Cozy up to a warm, comforting bowl of cabbage soup this winter. The humble vegetable may not get as much attention as some of its more popular cousins, but it’s definitely earned its place in the culinary hall of fame. With its versatility and nutritional benefits, cabbage is the perfect ingredient for soups that are both delicious and nutritious.
From classic combinations to international twists, we’ve gathered 20 hearty cabbage soup recipes that will keep you warm and satisfied all season long. Whether you’re looking for a comforting, creamy soup or something a little spicier, there’s something on this list for everyone. So go ahead, grab a spoon, and dive into the world of cabbage soups.
Creamy Cabbage and Potato Soup
Warm up with this comforting and creamy soup that combines the sweetness of cabbage and potatoes with a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped cabbage to the pot and cook until it starts to wilt, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the diced potatoes, salt, and pepper to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
5. Use an immersion blender or transfer the soup to a blender and puree until smooth.
6. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half and adjust seasoning as needed.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Kimchi Cabbage Soup
This hearty soup combines the spicy kick of kimchi with the comforting warmth of cabbage, perfect for a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup kimchi, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: Noodles or rice for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add cabbage and kimchi; cook until cabbage is slightly tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in chicken broth and ginger; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until cabbage is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot with noodles or rice, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Classic Beef and Cabbage Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines the tender flavors of beef, cabbage, and vegetables in a rich broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (chuck or round)
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups shredded cabbage
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 large celery stalk, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as needed.
2. Add the onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and cabbage. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1-2 hours or until the beef is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 1-2 hours
Vegetarian Cabbage Detox Soup
This hearty soup is packed with nutrients and fiber, making it an excellent choice for a detoxifying meal. The combination of sautéed cabbage, carrots, and green beans creates a delicious and healthy broth that’s perfect for any time of the year.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 cup of green beans, trimmed
– 4 cups of vegetable broth
– 1/2 teaspoon of ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the cabbage, carrots, and green beans in a little bit of oil until tender.
2. Add the vegetable broth, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are very tender.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
German-Style Cabbage and Sausage Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that combines the flavors of Germany’s traditional sausages with the sweetness of caramelized cabbage. This recipe makes a perfect meal for a chilly evening.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound German sausage (such as Bratwurst or Knockwurst), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 head of cabbage, shredded
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, cooking until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the shredded cabbage to the pot, stirring to combine with the onion mixture. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and milk, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Return the sausage to the pot and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Reduce heat to low and let the soup simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Asian-Inspired Cabbage Noodle Soup
Warm up with this comforting and flavorful soup that combines the freshness of cabbage, the savory taste of noodles, and the spices of Asia.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium cabbage, thinly sliced
– 8 oz. soba noodles
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook soba noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic, ginger, and cabbage. Cook until cabbage is slightly tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in broth, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until cabbage is tender.
5. Stir in cooked noodles and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with scallions (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rustic Cabbage and Tomato Soup
Rustic Cabbage and Tomato Soup Recipe
Warm up with this hearty and comforting soup that combines the simplicity of cabbage and tomatoes with a hint of rustic charm. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or a quick lunch, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, caraway seeds, and chopped cabbage. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
6. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup, or allow it to cool and blend it in a blender.
7. Serve hot, topped with a dollop of heavy cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Slow Cooker Cabbage Soup with Bacon
This hearty soup combines the natural sweetness of cabbage with the smoky flavor of bacon, all in a comforting slow cooker meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into pieces
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon in a skillet over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook until softened. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the cooked onion mixture, cabbage, carrots, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and caraway seeds (if using) to a 6-quart slow cooker.
4. Cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
5. Stir in the crispy bacon just before serving.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 4-8 hours
Lemony Cabbage and Lentil Soup
Brighten up a chilly day with this vibrant and flavorful soup, bursting with the freshness of lemon and the comforting warmth of lentils.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium cabbage, chopped
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the chopped cabbage and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Hungarian Cabbage Soup with Paprika
This hearty and flavorful soup is a staple of Hungarian cuisine, made with tender cabbage, aromatic paprika, and savory beef. Serve it with crusty bread for a comforting and filling meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add ground beef; cook until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
3. Add cabbage, caraway seeds, paprika, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until cabbage is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Moroccan-Spiced Cabbage and Chickpea Soup
Discover the vibrant flavors of Morocco in this hearty, comforting soup that combines tender cabbage with creamy chickpeas and a blend of aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, chopped
– 1 can chickpeas (14.5 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add the cabbage and chickpeas. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, until the cabbage is tender, about 20-25 minutes.
