If you’re looking for a cozy, nourishing bowl that’s bursting with fresh flavors and wholesome goodness, this Easy Cabbage Soup Recipe is your new go-to. It brings together vibrant cabbage, sweet carrots, and aromatic celery in a delicate broth that’s both comforting and light. The combo of fragrant spices and fresh parsley lifts every spoonful, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a wholesome meal prep. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, using simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white enamel pot with red handles sits on a white marbled surface, filled with a colorful mix of vegetables being cooked. The bottom layer shows diced onions, vibrant orange carrot slices, and crunchy green celery pieces, all softened and slightly shiny from cooking. On top of this base, large chunks and wide strips of fresh light green cabbage cover the vegetables, creating a mix of smooth and folded textures. A wooden spoon rests inside the pot, stirring the cabbage among the other vegetables. Part of a white cloth with black specks lies near the pot handle. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

This Easy Cabbage Soup Recipe only requires a handful of straightforward ingredients, each playing an important role in building the depth of flavor, texture, and nutritional value. Fresh veggies bring crunch and sweetness, while the spices quietly do their magic to make every bite irresistible.

1 tbsp butter: Adds richness and helps sauté the veggies for a flavorful base.
1 cup onion, diced: Provides a gentle sweetness and aromatic foundation.
1 cup carrots, sliced: Adds a subtle sweetness and lovely color contrast.
1/2 cup celery, diced: Gives a mild, savory crunch and enhances the broth’s body.
1 tsp garlic, minced: Imparts warmth and depth to the soup’s flavor profile.
5 cups cabbage, chopped (about 1/2 head of green cabbage): The star ingredient offering fiber, nutrients, and a tender bite.
2 14 oz. cans petite diced tomatoes (preferably with garlic and basil): Infuses a bright, tangy tomato presence that complements the veggies.
4 cups Vegetable or Chicken Stock, low sodium: Forms the flavorful, comforting liquid base.
1/4 tsp fennel seeds, crushed: Introduces a subtle anise-like aroma that’s unexpectedly delightful.
1/4 tsp ground coriander seeds: Adds a mild citrusy note enhancing the overall taste.
1/8 tsp ground cumin: Brings a warm earthiness that rounds out the spices.
1/2 tsp salt, or to taste: Balances and elevates all the flavors.
1/4 tsp black pepper: Offers a gentle heat to keep things lively without overpowering.
1 tbsp freshly chopped parsley: A fresh sprinkle that brightens the finished soup with herbaceous notes.

How to Make Easy Cabbage Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating 1 tablespoon of butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. Once melted and shimmering, toss in the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 4 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until you can smell that gorgeous garlic aroma filling your kitchen.

Step 2: Add Cabbage and Tomatoes

Next, add the chopped cabbage to the pot, stirring everything together so the cabbage starts to soften and mingle with the other veggies. Pour in the petite diced tomatoes along with their juices to bring a lovely tang and vibrant red color to the soup.

Step 3: Pour in the Broth and Spices

Pour 4 cups of low sodium vegetable or chicken stock into the pot to create a comforting broth. Sprinkle in the crushed fennel seeds, ground coriander, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir all the ingredients together to evenly distribute the spices, then bring the mixture up to a gentle boil.

Step 4: Simmer Until Tender

Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and cover the pot with a lid. Let your soup simmer for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until all the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded into a harmonious, delicious combination.

Step 5: Finish with Fresh Parsley

Turn off the heat, sprinkle in the freshly chopped parsley for a burst of fresh, green brightness, and give it one last gentle stir. Your Easy Cabbage Soup Recipe is now ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Easy Cabbage Soup Recipe

A white bowl filled with clear orange broth layered with light greenish-yellow cabbage leaves with soft, wrinkled texture, bright orange carrot slices, and red tomato chunks scattered throughout. Small bits of green parsley garnish float on the surface, adding color contrast. A metal spoon rests in the bowl on the right side, partially submerged. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, emphasizing the fresh colors of the soup. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley is classic, but feel free to jazz up your bowl with a dollop of sour cream or a few shavings of Parmesan cheese for extra creaminess. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a nice kick if you prefer some heat.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or warm garlic toast to soak up every last bit of the broth. For a heartier meal, serve alongside a simple green salad or roasted root vegetables to complement the soup’s wholesome flavors.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, ladle the soup into hollowed-out bread bowls which make an edible serving vessel, perfect for impressing guests. Or, serve it in clear glass mugs for an inviting presentation that lets the vibrant colors shine through.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Easy Cabbage Soup Recipe stores beautifully in the fridge for up to 4 days. Keep it in an airtight container to maintain freshness and flavor. When you’re ready, just reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Freezing

To enjoy this soup any time, freeze leftovers in portion-sized containers. It freezes well for up to 3 months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to keep the veggies tender and flavors bright.

Reheating

Reheat your soup on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Adding a splash of broth or water can refresh the texture if it thickened in the fridge. Avoid boiling to keep the cabbage crisp-tender and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use other types of cabbage in this Easy Cabbage Soup Recipe?

Absolutely! While green cabbage is traditional, you can try savoy or Napa cabbage for a different texture and flavor. Just adjust the cooking time slightly as these varieties can be more delicate.

Is this soup suitable for vegetarians?

Yes! Simply use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock to keep it completely vegetarian-friendly without sacrificing any of the delicious flavor.

Can I add protein to this soup?

Definitely. Adding cooked beans, lentils, or shredded chicken can turn this into a heartier meal. Just stir them in towards the end of cooking to warm through.

How spicy is the soup?

This recipe is mild and flavorful with gentle warmth from the spices. If you like it spicier, try adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when serving.

What’s the best way to chop the cabbage?

Slice the cabbage into bite-sized pieces or thin shreds depending on your texture preference. Keep the pieces uniform so they cook evenly during simmering.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Easy Cabbage Soup Recipe enough! It’s simple, healthy, and absolutely delicious with fresh veggies and warm spices that feel like a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re a seasoned soup lover or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become one of your favorites. Give it a try and watch it become your comfort food staple!