Healthy Red Cabbage Soup Recipe

Red cabbage soup is a flavorful dish made with red cabbage, onions, carrots, garlic, and broth. The cabbage gives the soup a deep purple hue and adds a slight sweetness and tang when cooked. It’s often seasoned with herbs like thyme, bay leaves, and smoked paprika, making it a comforting and hearty meal. The addition of apple cider vinegar and a sweetener like honey or maple syrup balances the flavors perfectly.

Preparing red cabbage soup typically takes about 10 minutes of prep time, followed by 40-45 minutes of simmering on the stove. The simmering time allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a rich and flavorful broth. The total cooking time is about 55 minutes, making it a relatively quick and easy meal to prepare, especially for busy evenings.

This soup stands out because of its unique and vibrant color, which immediately draws the eye. The tangy sweetness from the apple cider vinegar and honey adds a surprising depth of flavor. The cabbage becomes tender and soft, absorbing all the savory broth, while the carrots add a subtle sweetness. With each spoonful, the combination of flavors feels both refreshing and nourishing.

Why You’ll Love It Red Cabbage Soup

• Healthy & Nutritious: Red cabbage soup is packed with vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants, offering a boost to your immune system. It’s an easy, tasty way to add healthy veggies to your diet, supporting overall wellness.
• Rich in Flavor: The balance of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors makes red cabbage soup unique. It’s a flavorful dish that combines the natural sweetness of cabbage with the zest of added spices, leaving your taste buds satisfied.
• Quick & Simple: This soup is easy to prepare, making it a great choice for busy days. With just a few ingredients, you can enjoy a homemade, comforting meal in no time, perfect for lunch or dinner.

Ingredient Notes for Red Cabbage Soup

• Red Cabbage: The star of this soup, red cabbage brings vibrant color and a slightly sweet, peppery flavor. It holds its texture well when cooked, adding a nice crunch to the soup.
• Onion: Adds depth and sweetness to the soup base. When sautéed, it helps create a savory foundation for the other flavors.
• Carrots: Sweet and earthy, carrots balance the acidity of the cabbage. Their natural sweetness enhances the overall flavor profile of the soup.
• Garlic: A must for a savory soup! Garlic provides a rich, aromatic flavor that complements the other vegetables.
• Vegetable Broth or Chicken Broth: The liquid base of your soup. Choose vegetable broth for a vegan version or chicken broth for a richer, more robust flavor.
• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the vegetables, olive oil brings healthy fats and a smooth texture to the soup.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: This adds a tangy zing, balancing the sweetness of the vegetables and helping to enhance the soup’s overall flavor.
• Dried Thyme: A classic herb for soups, thyme adds an earthy, slightly floral flavor. It pairs well with cabbage and carrots.
• Bay Leaf: A single bay leaf adds subtle depth and complexity to the soup. Remember to remove it before serving.
• Smoked Paprika: Smoked paprika gives the soup a warm, smoky flavor that enhances the richness of the broth and complements the cabbage.
• Salt and Pepper: Basic seasoning, but essential for bringing out the natural flavors in the soup. Adjust to taste.
• Honey or Maple Syrup: A touch of sweetness balances the acidity of the vinegar and the earthiness of the cabbage. Use sparingly to avoid overpowering the soup.
• Lemon Juice: A final squeeze of fresh lemon juice brightens the soup and adds a fresh, zesty note that contrasts with the deeper flavors.
• Fresh Parsley: For garnish, fresh parsley adds a burst of color and a fresh, herbaceous flavor that cuts through the richness of the soup.

Helpful Tips and Add Your Touch to Red Cabbage Soup

Red cabbage soup is a delicious and healthy dish, perfect for any season. When making it, ensure you use fresh, high-quality ingredients. The vibrant purple cabbage adds color and flavor. Don’t forget to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences. Experiment with spices like cumin or paprika for a unique twist.

Adding a splash of vinegar or lemon juice can balance the sweetness of the cabbage. For extra depth, consider incorporating smoked meats like ham or bacon. This enhances the soup’s savory profile and creates a richer flavor. You can also add a touch of honey for a sweet contrast.

