Cabbage Burning Soup Recipe
Looking for a healthy, flavorful meal that’s both low in calories and high in nutrients? This cabbage-burning soup is a fantastic choice! Packed with vibrant vegetables, lightly seasoned with smoky paprika, and simmered to perfection, this soup is versatile enough for detox-friendly dinners, meal prep, or a simple light lunch. Follow this easy recipe to whip up a bowl of goodness that’s satisfying, nutritious, and incredibly easy to prepare.
Ingredients for Cabbage Burning Soup
This simple soup relies on wholesome ingredients to deliver great flavor and nutrition. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Cabbage: The star of the dish, providing fiber and aiding in detoxification.
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups chopped tomatoes (with their liquid)
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth for a non-vegetarian version)
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Adds a smoky depth to the soup.
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Optional garnish: Fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice.
Cooking Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating a drizzle of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the chopped onion, sliced carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté the vegetables for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and fragrant. This step builds the foundation of flavor for the soup.
Build the Soup Base
Add the sliced cabbage to the pot, stirring to combine with the sautéed vegetables. The cabbage will cook down significantly, so don’t worry if it looks like a lot at first.
Next, pour in the chopped tomatoes, including their liquid, and the vegetable broth. Sprinkle in the paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed.
Simmer to Perfection
Raise the heat to bring the soup to a boil, then reduce it to low. Let the soup simmer uncovered for 20–25 minutes. During this time, the cabbage will tenderize, and the flavors will meld beautifully, resulting in a comforting and savory soup. Stir occasionally to prevent the vegetables from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
Final Touches and Serve
Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed. Ladle the hot soup into bowls, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a splash of lemon juice for brightness, and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Cabbage Burning Soup
-
Uniform Chopping
Cut the vegetables into even pieces to ensure they cook evenly and maintain a consistent texture throughout the soup. -
Boost the Flavor
For a spicy twist, add a dash of hot sauce, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or a chopped chili pepper. -
Experiment with Herbs
Fresh herbs like thyme, dill, or oregano can elevate the flavor of the soup, adding aromatic depth. -
Add Protein
To make the soup more filling, toss in cooked beans, lentils, or shredded chicken during the simmering stage. -
Batch Cooking
This soup freezes exceptionally well, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Make a large batch and store portions for easy, healthy meals later.
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
- Freezing: Divide the soup into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator.
- Reheating: Warm the soup gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. If it thickens during storage, simply add a splash of broth to loosen it up.
FAQs
Can I use other vegetables in this soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add zucchini, green beans, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrients.
Is this soup suitable for a keto diet?
While cabbage is keto-friendly, the carrots and tomatoes may increase the carb count. You can reduce the amount of carrots or skip them altogether for a lower-carb version.
What’s the best way to make this soup more filling?
Adding protein like beans, lentils, or shredded chicken will make the soup more satisfying without compromising its healthy profile.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Combine all the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours. Stir occasionally and adjust seasonings before serving.
How do I keep the cabbage from getting too mushy?
Avoid overcooking the soup. Keep an eye on it during the simmering stage, and remove it from heat once the cabbage reaches your desired tenderness.
This cabbage-burning soup is a simple yet flavorful recipe that’s perfect for anyone seeking a healthy, delicious meal. With minimal prep and tons of versatility, it’s sure to become a staple in your recipe collection!