Ingredients (Serves 6)
For the soup:
- 1 large green cabbage, finely chopped
- 2 large onions, thinly sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 medium potatoes, diced (optional for a heartier soup)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon turmeric powder
- 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt to taste
- 1.5–2 liters vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 bay leaf
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Optional additions:
- Shredded chicken for extra protein
- White beans or lentils for a filling vegetarian version
- A squeeze of lemon juice before serving for freshness
Preparation Method
1. Prepare the flavor base
Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook slowly for 8–10 minutes until they become soft and lightly golden. This step creates a rich, sweet flavor that gives the soup its comforting taste.
Add the minced garlic and stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Build the soup flavor
Add tomato paste, turmeric, paprika, cumin, black pepper, thyme, and salt. Stir everything together for 1 minute to release the spices’ aromas.
Add the carrots and potatoes, mixing them with the seasoned onion base.
3. Add the cabbage
Place the chopped cabbage into the pot. It may look like a lot at first, but cabbage reduces as it cooks.
Stir gently until the cabbage starts to soften.
4. Simmer slowly
Pour in the broth until all vegetables are covered. Add the bay leaf.
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 35–45 minutes until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well combined.
5. Final touches
Taste and adjust seasoning. Remove the bay leaf.
Add fresh parsley or cilantro on top and finish with a small drizzle of olive oil or a squeeze of lemon juice.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this soup hot with:
- Fresh crusty bread
- Toasted garlic bread
- A side salad
- Grilled chicken or boiled eggs for a complete meal
Why You’ll Love This Soup
This cabbage soup is:
- Naturally low in calories but very satisfying
- Rich in fiber and vitamins
- Perfect for cold days
- Easy to prepare with affordable ingredients
- Great for meal preparation because the flavor improves the next day
A simple bowl of cabbage, onions, and spices transforms into a deeply comforting homemade soup full of warmth and flavor.