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Best Cabbage Soup to Warm Your Soul

As the crisp air wraps around your home and leaves start to crunch underfoot, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to fill your heart and soul. This Best Cabbage Soup is the ultimate cozy dish you can whip up easily to nourish not just your body, but also your spirit. Imagine the scent of sautéing garlic mingling with earthy spices, as colorful vegetables bubble gently in a hearty broth. Each spoonful is a comforting embrace, transporting you back to cherished memories of family gatherings and cozy nights spent together.

This recipe is especially perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a cozy meal prep option that can be enjoyed throughout the week. With autumn in full swing, you’ll want to pin this recipe for the chilly days ahead!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Heartwarming Comfort: Filled with vibrant vegetables and aromatic spices, this cabbage soup is like a warm hug in a bowl.
Easy Weeknight Dinner: With just 30 minutes of hands-on time, it’s perfect for busy evenings.
Nutritious Goodness: Packed with vitamins from cabbage and fiber from lentils, it’s a health-conscious choice.
Customizable: You can easily adjust the spices and ingredients based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences.
Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze portions for a ready-made meal on those extra chilly nights.

What You’ll Need

Gather these simple ingredients to create your Best Cabbage Soup:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion (small dice)
3 medium carrots (small dice)
3 ribs celery (small dice)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 teaspoon oregano
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
1/2 teaspoon paprika
Pinch of cayenne (optional)
2 tablespoons tomato paste
6 cups vegetable broth (preferably low sodium)
1 (14-ounce) can diced fire roasted tomatoes (or regular diced tomatoes)
1 cup dried red lentils (rinsed)
1 small green cabbage (shredded)
Zest and juice from 1/2 lemon (plus more as needed)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
1/3 cup chopped parsley (for garnish)

How to Make Best Cabbage Soup to Warm Your Soul

Let’s make it together! Follow these simple steps to create your cozy soup:

Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, cooking for about 5 minutes, or until just tender.
Stir in the minced garlic along with the oregano, cumin, paprika, and cayenne. Cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
Mix in the tomato paste and stir constantly for another minute. Pour in the vegetable broth, then add the diced tomatoes, and stir in the red lentils.
Gradually mix in the shredded cabbage, pressing each batch down to submerge it in the liquid.
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover. Let it simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally for even cooking.
Add the lemon zest and juice, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Delicious Variations to Try

Feel free to put your spin on this comforting classic! Here are some fun ways to customize it:

Add Protein: Include cooked turkey bacon or shredded chicken for an extra hearty twist.
Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, throw in some chopped jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha.
Creamy Finish: Stir in a dollop of plain yogurt or heavy cream just before serving for a luscious texture.
Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or dill for a refreshing touch that complements the cabbage beautifully.

Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips

Make-Ahead Advice: This soup can be cooked in advance and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Ingredient Swaps: If you don’t have red lentils, green or brown lentils will work too, but you may need to increase the cooking time.
Slicing Tricks: For the cabbage, you can buy pre-shredded cabbage if you’re short on time, but fresh always tastes best!
Storage Suggestions: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

What’s Inside – Nutrition Breakdown

Per serving (approximately 1.5 cups):

Calories: 200
Carbs: 36g
Sugar: 6g
Fat: 3g
Protein: 9g
Sodium: 300mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! This soup pairs beautifully with meal prep and can be enjoyed later in the week.

Can I use different ingredients?
Yes! Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or legumes based on what you have on hand.

How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

How long does it last?
When properly stored, this soup can last for up to 5 days in the refrigerator.

A Cozy Closing Note

This Best Cabbage Soup to Warm Your Soul is truly a dish that wraps you in warmth and comfort. With its hearty ingredients and simple preparation, it’s no wonder it’s become a cherished recipe in homes everywhere. Save this recipe to your cozy meals board so it’s ready when you need a little comfort food in your life. Happy cooking!