This Hearty Cabbage Soup is the perfect comfort dish for chilly days. Packed with vegetables and flavor, it's a nourishing meal that warms you from the inside out.
Cabbage: Adds bulk and subtle sweetness to the soup. It's low in calories and high in vitamins. Olive oil: Used to sauté the veggies, giving a rich base flavor. Onion: Provides a savory depth and aromatic foundation for the soup. Carrots: Add a touch of natural sweetness and color. Garlic: Infuses the soup with a warm, comforting aroma. Vegetable broth: Forms the main liquid base, carrying the flavors of all the ingredients. Potatoes: Make the soup hearty and filling, with a comforting texture. Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing overall taste. Dried thyme: Adds a subtle earthiness and complexity. Bay leaf: Infuses the soup with a robust, aromatic flavor. Fresh parsley: Brightens the dish with a pop of color and fresh flavor at the end.
This Hearty Cabbage Soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread or a homemade roll. For a complete meal, serve it alongside a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette.
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté these until they're translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. You'll know they're ready when your kitchen starts smelling amazing.
Next, stir in the carrots and potatoes. Let them cook for about 5 minutes to start softening. The idea is to give them a head start, so they become tender by the end.
Now, add the chopped cabbage to the pot. Continue to sauté everything for another 5 minutes. The cabbage will start to wilt and meld with the other vegetables.
Pour in the vegetable broth and crank up the heat to bring everything to a boil. This is where the magic happens as the flavors begin to come together.
Once boiling, add the salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaf. Stir to combine, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it simmer away for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom.
Finally, remove the bay leaf and stir in the fresh parsley just before serving. This adds a fresh, herby finish to your soup.