5. Stir in chopped parsley before serving.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Russian Shchi (Sauerkraut Soup)
A hearty and comforting soup that showcases the flavors of Eastern Europe, Russian Shchi is a staple dish made with sauerkraut, vegetables, and a rich broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 carrots, peeled and grated
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add sauerkraut, broth, and caraway seeds; bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai Coconut Cabbage Soup
This creamy and comforting soup combines the sweetness of coconut milk with the crunch of cabbage and the bold flavors of Thai spices, making it a perfect dish for any occasion. With just 20 minutes of cooking time, this recipe is quick, easy, and delicious!
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) of coconut milk
– 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon of Thai red curry paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the cabbage and cook until slightly softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in the coconut milk, broth, and curry paste. Bring to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Mediterranean Cabbage and White Bean Soup
Mediterranean Cabbage and White Bean Soup Recipe
This hearty soup is a flavorful blend of sautéed cabbage, aromatic spices, and creamy cannellini beans, perfect for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cabbage, beans, broth, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Polish Kapusniak (Cabbage and Mushroom Soup)
This hearty soup is a staple of Polish cuisine, made with tender cabbage, earthy mushrooms, and aromatic spices. Serve it as a comforting meal or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as button, cremini, and shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add chopped cabbage and cook until it starts to soften, about 5 minutes.
5. Pour in broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until cabbage is tender.
6. Stir in sour cream and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Curried Cabbage and Carrot Soup
This vibrant soup is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, with the warmth of curry powder complementing the sweetness of cabbage and carrots.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized cabbage, chopped
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the grated carrots and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the chopped cabbage, curry powder, and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
French Cabbage and Leek Soup
French Cabbage and Leek Soup Recipe
This classic French soup is a delicious and comforting blend of sautéed cabbage, leeks, and potatoes in a flavorful chicken broth.
- 1 large head of cabbage, shredded
- 2 medium leeks, white and light green parts only, sliced
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 large potato, peeled and diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add shredded cabbage, sliced leeks, and diced potato. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 10-12 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
- Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until potatoes are cooked through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time:
40-45 minutes
Mexican Cabbage Soup with Lime and Cilantro
This vibrant soup combines the crunch of cabbage with the brightness of lime and cilantro, making it a perfect representation of Mexican flavors. With its simple preparation and bold taste, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Juice of 1 lime (about 2 tablespoons)
– Chopped cilantro (for garnish)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic, cumin, and smoked paprika (if using). Cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the chopped cabbage, broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
4. Stir in lime juice and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Simple Garlicky Cabbage Soup
A comforting and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly day, this garlicky cabbage soup is a delicious way to warm up. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal cooking time, you can have a satisfying meal on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped cabbage and cook until it starts to soften, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and water, and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sweet and Sour Cabbage Soup with Apples
This hearty soup combines the natural sweetness of apples with the tanginess of sour cabbage, creating a unique and delicious flavor profile. Perfect for a cozy night in or as a comforting meal on-the-go.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, chopped
– 2-3 apples, peeled and diced (Granny Smith work well)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup sour cream for serving
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add chopped cabbage and cook until wilted (about 5 minutes).
3. Add diced apples, chicken broth, water, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until apples are tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Summary
Get cozy this winter with these 20 deliciously comforting cabbage soup recipes! From creamy and potato-rich to spicy and kimchi-inspired, there’s something for everyone. Classics like beef and cabbage soup and German-style sausage soup are joined by international twists like Thai coconut and Moroccan-spiced soups. Even vegetarian options abound, such as lentil and vegetable-based soups. Whether you’re looking for a hearty comfort food or a nutritious detox meal, these recipes will warm your belly and your heart.
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