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Best Cabbage Soup to Warm Your Soul

As the golden leaves start to fall and the crisp air creeps in, my thoughts naturally turn to warm and comforting meals that embrace the cozy spirit of the season. One dish that invariably brings me back to my childhood is a steaming bowl of cabbage soup. Its inviting aroma filled our kitchen during chilly evenings, making it a cherished recipe in our family. This Best Cabbage Soup is not only filled with tender vegetables and hearty lentils, but it also has a delightful array of spices that dance gently on your palate. Imagine cozying up with a bowl of this creamy, earthy goodness after a long day; it’s the kind of warm hug you’ll crave. Trust me, this is an easy weeknight dinner you’ll want to keep on hand. This is one you’ll definitely want to pin for later!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: In just about 40 minutes, you can whip up a pot of delicious soup that the whole family will love.
Nutritious: Packed with vegetables and lentils, this soup is a wholesome choice for a healthy meal.
Budget-Friendly: Using simple, affordable ingredients makes this a perfect option for those on a budget.
Customizable: Feel free to swap in your favorite veggies or spices for a unique twist!
Meal Prep Friendly: This Best Cabbage Soup keeps well, making it perfect for make-ahead lunches and dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need for 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)
1/2 lemon zest and juice (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

Make the mirepoix: 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.
Cook aromatics: Stir in the minced garlic along with the oregano, cumin, paprika, and cayenne. Cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
Add liquid and lentils: Mix in the tomato paste and stir constantly for another minute. Then, pour in the vegetable broth, add the diced tomatoes, and stir in the red lentils.
Add cabbage: Gradually mix in the shredded cabbage, pressing each batch down to submerge it in the liquid.
Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover. Let it simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally for even cooking.
Season and garnish: Add the lemon zest and juice, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Delicious Variations to Try

Spicy Twist: Add a bit more cayenne or a dash of hot sauce for a zesty kick that warms you inside and out.
Creamy Delight: Stir in a splash of coconut milk at the end for a rich, creamy texture that enhances the soup’s flavor.
Herb Infusion: Toss in some fresh thyme or rosemary to layer in a herby complexity that will invigorate your senses.
Rainbow Veggies: Substitute or mix in other colorful vegetables like bell peppers, green beans, or zucchini for a vibrant twist.

Chef Emma’s Helpful Tips

Make Ahead: This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 5 days. Consider making a big batch for easy weeknight lunches!
Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge or freeze portions for up to 3 months. Just reheat on the stove or microwave when you’re ready.
Ingredient Swaps: Not a fan of cabbage? You can replace it with kale, spinach, or other leafy greens that cook down nicely.
Slicing Trick: When shredding cabbage, a sharp knife or mandoline will make the task quicker and easier!

What’s Inside – Nutrition Breakdown

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: Approximately 190
Carbohydrates: 35g
Sugar: 5g
Fat: 3g
Protein: 9g
Sodium: 400mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this ahead?
Absolutely! It’s perfect for meal prep and stores well.
Can I use different ingredients?
Of course! Swap in your favorite veggies or lentils as desired.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge or freeze for future meals.
How long does it last?
It will stay fresh in the fridge for about 5 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months.

A Cozy Closing Note

As the days grow shorter and the temperature plummets, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Best Cabbage Soup to bring comfort and joy. Filled with nutritious vegetables and the vibrant flavors of herbs and spices, it’s a simple yet fulfilling dish that is sure to become a family favorite. Don’t forget to save this Best Cabbage Soup to your cozy meals board so it’s ready when you need a delicious and heartwarming treat!