If you’re craving something that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, this Hearty Cabbage Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. Packed with wholesome vegetables and simmered to tender perfection, it delivers a comforting mix of flavors that soothes and satisfies. Whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a cozy lunch, this soup brings together simplicity and heartiness in one delightful dish.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A white pot is shown on a stove with a white marbled background. Inside the pot are chopped vegetables including light green cabbage pieces and small orange carrot cubes. In the first part, a light yellow broth is being poured into the pot from above with a woman's hand out of frame holding the container. In the second part, a clear bowl is tipping red diced tomatoes into the same pot over the vegetables and broth. The colors show the fresh mix of green, orange, yellow, and red ingredients inside the white pot. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients, each playing a key role in building layers of taste, texture, and vibrant color. These simple staples come together to create a nourishing harmony that’s both easy and rewarding to make.

2 tablespoons olive oil: Provides a smooth, rich base for sautéing the vegetables and adds depth to the soup’s flavor.
3 carrots chopped (325g): Offers sweetness and a lovely orange hue, balancing the soup’s savory elements.
2 celery stalks chopped (105g): Delivers a subtle earthiness and fresh crunch that enhances the soup’s texture.
1 onion chopped (260g): Creates a savory foundation with its natural sweetness when cooked down.
4 garlic cloves minced (19g): Adds a fragrant punch of warmth and complexity.
1 small head cabbage chopped (about 1.5 pounds/675g): The star of the dish, offering hearty bulk and a tender bite once cooked.
4 cups chicken broth (907g): Brings richness and carries all the flavor notes together beautifully.
1 (28-ounce/793g) can diced tomatoes: Introduces a bright acidity and rustic texture to the soup.
1½ teaspoons dried thyme: Infuses an aromatic, slightly minty undertone that complements the vegetables perfectly.
1 teaspoon salt: Enhances all the flavors for a well-rounded taste.
½ teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and depth to the broth.
Chopped fresh parsley for garnish: Brings a fresh, vibrant finish just before serving.

How to Make Hearty Cabbage Soup Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Toss in the chopped carrots, celery, onion, and minced garlic. Cook these together for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies soften and their aromas fill your kitchen. This step builds a flavorful base that the rest of the soup will lean on.

Step 2: Add the Cabbage and Broth

Next, throw in the chopped cabbage, chicken broth, and canned diced tomatoes. Sprinkle in the dried thyme, salt, and pepper to season the mix. Stir everything gently to combine. Bringing these ingredients together is where the heartiness really begins to develop.

Step 3: Simmer to Perfection

Bring the soup to a boil, then cover the pot and lower the heat to medium-low. Let it simmer for about 25 minutes until the cabbage becomes tender but still holds its shape nicely. This slow cooking lets flavors marry and deepens the comforting essence of the soup.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Before serving, sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley to add a burst of color and freshness. This final touch really brings your Hearty Cabbage Soup Recipe to life.

How to Serve Hearty Cabbage Soup Recipe

A bowl filled with vegetable soup showing different layers: chunks of orange carrots, white and light green cabbage pieces, red tomato bits, and green herbs floating on light brown broth. The bowl itself is light grey with speckled patterns. In the background, a large blue pot with soup inside is partly shown, with a woman's hand using a wooden spoon stirring the soup. On the right side, there is a glass filled with a light yellow drink. Everything is placed on a white marbled surface with a pink cloth underneath the bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of fresh parsley is classic, but you can also add a dollop of sour cream or a few crushed red pepper flakes if you like a bit of creaminess or heat. Crispy croutons or a grating of Parmesan cheese can add texture and extra flavor dimension.

Side Dishes

This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a warm baguette to soak up every last drop. A simple green salad or roasted root vegetables make for complementary sides that keep the meal light yet satisfying.

Creative Ways to Present

For a charming touch, serve the soup in mini bread bowls or rustic ceramic mugs. Garnish with fresh herbs and a swirl of olive oil for a restaurant-style presentation that’s sure to impress family and friends.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This Hearty Cabbage Soup Recipe keeps incredibly well in the refrigerator for up to one week. Store your leftovers in airtight containers to preserve freshness and flavor.

Freezing

If you want to make a big batch to enjoy later, this soup freezes wonderfully for up to six months. Just cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers or bags, making sure to leave some room for expansion.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if the soup thickens too much during storage to bring it back to the perfect consistency.

FAQs

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth to keep all the rich flavor without any meat.

What can I add to make the soup more filling?

To add extra protein and heartiness, try stirring in cooked beans, lentils, or shredded chicken toward the end of cooking.

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?

Yes, use about 3 to 4 cups of fresh, diced ripe tomatoes. You might want to cook them a bit longer to achieve the same depth of flavor.

Is it okay if the cabbage overcooks?

While slightly overcooked cabbage will be softer and less crisp, it still tastes great and helps thicken the soup. Just keep an eye during simmering for your preferred texture.

How can I make this soup spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper when you add the broth and seasonings to give the soup a nice kick.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly comforting and satisfying about this Hearty Cabbage Soup Recipe that makes you want to come back for more. It’s easy to prepare, full of vibrant flavors, and perfect for chilly days or whenever you crave a dish that feels like home. Give it a try and enjoy a bowl full of warmth and deliciousness.

Hearty Cabbage Soup Recipe