Every time I make this Cabbage Soup, it reminds me of chilly winter evenings spent with my family. The scent of simmering vegetables fills my cozy kitchen, wrapping me in a warm embrace that feels like home. Growing up, my mother made this dish often, and as a child, I remember sitting at the dinner table, waiting with excitement. The comfort that a simple bowl of cabbage soup brings is unbeatable! I can still hear my children laughing and chatting over steaming bowls, their faces lighting up with the first taste of that warm broth.

This recipe holds a special place in my heart, and I just know that once you try it, you’ll feel that same warmth and comfort too. It’s not just about the ingredients; it’s about the love and memories that come with every spoonful. So grab your apron, and let’s dive into making this lovely dish together!

How to Make Cabbage Soup

Ingredients

Ingredient	Amount
Cabbage	1 small head, chopped
Carrots	2, diced
Onion	1, chopped
Garlic	2 cloves, minced
Vegetable broth	4 cups
Diced tomatoes	1 cup (canned or fresh)
Potatoes	2, diced
Dried thyme	1 teaspoon
Salt and pepper	to taste
Olive oil	2 tablespoons
Fresh parsley	optional, for garnish

Personal Note: I love adding fresh herbs like rosemary—it makes the soup smell and taste amazing!

Cooking Steps

1. Gather Your Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients on the counter. This makes the cooking process smoother and a lot more enjoyable.

2. Prepare the Vegetables

Wash and chop your vegetables. I find that chatting with a friend or a loved one while preparing vegetables can make this part so much more fun! You can also listen to some music that you love.

3. Heat the Olive Oil

In a large pot, heat your olive oil over medium heat. This will give your vegetables a lovely flavor as they cook.

4. Sauté the Onions and Garlic

Once the oil is heated, add the chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté them until the onions become translucent. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen at this point—so inviting!

5. Add Carrots and Potatoes

Next, toss in the diced carrots and potatoes. Stir well to combine everything. Let the veggies cook for about 5 minutes. This will help deepen their flavors.

6. Add Chopped Cabbage

Now, you can add the chopped cabbage to the pot. It will look like a mountain of greens, but don’t worry; it wilts down beautifully as it cooks!

7. Stir in the Broth

Pour in the vegetable broth and give everything a good stir. The broth is what makes this soup so rich and flavorful.

8. Add the Diced Tomatoes

Next, add in the diced tomatoes along with their juices. This brings a beautiful color and extra depth to your soup.

9. Season with Thyme, Salt, and Pepper

Sprinkle in the dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Seasoning is really important here—adjust it according to your taste as the soup simmers.

10. Bring to a Boil

Turn up the heat and bring your soup to a boil. Then, reduce the heat and let it simmer. You want all those lovely flavors to meld together—trust me, it’s worth the wait!

11. Simmer Until Tender

Let the soup simmer for about 30 minutes or until everything is nice and tender. You’ll notice that the color becomes richer and the aroma fills your home—how lovely!

12. Serve Hot

Taste the soup and adjust any seasonings if necessary. When you’re happy with the flavor, serve it hot! Garnish with fresh parsley if you desire, and enjoy!

Why I Love Making This Dish

I adore making this Cabbage Soup not only for its delicious taste but for the memories it brings back. It’s incredible how food can transport you back in time. Each bite reminds me of my mother’s hugs, my family’s laughter, and the warmth of our home. Cooking this dish feels like I’m passing down a tradition, one that I hope my kids will replicate with their families one day.

What You’ll Need

Before you start, here’s a quick rundown of the tools you’ll need:

• A large pot or Dutch oven: This will be your trusty companion for simmering the soup.
• A sharp knife and cutting board: For chopping your veggies with ease.
• A wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and combining flavors.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. First, gather everything you need. No one wants to be running around looking for something while cooking!
2. Preheat the pot and sauté your onions. Trust me, this is key for a rich base flavor!
3. Be sure to season well! Taste as you go—it’s one of the joys of cooking.

Tips for Perfect Results

• If you want an even deeper flavor, try using homemade broth instead of store-bought.
• Don’t be shy about adding in other vegetables or beans that you may have on hand; this is your soup!
• For a little kick, you could toss in some red pepper flakes. Spice it up to your taste!

Serving Suggestions and Sides

This Cabbage Soup pairs beautifully with a cozy slice of crusty bread or even grilled cheese sandwiches. You could also enjoy a crisp salad on the side. Perhaps a light vinaigrette would complement both the soup and the salad beautifully!

Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (which rarely happens in my house), don’t fret! Simply store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge. It makes for a hearty lunch the next day. Just reheat it gently on the stove, and it’ll be as delicious as the first time!

FAQ Section

Can I use different vegetables? Absolutely! If you have other vegetables that are past their prime, toss them in! Peppers, zucchini, or even green beans would work nicely.

Is this soup good for freezing? Yes! Just make sure it cools completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.

What if I don’t like cabbage? You can substitute kale or spinach for a different flavor and texture. They’ll give you a lovely green color and are packed with nutrients.

Conclusion

This Cabbage Soup has become a staple in my kitchen, and I’m so excited for you to try it. The flavors meld together beautifully, and it’s so easy to make. I just know your family will love it as much as mine do! So, gather your ingredients, embrace the warmth of your kitchen, and create some beautiful memories. I can’t wait to hear how it turns out for you! Remember, if your family asks for seconds, just like mine does every time, you’re doing it right!