As winter nights settle in, a warm and comforting bowl of soup is just what we need to cozy up with. And what better ingredient to base our soups on than the humble cabbage? With its versatility and abundance of nutrients, it’s no wonder that cabbage has become a staple in many cuisines around the world.
From classic combinations like beef and potato, to bold and spicy flavors inspired by international cuisines, we’ve gathered 20 hearty cabbage soup recipes to keep you warm and satisfied all winter long. Whether you’re a fan of creamy textures or savory broths, there’s something on this list for everyone. So grab a spoon and let’s dive in!
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Classic Cabbage and Beef Soup
Warm up with this hearty and comforting soup that combines tender beef, crunchy cabbage, and rich flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups beef broth
– 2 cups water
– 1 head of cabbage, shredded
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Pour in the broth and water, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 1 hour.
6. Add the cabbage and caraway seeds, and continue to simmer for an additional 30 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Creamy Cabbage and Potato Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of tender cabbage, flavorful potatoes, and creamy goodness. A delicious and nutritious meal for any occasion!
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cups shredded cabbage
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion in butter until softened.
2. Add the shredded cabbage and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until potatoes are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender) to puree the mixture until smooth.
5. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. Heat gently until warmed through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Kimchi Cabbage Soup
A spicy and savory Korean-inspired soup that combines the crunch of cabbage with the bold flavors of kimchi.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 cups of kimchi, chopped
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1/2 cup of soy sauce
– 1/4 cup of rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons of Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 teaspoon of ground ginger
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the chopped cabbage and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
2. Add the kimchi, soy sauce, rice vinegar, Gochujang, and ground ginger to the pot. Stir well to combine.
3. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Simmer the soup for an additional 5-7 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetarian Cabbage and Lentil Soup
This comforting soup is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, packed with nutritious cabbage, lentils, and aromatic spices. It’s an excellent option for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cabbage, chopped
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add cabbage, lentils, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tangy Tomato Cabbage Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of tangy and savory flavors, with the added benefit of being packed with vitamins and antioxidants from the cabbage. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups mixed greens cabbage (cabbage and kale)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add cabbage; cook until slightly wilted.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Hearty Cabbage and Sausage Soup
A comforting and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of cabbage with the savory taste of sausage, making it a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 smoked sausages (such as kielbasa or bratwurst), sliced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 4 cups of chicken broth
– 1 can of diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon of caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the sliced sausage and chopped onion over medium heat until browned.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the chopped cabbage, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and caraway seeds. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Cabbage Soup
This hearty and aromatic soup is a perfect blend of spices and flavors that will warm your belly and soul. With the comforting warmth of cabbage, the slight sweetness of carrots, and the boldness of Moroccan spices, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cayenne pepper
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 6 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, carrots, and garlic; cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the cumin, smoked paprika, cinnamon, and cayenne pepper; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Simple Garlic and Ginger Cabbage Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect comfort food for chilly days, made with just a few simple ingredients. The combination of sautéed garlic and ginger adds depth and warmth to the dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium cabbage, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger; sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
3. Add the chopped cabbage and cook until it starts to soften, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes; bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Smoky Bacon and Cabbage Soup
This hearty soup combines the smokiness of bacon with the sweetness of cabbage, making it a perfect comfort food for a chilly day. With just a few ingredients, you can create a rich and satisfying meal that’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound smoked bacon, diced
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups cabbage, chopped (about 1 head)
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the cooked bacon from the pot with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the chopped cabbage to the pot and stir to combine. Cook for 5 minutes, or until the cabbage starts to soften.
5. Add the cooked bacon back into the pot along with the chicken broth and water. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Eastern European Cabbage Borscht
This classic Eastern European soup recipe is a staple of Ukrainian and Polish cuisine. With its rich flavors, vibrant color, and comforting warmth, it’s no wonder borscht has become a beloved dish throughout the region.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium cabbage, shredded
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sour cream or yogurt for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cabbage, and caraway seeds. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender, about 10-12 minutes.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes and beef broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with sour cream or yogurt if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Cabbage and Chicken Noodle Soup
A hearty and comforting soup perfect for a chilly evening, this Cabbage and Chicken Noodle Soup combines tender chicken, crunchy cabbage, and soft noodles in a savory broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups chopped cabbage (green or red)
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 8 ounces egg noodles
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 teaspoon paprika for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until softened.
