Are you looking for a healthy, hearty, and incredibly delicious soup that's also surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This cabbage soup recipe takes inspiration from Jamie Oliver's philosophy of fresh, flavorful ingredients and simple cooking techniques. It's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, a cozy weekend lunch, or even meal prepping for the week ahead. This recipe is packed with vegetables, making it a fantastic addition to your healthy meal plan. Get ready to enjoy a bowl of goodness!
Ingredients:
This recipe serves 4-6 people and easily scales up or down.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 cup cooked lentils or beans for added protein
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. This step builds a delicious base for your soup.
Step 2: Add the Cabbage and Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and sliced cabbage. Cook for another 5 minutes, or until the cabbage begins to wilt slightly. Don't be afraid to pack the cabbage in; it will reduce in volume as it cooks.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes (undrained). Add the thyme and oregano, season with salt and pepper, and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 20 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it becomes!
Step 4: Enhance the Flavor (Optional)
If using lentils or beans, add them during the last 10 minutes of simmering. This allows them to heat through without becoming mushy.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. A dollop of plain yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a lovely finishing touch.
Cooking Tips for the Best Cabbage Soup
- Don't overcook the cabbage: Overcooked cabbage can become mushy. Aim for tender-crisp.
- Adjust the seasonings: Taste the soup as you go and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
- Make it your own: Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers. A splash of lemon juice at the end brightens the flavor.
- Leftovers are great: This soup tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Variations:
- Spicy Cabbage Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Sausage Cabbage Soup: Brown some Italian sausage before adding the vegetables for a heartier soup.
- Creamy Cabbage Soup: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for a richer, creamier texture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Protein: 5-7 grams
- Fiber: 5-7 grams
This easy cabbage soup recipe is a perfect example of delicious and healthy homemade cooking. It's a quick dinner idea that's packed with flavor and nutrients. Enjoy this satisfying and wholesome dish!