Healthy Vegan Cabbage Soup Recipe

Vegan cabbage soup is a plant-based dish made from cabbage, carrots, onions, garlic, and a variety of herbs and spices. It’s a great option for those looking for a low-calorie, nutritious meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor. The soup is usually prepared with vegetable broth, making it suitable for vegans and vegetarians.

Preparing vegan cabbage soup usually takes around 10-15 minutes to prep, with an additional 25-30 minutes for cooking. The total time comes to about 40-45 minutes. It’s a quick and simple recipe that doesn’t take up much time, making it ideal for a busy weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week ahead.

This vegan cabbage soup has been a go-to for many looking for a healthy, comforting meal. The combination of cabbage, carrots, and herbs creates a naturally flavorful base, while the lemon juice at the end adds a fresh, tangy kick. It’s perfect for those new to cooking plant-based meals or anyone seeking something light yet satisfying. The addition of red pepper flakes adds just enough heat to keep the soup interesting.

Why You’ll Love It Vegan Cabbage Soup

• Healthy & Nutritious: Vegan cabbage soup is a great choice for those looking to eat clean. It’s full of vitamins and antioxidants from fresh vegetables. The cabbage provides fiber, supporting digestion and promoting overall health.
• Low in Calories: This soup is light and perfect for anyone looking to watch their calorie intake. It’s filling without being heavy, making it a great option for weight management or a low-calorie meal.
• Easy to Make: This vegan cabbage soup is simple to prepare, requiring only basic ingredients. It’s quick to cook, making it perfect for busy days when you want a nutritious, homemade meal.

Ingredient Notes for a Vegan Cabbage Soup

• Cabbage: A key ingredient, cabbage adds texture and mild flavor. It’s high in fiber, making it perfect for a hearty soup.
• Carrots: Carrots offer natural sweetness and vibrant color. They provide a boost of vitamins and minerals, enhancing the soup’s nutritional value.
• Onion: Onions form the base of the flavor profile. They add depth and aroma, while being a source of antioxidants.
• Garlic: Garlic gives the soup a punch of savory flavor. It’s also known for its health benefits, like boosting the immune system.
• Olive Oil: Olive oil is used to sauté the vegetables, helping to release their flavors. It adds healthy fats and is a staple in many plant-based dishes.
• Vegetable Broth: This adds a rich, savory foundation to the soup. It infuses the cabbage and other ingredients with a comforting taste while keeping it vegan.
• Tomatoes: Tomatoes contribute acidity and a touch of sweetness, balancing the earthy flavors of cabbage and carrots. They also provide vitamin C.
• Dried Thyme: Thyme has a subtle, earthy flavor that enhances the soup’s aroma. It pairs well with the cabbage, adding depth to the dish.
• Dried Oregano: Oregano adds a Mediterranean touch. It’s fragrant and slightly bitter, providing a balanced contrast to the soup’s sweeter elements.
• Bay Leaf: Bay leaves release a mild, aromatic flavor while simmering. Remove them before serving for a clean taste.
• Salt and Pepper: Basic seasonings like salt and pepper bring all the flavors together. Adjust to taste for optimal seasoning.
• Lemon Juice: A splash of lemon juice brightens the flavors, adding a refreshing citrus note that contrasts the soup’s richness.
• Red Pepper Flakes: These provide a touch of heat. Adjust the amount depending on how spicy you want your soup.

Helpful Tips and Add Your Touch

When making Vegan Cabbage Soup, remember to keep it simple. Start with fresh cabbage, vegetables, and broth for a flavorful base. You can use any plant-based broth to suit your taste. Don’t forget to add herbs like thyme or rosemary to boost the flavor.

Feel free to add more vegetables to your soup. Carrots, potatoes, and onions are great options to make the soup heartier. If you prefer a spicier taste, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

To enhance the texture, try blending a portion of the soup. This makes it creamier while still keeping the chunky texture. You can also add beans or lentils for extra protein and a fuller meal.