2. Add the chopped cabbage and cook until slightly tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chicken, chicken broth, and paprika (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
4. Cook the egg noodles according to package instructions. Drain and add to the pot.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Turmeric and Coconut Cabbage Soup
Warm up with this comforting and nutritious soup that combines the flavors of turmeric, coconut, and cabbage. This recipe is perfect for a cozy night in or as a healthy addition to your meal prep routine.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) of coconut milk
– 1 tsp ground turmeric
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onions and garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the chopped cabbage and cook until it starts to wilt, about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in the coconut milk, turmeric, and vegetable broth. Stir well.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Savory Cabbage and Mushroom Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of earthy mushrooms and sweet cabbage, simmered to perfection in a rich chicken broth. Serve with crusty bread for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 8 minutes.
3. Add cabbage, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until cabbage is tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Korean Dumpling and Cabbage Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Korean-style dumpling and cabbage soup, packed with tender beef, springy dumplings, and crunchy vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef bones (or substitute with pork or chicken bones)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups kimchi, chopped (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 head of cabbage, chopped
– 1 cup dumpling wrappers (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Salt, to taste
– 4 cups beef broth
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
2. Add the beef bones, kimchi, cabbage, dumpling wrappers, black pepper, and salt. Pour in the beef broth.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds (optional).
Cooking Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
White Bean and Cabbage Stew
This comforting stew is a perfect blend of creamy white beans and tender cabbage, simmered to perfection in a flavorful broth. Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 cups chopped fresh cabbage
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the vegetable broth, water, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
6. Stir in the cannellini beans and continue to simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Rustic Cabbage and Barley Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect representation of comfort food at its finest. The sweetness of the cabbage pairs perfectly with the earthy flavor of the barley, making it a delightful and satisfying meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 cups of pearl barley
– 4 cups of vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 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 translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped cabbage and cook until wilted, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Add the pearl barley and vegetable broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until the barley is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Caramelized Onion and Cabbage Soup
Savor the rich flavors of this comforting soup, perfectly balanced by the sweetness of caramelized onions and the crunch of fresh cabbage.
Ingredients:
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and cook, stirring occasionally, for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized and golden brown.
3. Add the chopped cabbage to the pot and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup cook for 15-20 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
6. Season with caraway seeds, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Five-Spice Cabbage and Tofu Soup
This hearty and aromatic soup combines the crunch of cabbage with the savory flavor of tofu, all tied together by the warmth of five-spice powder. Perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 1 block of firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon of five-spice powder
– 4 cups of vegetable broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and ginger; cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the tofu and cook for 2-3 minutes, until lightly browned.
4. Add the cabbage, five-spice powder, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Lemony Cabbage and Rice Soup
This refreshing soup is perfect for a light and satisfying meal on a warm day. The combination of tender cabbage, fluffy rice, and a squeeze of lemon juice creates a delightful harmony of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the shredded cabbage to the pot and cook until tender, about 5-6 minutes.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, chicken broth, and lemon juice. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and let soup simmer for 10-12 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Cabbage and Shrimp Miso Soup
A hearty and savory soup that combines the crunch of cabbage with the sweetness of shrimp, all tied together with a rich miso broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped cabbage and cook until slightly caramelized, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
5. Stir in the miso paste and soy sauce until dissolved.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to cozy up with these delicious and hearty cabbage soup recipes perfect for winter nights. From classic combinations like beef and potato to international twists like Korean dumplings and Moroccan spices, there’s something for everyone. Try creamy and comforting options like cabbage and sausage or smoky bacon, or opt for a lighter vegetarian choice like lentil and cabbage. With 20 unique recipes to choose from, you’re sure to find your new favorite way to warm up on a chilly evening.
