When you think of hearty, flavorful soups, you probably imagine complex recipes packed with a variety of meats, broths, and spices. But what if I told you that you could create a fulfilling, nutritious soup with one of the simplest ingredients on the planet? Enter cabbage soup without meat – a humble yet remarkably satisfying dish that is not only packed with nutrients but also incredibly versatile. Whether you’re trying to eat lighter, reduce your meat consumption, or simply want something comforting and easy, this cabbage soup will quickly become one of your favorite go-to meals.
Cabbage, a vegetable often underappreciated, shines in this soup by absorbing all the aromatic flavors from the broth and herbs. The best part? It’s low-calorie, rich in fiber, and full of vitamins, making it a guilt-free delight. So, let’s dive into the world of cabbage soup and explore how this simple dish can become your next kitchen masterpiece!
Cabbage Soup Without Meat Recipe
This cabbage soup is a true crowd-pleaser for anyone seeking a healthy, light meal. It’s perfect for those following vegetarian or vegan diets, or anyone who wants to cut back on meat. It’s a versatile dish that you can tweak according to what you have on hand.
Ingredients Needed
To make this cabbage soup, you’ll need a few basic ingredients, many of which you might already have in your pantry or fridge. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cabbage: The star of the show! You’ll need a medium-sized head of cabbage, which will break down into soft, silky pieces in the soup.
- Carrots: One or two medium carrots, sliced thinly, will bring a natural sweetness to balance the slight bitterness of cabbage.
- Celery: A couple of stalks, chopped. Celery adds a crisp texture and a mild, fresh flavor that complements the cabbage well.
- Onion: One large onion, finely chopped, will help create a savory base for the broth.
- Garlic: A few cloves of garlic, minced. Garlic brings an aromatic intensity that fills the soup with flavor.
- Vegetable Broth: This will be the base of your soup, and it’s where you get that hearty, savory flavor. Feel free to use store-bought or homemade vegetable broth.
- Tomatoes: One can of diced tomatoes or fresh tomatoes, depending on what you have on hand. Tomatoes add a bit of acidity and depth.
- Bay Leaves: A couple of bay leaves will add a subtle, earthy aroma to the broth.
- Herbs and Spices: Thyme, pepper, salt, and a pinch of red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat). These will season the soup and add a warm, cozy flavor.
- Olive Oil: A tablespoon of olive oil for sautéing the onions, garlic, and veggies at the beginning.
- Lemon Juice (optional): A squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving can help brighten the flavor.
Cooking Instructions
Making cabbage soup is relatively straightforward, and the cooking process is simple. Here’s how to bring this nutritious, delicious soup to life:
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Prepare The Veggies
- Begin by chopping your cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
- Slice the carrots, chop the celery, and dice the onion.
- Mince the garlic cloves. If you’re using fresh tomatoes, chop them into small chunks.
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Sauté The Base
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the onions and garlic, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Toss in the carrots and celery, and cook for another 3-4 minutes. These veggies will start to release their aromas and soften.
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Add The Broth And Tomatoes
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add the diced tomatoes (with their juices). Stir to combine.
- Drop in the bay leaves, thyme, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This seasoning will create the flavorful base of the soup.
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Simmer The Soup
- Bring the soup to a simmer over medium heat, then add the cabbage. Stir everything together.
- Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together.
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Finishing Touches
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes, depending on your preference.
- For a little extra brightness, squeeze a bit of fresh lemon juice over the top before serving.
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Serve And Enjoy
- Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh herbs if desired, and serve it hot with some crusty bread on the side for dipping!
Ingredient Insights
- Cabbage: Not only is cabbage the main ingredient, but it’s also a powerhouse of nutrients. It’s packed with vitamin K, vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. Plus, cabbage is low in calories, making it a great option for weight management.
- Carrots: Full of beta-carotene (a form of vitamin A), carrots are excellent for eye health and provide a natural sweetness that balances the soup’s savory base.
- Celery: While celery might not seem exciting, it adds a satisfying crunch and a light, fresh flavor that makes the soup feel more vibrant.
- Tomatoes: Tomatoes provide acidity and umami, which helps round out the flavors and keeps the soup from being too one-dimensional.
- Herbs and Spices: The combination of thyme and bay leaves imparts a subtle earthiness, while red pepper flakes give the soup a touch of heat, perfect for colder months.
Expert Tips
- Enhance the Flavor: If you want a more pronounced flavor, roast your vegetables in the oven before adding them to the soup. This caramelization will bring out a richer, sweeter taste.
- Make It Creamy: For a creamy version of this soup, try adding a splash of coconut milk or blending part of the soup after it’s cooked. This will give the soup a velvety texture.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh thyme or parsley as a garnish at the end will add a burst of freshness and a lovely aromatic touch.
- Slow Cooker Option: You can make this soup in a slow cooker! Just combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
- Storage: This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days. It’s also freezer-friendly, so feel free to make a big batch and store it for later.
Recipe Variations
One of the best things about cabbage soup is its flexibility. Here are a few variations you can try:
- Add Beans: For more protein, add a can of white beans, kidney beans, or chickpeas. They’ll absorb the flavors of the broth while adding heartiness to the soup.
- Add Potatoes: Diced potatoes make the soup even more filling and comforting. Just add them along with the carrots and celery.
- Spicy Version: If you like heat, increase the red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño pepper when sautéing the onions and garlic.
- Asian Twist: Add a tablespoon of soy sauce, some ginger, and a splash of sesame oil for an Asian-inspired version of cabbage soup. Top with chopped green onions and a sprinkle of sesame seeds.
- Herby Broth: Add some fresh rosemary, dill, or basil for a unique herb profile that takes this soup in a totally different direction.
Final Words
Cabbage soup without meat is one of those dishes that proves you don’t need a ton of ingredients to make something hearty and flavorful. The natural flavors of the cabbage, vegetables, and spices meld beautifully in a warm broth that will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished. Plus, it’s so customizable-whether you want to add more veggies, beans, or try a different seasoning, you can tweak the recipe to suit your personal taste.