Cabbage and Onion Soup

This Cabbage and Onion Soup is a comforting, budget-friendly dish made with tender cabbage, sweet onions, carrots, and a flavorful broth. It’s light yet satisfying and perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 large onions, thinly sliced
• 4 cups green cabbage, chopped
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups (1.4 L) vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 (14.5 oz/410 g) can diced tomatoes, undrained (optional)
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp salt (or to taste)
• ½ tsp black pepper

Optional Garnishes

• Chopped fresh parsley
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Cracked black pepper
• Lemon wedges

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the onions and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring often, until soft and lightly caramelized.
3. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
4. Add the carrots and celery and cook for 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the chopped cabbage and cook for 3–4 minutes, until it begins to soften.
6. Pour in the broth and add the diced tomatoes (if using), thyme, paprika, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper.
7. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
8. Simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
9. Remove the bay leaf and adjust the seasoning to taste.
10. Serve hot, garnished with parsley, Parmesan, or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice if desired.

Tips

• Caramelizing the onions adds extra depth and sweetness.
• Add cooked shredded chicken, beans, or sausage for a heartier meal.
• For a thicker soup, blend 1–2 cups of the soup and stir it back into the pot.
• A splash of apple cider vinegar at the end brightens the flavor.

Serving Suggestions

• Crusty bread
• Grilled cheese sandwich
• Garlic toast
• Side salad
• Baked potato

Storage

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings: 6
Calories: Approximately 140 calories per serving