that it’s easily customizable make it a winning choice for any time of the year. Whether you’re craving a healthy lunch, a cozy dinner, or a flavorful meal to help you stay on track with your wellness goals, this soup has got you covered.

You can experiment with ingredients, tweak the recipe to your preferences, and add your personal touch. It’s the type of dish that feels like home-simple, fulfilling, and packed with love.