Vegan Cabbage Soup Variation

While the basic vegan cabbage soup recipe is full of flavor, you can customize it in many ways to suit your taste preferences. Here are some variations to try:

• Add beans: To make the soup more filling, add a can of beans like kidney beans, white beans, or chickpeas. These provide extra protein and fiber.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño pepper to the soup for a little kick.
• Use different veggies: Feel free to experiment with other vegetables such as zucchini, potatoes, or bell peppers to add variety.
• Add leafy greens: Throw in some spinach or kale toward the end of cooking to add a boost of vitamins and minerals.

How to Serve Vegan Cabbage Soup

Vegan cabbage soup is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas to enhance your meal:

• With a slice of crusty bread: A thick slice of whole grain or sourdough bread is perfect for dipping into the soup. You can also toast the bread and spread some avocado on top for a flavorful combination.
• Top with herbs: For extra freshness, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley or cilantro on top before serving.
• Pair with a salad: A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the soup and adds a refreshing crunch.
• Serve with a side of rice: For a more filling meal, serve the soup with a side of brown rice or quinoa. This combination gives you a complete plant-based meal with plenty of fiber.

Storage Options

If you have leftover vegan cabbage soup, you can store it for later. Here’s how:

• Refrigerator: Let the soup cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: To store the soup for longer, pour it into freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it on the stove.

FAQs About Vegan Cabbage Soup

Is vegan cabbage soup good for weight loss?
Yes, vegan cabbage soup is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great choice for weight loss. It fills you up without adding too many calories to your diet.

Can I freeze vegan cabbage soup?
Yes, vegan cabbage soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Just allow it to cool before storing in an airtight container or freezer bag.

How long does vegan cabbage soup last in the fridge?
Vegan cabbage soup can last up to 4-5 days in the fridge when stored in an airtight container. Be sure to reheat it properly before serving.

Is vegan cabbage soup gluten-free?
Yes, vegan cabbage soup is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that any added broth or seasonings are also free from gluten.

Healthy Vegan Cabbage Soup Recipe

Vegan cabbage soup is a plant-based dish made from cabbage,carrots, onions, garlic, and a variety of herbs and spices. It’s a great optionfor those looking for a low-calorie, nutritious meal that doesn’t compromise onflavor. The soup is usually prepared with vegetable broth, making it suitablefor vegans and vegetarians.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Course: Soup

Cuisine: American

Calories: 120

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 medium head of cabbage chopped
• 2 large carrots diced
• 1 large onion diced
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 1 teaspoon olive oil optional, for sautéing
• 6 cups vegetable broth store-bought or homemade
• 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice optional for a zesty kick
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional for a little heat

Equipment

• Large Stockpot or Dutch Oven
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Wooden Spoon or Ladle
• Soup Ladle

Method

 

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Chop your cabbage, carrots, onion, and garlic. Set everything aside, ready for the cooking process.
2. Heat the Pot: Place a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add olive oil and let it heat up. If you’re skipping the oil, you can also dry sauté the veggies.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: Add the diced onions and carrots to the pot and cook them for about 5-7 minutes, until they become soft and fragrant. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, making sure it doesn’t burn.
4. Add Cabbage and Broth: Toss in your chopped cabbage and stir to mix everything together. Add the vegetable broth, diced tomatoes (with their juices), dried thyme, oregano, and bay leaf. Stir well.
5. Simmer the Soup: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender. You can check the cabbage with a fork to see if it's cooked to your liking.
6. Season and Serve: Once the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together, season with salt and pepper to taste. If you’d like a zesty finish, add a squeeze of lemon juice. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

This Vegan Cabbage Soup is not only delicious but incredibly versatile. You can add other veggies, like potatoes, celery, or bell peppers, to make it your own. For a protein boost, try adding some cooked lentils or chickpeas. And if you want a richer flavor, swap the vegetable broth for a homemade vegetable stock. If you prefer a smoother texture, you can blend a portion of the soup and return it to the pot for a creamier consistency.