I absolutely adore Cozy Cabbage Soup! It’s one of those comforting dishes that makes me feel all warm and fuzzy inside, particularly during those chilly winter evenings when all you want is to curl up on the couch with a hearty bowl of goodness. This soup is not just a seasonal treat, it carries with it the scent of home and warm memories. My grandmother used to make this soup each winter, filling the house with an earthy aroma that could make anyone feel right at home. I find joy in recreating that magic and sharing it with friends and family.
What makes this recipe even more special to me is how easy it is to make! You can throw in whatever vegetables you have on hand, and it’s incredibly versatile – you can make it vegetarian or beef it up with some meat. No strict rules here, just deliciousness in a bowl! Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in those veggies we all sometimes overlook. So, let’s dive into what makes this Cozy Cabbage Soup so fantastic.
What’s in Cozy Cabbage Soup?
Cabbage: The star of the show! I love using green cabbage for its sweetness and texture, but red cabbage can also add beautiful color to your soup.
Carrots: These vibrant orange veggies add both sweetness and texture. I prefer using fresh carrots for that extra crunch.
Onion: A sautéed onion provides a deep, savory base. I usually go for yellow onions because they add a perfect mix of sweetness and sharpness.
Garlic: Because what’s cooking without garlic, right? It adds a lovely aroma and flavor boost!
Vegetable or Chicken Broth: This is the flavorful base of the soup. I always reach for low-sodium options to keep it healthier.
Potatoes: They provide heartiness to the soup and make it even more filling. I recommend using Yukon Gold potatoes for their buttery texture.
Tomatoes: I’m all about diced tomatoes – the canned kind works wonders in soaking up flavors while adding a hint of acidity.
Herbs and Spices: A sprinkle of thyme and a bay leaf add depth, while salt and pepper elevate the flavors. Fresh herbs like parsley can also brighten things up!
Is Cozy Cabbage Soup Good for You?
Absolutely! Cozy Cabbage Soup is packed with nutrients and benefits.
Cabbage: It’s a powerhouse of vitamins, especially Vitamin K and C, plus fiber, which is great for digestion.
Carrots: Loaded with beta-carotene, they promote healthy eyesight and skin.
Onion and Garlic: Both are known for their immune-boosting properties, which come in handy when winter hits hard.
Broth: Depending on your choice, low-sodium broth can help keep the sodium levels in check while providing hydration.
The only thing to consider is that if you’re sensitive to certain vegetables, you might want to adjust the ingredients accordingly. But honestly, you can customize this soup to fit your taste – it’s very forgiving!
Ingredients for Cozy Cabbage Soup
This recipe serves about 6 hearty bowls, perfect for a gathering or meal prep for the week.
– 1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped
– 2 large carrots, diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 4 cups of vegetable or chicken broth
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 tsp dried thyme
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)
How to Make Cozy Cabbage Soup?
1. Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and toss in the chopped onion. Sauté it for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant.
2. Add the minced garlic and diced carrots to the pot, stirring frequently for another 3-4 minutes until things start to soften up.
3. Now, it’s time to introduce the cabbage! Add the chopped cabbage and cook for a few minutes until it begins wilting down.
4. Pour in the broth, followed by the potatoes, diced tomatoes (with their juices), thyme, and the bay leaf. Stir everything together until well combined.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes are tender.
6. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaf before serving. Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Serve it hot, garnished with fresh parsley if you fancy. Grab a cozy blanket and dig in!
Sips of Comfort: Variations and Tips
– Want a little protein boost? Feel free to add in some cooked shredded chicken or a can of beans for an extra punch of protein.
– If you’re craving some heat, throw in a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick!
– This soup is freezer-friendly, so make a big batch and store some for those lazy days when cooking feels like a chore.
I truly hope you give this Cozy Cabbage Soup a try! It’s one of those recipes that invites all the good vibes to your kitchen. Plus, I’d love to hear your thoughts on it! Whether you made any adjustments or just want to share how it went, drop me a message or a comment. Happy cooking, and may your kitchens always feel cozy!