To give your red cabbage soup more texture, try adding beans or potatoes. They absorb the broth’s flavor while making the dish more filling. If you’re vegetarian, opt for vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef stock. This keeps the soup light yet flavorful.

Red Cabbage Soup Variation

Red cabbage soup is incredibly versatile. You can try a few variations to change up the flavor or add more ingredients to suit your preferences:

• Add Meat: For a heartier version, try adding cooked sausage or shredded chicken.
• Spicy Kick: Add a dash of chili flakes or cayenne pepper for some heat.
• Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk at the end for a creamy soup.
• Additional Veggies: Include other vegetables like potatoes, parsnips, or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.

These variations allow you to tailor the soup to your tastes, making it a dish you can enjoy in many different ways.

How to Serve Red Cabbage Soup

Serving red cabbage soup is as easy as ladling it into bowls and enjoying it as is. However, there are some great ways to enhance the experience:

• With Crusty Bread: Serve your soup with a side of warm, crusty bread for dipping.
• Garnished with Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley, thyme, or dill can add a burst of flavor and color.
• Topped with Cheese: A sprinkle of grated cheese, such as Parmesan or cheddar, can make the soup even more delicious.

Red cabbage soup can also be served as a light starter or paired with a main course for a satisfying meal.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers or want to prepare the soup in advance, here are the best ways to store red cabbage soup:

• Refrigeration: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: Red cabbage soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

FAQs About Red Cabbage Soup

Is red cabbage soup good for weight loss?

Yes, red cabbage soup is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a filling yet light option for those looking to lose weight. Its high fiber content also helps with satiety, reducing overall calorie intake.

How do I make red cabbage soup?

To make red cabbage soup, you simply sauté onions, garlic, and other vegetables, then add chopped red cabbage, broth, and spices. Let it simmer until the cabbage is tender, and season to taste.

Can I freeze red cabbage soup?

Yes, you can freeze red cabbage soup. Store it in an airtight container for up to three months, and reheat when ready to serve.

Is red cabbage soup vegan?

Yes, red cabbage soup can easily be made vegan by using vegetable broth and avoiding animal-based ingredients like meat or dairy. It’s a versatile and plant-based dish suitable for various dietary preferences.

Healthy Red Cabbage Soup Recipe

Red cabbage soup is a flavorful dish made with red cabbage,onions, carrots, garlic, and broth. The cabbage gives the soup a deep purplehue and adds a slight sweetness and tang when cooked. It’s often seasoned withherbs like thyme, bay leaves, and smoked paprika, making it a comforting and heartymeal. The addition of apple cider vinegar and a sweetener like honey or maplesyrup balances the flavors perfectly.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Course: Soup

Cuisine: American

Calories: 150

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 small head of red cabbage about 5 cups shredded
• 1 large onion diced
• 2 medium carrots peeled and grated
• 2 cloves of garlic minced
• 4 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth for a non-vegan version
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar for tanginess
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika optional, for depth of flavor
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon honey or maple syrup optional, to balance the flavors
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice for freshness
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Equipment

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven
• Cutting Board and Knife
• Wooden Spoon
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Grater
• Ladle

Method

 

1. Prepare the base: Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 4-5 minutes until softened and translucent. Add the minced garlic and grated carrots, cooking for an additional 2 minutes.
2. Add the cabbage: Stir in the shredded red cabbage, and cook for about 5 minutes. You want the cabbage to begin to soften, releasing its beautiful color and flavor.
3. Pour in the broth: Add the vegetable (or chicken) broth to the pot, then add the apple cider vinegar, thyme, bay leaf, and smoked paprika. Bring everything to a simmer.
4. Let it cook: Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the cabbage becomes tender and the flavors meld together.
5. Final touches: Remove the bay leaf and stir in the honey (or maple syrup) to balance the acidity of the cabbage. Add salt, pepper, and lemon juice to taste. Let the soup rest for a few minutes before serving.
6. Serve and garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for an extra burst of color and flavor.

Notes

I cooked this Red Cabbage Soup last week and was amazed by how vibrant and full of flavor it turned out. The balance of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors makes it perfect for a healthy, satisfying meal. This dish is not only packed with vitamins and fiber but is also incredibly comforting.