In the realm of comforting and wholesome meals, few dishes can rival the simplicity and nourishment of a hearty cabbage soup. Whether you’re seeking a warming bowl on a chilly evening or a nutritious addition to your weekly meal plan, this cabbage soup recipe is sure to satisfy your cravings while providing a myriad of health benefits.
Ingredients
– 1 medium-sized green cabbage, shredded
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 8 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
1. Prepare the Vegetables: Start by chopping the vegetables – shred the cabbage, dice the carrots, chop the celery, and finely chop the onion and garlic.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the cleaved onion and garlic, sautéing until they become fragrant and clear.
3. Add Vegetables to the Pot: Add the shredded cabbage, diced carrots, and chopped celery to the pot. Mix well to join with the aromatics
4. Incorporate Tomatoes: Pour in the can of diced tomatoes, including the juice. Stir the mixture thoroughly.
5. Seasoning: Sprinkle the dried thyme and oregano over the vegetables. Drop in the bay leaf for an extra layer of flavor. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Pour in Vegetable Broth: Add the vegetable broth to the pot. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
7. Simmer to Perfection: Cover the pot and let the cabbage soup simmer until the vegetables are tender. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
8. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. The more extended the soup stews, the more extravagant the flavors become
9. Serve and Enjoy: Once the vegetables are tender, remove the bay leaf, and ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Health Benefits
1. Rich in Fiber:
Cabbage is a fiber powerhouse. Fiber is fundamental for stomach related wellbeing as it advances normal solid discharges, forestalls stoppage, and supports a sound stomach microbiome . A diet high in fiber has also been linked to a lower risk of developing various digestive issues, including colorectal cancer.
2. Abundant in Vitamins and Minerals:
Carrots and celery, key ingredients in this soup, bring a wealth of essential vitamins and minerals to the table. Carrots are a fantastic source of beta-carotene, a precursor to vitamin A, which is vital for maintaining healthy skin, vision, and a robust immune system. Celery adds vitamin K, potassium, and folate to the mix, supporting bone health, blood pressure regulation, and red blood cell formation.
3. Low in Calories, High in Nutrients:
Cabbage is a low-calorie vegetable that sneaks up all of a sudden. It provides a variety of micronutrients, including vitamin C, vitamin K, and folate. Vitamin C is known for its antioxidant properties, helping to combat oxidative stress and inflammation in the body.
4. Hydrating Broth Base:
The vegetable broth used in this soup not only adds depth of flavor but also contributes to overall hydration. Staying well-hydrated is crucial for various bodily functions, including temperature regulation, joint lubrication, and nutrient transportation.
5. Weight Management Support:
The high fiber content of cabbage, combined with the overall low-calorie nature of the soup, makes it an excellent choice for those looking to manage or lose weight. Fiber helps create a feeling of fullness, reducing the likelihood of overeating.
6. Heart Health:
The combination of vegetables and olive oil in this soup contributes to heart health. The olive oil provides healthy monounsaturated fats, which have been linked to lower levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) and a reduced risk of heart disease.
7. Immune Boosting:
The various vitamins and minerals present in the soup, including vitamin C from cabbage and antioxidants from tomatoes, contribute to a robust immune system. Regular consumption of nutrient-rich foods supports the body’s ability to fend off infections and illnesses.
8. Blood Sugar Regulation:
The high fiber content in cabbage can help regulate blood sugar levels. Fiber slows down the absorption of sugar, preventing rapid spikes and crashes in blood glucose levels.
Conclusion
This cabbage soup recipe is a celebration of simplicity and nourishment. Packed with wholesome ingredients, it’s not only a delightful dish for the taste buds but also a healthful addition to your culinary repertoire. So, the next time you’re yearning for a bowl of comfort, give this cabbage soup a try – your body and taste buds will thank you!
