Cabbage Soup Recipe - Healthy & Delicious

Cabbage soup isn't just a classic comfort food; it's a nutritional powerhouse. Loaded with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, this humble dish can aid in weight loss and contribute to overall well-being. Whether you're looking to trim your waistline or add a healthy staple to your diet, cabbage soup is an excellent choice. Let's get started on making this delicious and healthy meal!

Ingredients

Basic Ingredients

• 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
• 2 large carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Additions

• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup green beans, chopped
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Chop the Cabbage:

• Cut the cabbage into quarters, remove the core, and chop it into bite-sized pieces.

2. Slice the Carrots and Celery:

• Peel and slice the carrots into thin rounds.
• Chop the celery into small pieces.

3. Dice the Onion and Mince the Garlic:

• Dice the onion finely.
• Mince the garlic cloves.

Step 2: Saute the Aromatics

1. Heat a Large Pot:

• Place a large pot over medium heat and add a small amount of olive oil.

2. Add the Onion and Garlic:

• Saute the diced onion and minced garlic until they become translucent, about 5 minutes.

Step 3: Cook the Vegetables

1. Add the Chopped Vegetables:

• Add the carrots, celery, bell pepper, and any optional vegetables to the pot.

2. Pour in Broth and Tomatoes:

• Add the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes (including the juice).

3. Season the Soup:

• Add salt, pepper, and any dried herbs (thyme, basil, oregano).

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

1. Bring to a Boil:

• Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a boil.

2. Reduce Heat and Simmer:

• Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
• Simmer for about 20-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.

Tips for Enhancing Flavor and Nutrition

• Add Protein:
• Consider adding cooked chicken breast, tofu, or beans to boost the protein content.
• Use Fresh Herbs:
• Garnish the soup with fresh parsley, cilantro, or dill for added freshness.
• Spice it Up:
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
• Use Low-Sodium Broth:
• Opt for low-sodium broth to control the salt content and make it heart-healthier.

Serving Suggestions and Storage Advice

Serving Ideas

• With Whole Grain Bread:
• Serve the soup with a slice of whole-grain bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
• As a Starter:
• Use cabbage soup as a starter for a multi-course meal.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerate:
• Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
• Freeze:
• For longer storage, freeze the soup in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months.

Nutritional Information

For those tracking their intake, here’s a rough nutritional breakdown per serving (1 cup):

• Calories: 50-70
• Protein: 2-4 grams
• Carbohydrates: 10-12 grams
• Fiber: 3-4 grams
• Fat: 0.5-1 gram

Conclusion

Cabbage soup is not only easy to make but also versatile and incredibly healthy. Whether you're trying to shed some pounds or simply want to enjoy a nutritious meal, this recipe is a fantastic option. Give it a try and don’t forget to share it with your friends and family!

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Happy Cooking! 🍲