As the weather cools down, there’s nothing like a warm, comforting bowl of cabbage soup to cozy up with. The humble head of cabbage is transformed into a rich and satisfying meal when combined with aromatic spices, savory meats, and nourishing vegetables. Whether you’re looking for a classic comfort food or an international twist, we’ve got you covered! Below are 20 delicious and hearty cabbage soup recipes that will keep you warm and satisfied all winter long.
Classic Cabbage and Potato Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly day. This recipe combines the sweetness of cabbage with the earthiness of potatoes, all wrapped up in a creamy broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 2-3 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the chopped cabbage and cook until it starts to soften, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the diced potatoes, broth, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Use an immersion blender (or transfer the soup to a blender in batches) to puree the soup until smooth.
5. If desired, stir in the milk or heavy cream to add a creamy touch.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Spicy Kimchi Cabbage Soup
This hearty and spicy soup is a twist on traditional kimchi, featuring tender cabbage and a bold, fiery flavor profile. Perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a pick-me-up during the colder months.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 cups kimchi, chopped
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine chopped cabbage and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes or until cabbage is tender.
2. Add kimchi, Gochujang, soy sauce, red pepper flakes, and garlic to the pot. Stir well.
3. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
4. Simmer soup for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
5. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Creamy Cabbage and Bacon Soup
This hearty soup combines the comforting flavors of crispy bacon, tender cabbage, and rich cream, making it a perfect meal for a chilly evening. With its velvety texture and depth of flavor, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 6 slices of bacon, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the cooked bacon from the pot with a slotted spoon and set aside.
3. Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the chopped cabbage to the pot and cook until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and cooked bacon. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegetarian Cabbage and Lentil Soup
This nourishing soup is a perfect blend of fiber-rich lentils, crunchy cabbage, and aromatic spices. Enjoy a warm and comforting bowl on a chilly day.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 head cabbage, shredded
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the shredded cabbage and cook until wilted.
3. Add the lentils, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, and cumin. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the lentils are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Beef and Cabbage Soup with Tomatoes
A classic comfort food recipe that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this beef and cabbage soup with tomatoes is a flavorful and nutritious meal option.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef stew meat (such as chuck or round)
– 2 medium-sized onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, shredded
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onions and cook until they’re translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the beef stew meat and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Add the shredded cabbage, beef broth, diced tomatoes, and thyme to the pot.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Asian-Inspired Cabbage and Mushroom Soup
This hearty soup combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with the crunch of cabbage, all wrapped up in a savory broth infused with Asian spices. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a comforting pick-me-up any time of year.
Ingredients:
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as shiitake and cremini), sliced
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat sesame oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add cabbage and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Pour in vegetable broth, ginger, and soy sauce. Bring to a simmer.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rustic Cabbage and Sausage Soup
Rustic Cabbage and Sausage Soup Recipe
A hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this Rustic Cabbage and Sausage Soup is made with tender cabbage, flavorful sausage, and aromatic spices. Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, chopped
– 1 pound sweet or hot Italian sausage, sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup milk or heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add the sliced sausage and cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
3. Add the chopped cabbage, garlic, chicken broth, milk or heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Garlicky Cabbage and White Bean Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that combines the sweetness of cabbage with the creaminess of cannellini beans, all infused with a savory garlic flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can (15 oz) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
3. Add the chopped cabbage and cook until wilted, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the cannellini beans, chicken broth, and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet and Sour Cabbage Soup
A hearty and flavorful soup that’s perfect for a chilly evening, this Sweet and Sour Cabbage Soup is a twist on the classic recipe. With its tangy sweetness and savory flavors, it’s sure to become a new favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup water
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the chopped cabbage, chicken broth, water, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Low-Carb Cabbage and Chicken Soup
A comforting and nutritious soup that’s perfect for a chilly day, this recipe combines the flavors of chicken, cabbage, and spices to create a deliciously low-carb meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups chopped cabbage
– 4 cups chicken broth (make sure it’s low-sodium)
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons coconut oil or olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot and set aside.
3. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes.
4. Add the cabbage, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pot. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the cabbage starts to wilt.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
German-Style Cabbage and Apple Soup
Warm up with a hearty bowl of this comforting soup, blending the sweetness of apples with the earthiness of cabbage.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cups shredded cabbage (white or green)
– 2 apples, peeled and chopped (Granny Smith or Braeburn work well)
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup milk or heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion in butter until softened.
2. Add the shredded cabbage and cook until slightly wilted, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped apples, chicken broth, milk or heavy cream, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Moroccan Spiced Cabbage and Chickpea Soup
This hearty soup combines the comforting flavors of cabbage and chickpeas with the warm spices of Morocco, perfect for a cozy evening meal. Aromatic cumin, coriander, and cinnamon add depth to this easy-to-make, nutritious dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add cabbage, chickpeas, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until cabbage is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Russian Shchi (Cabbage Soup with Beef)
Shchi is a traditional Russian soup that warms the heart and soul. This hearty, comforting dish is made with tender beef, sautéed onions, and shredded cabbage in a rich broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef brisket or shank, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cups shredded green cabbage
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 carrots, peeled and grated
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh dill, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Brown the beef in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until they’re translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add cabbage, broth, tomatoes, carrots, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until the meat is tender.
4. Season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Garnish with chopped fresh dill, if desired.
Cooking Time: 1 hour
Thai Coconut Cabbage Soup
This Thai-inspired soup combines the crunch of cabbage with the creaminess of coconut milk, creating a flavorful and nutritious meal. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can coconut milk
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon Thai red curry paste
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add chopped cabbage, coconut milk, broth, ginger, and curry paste. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until cabbage is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Simple Cabbage and Onion Soup
A hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for a chilly day, this Simple Cabbage and Onion Soup is a great way to warm up with a delicious and nutritious meal. With just a few ingredients, you can create a flavorful and filling soup that’s sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized onion, chopped
– 2 cups of shredded cabbage
– 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/2 cup of milk or cream (optional)
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion in a little bit of oil until it’s translucent.
2. Add the shredded cabbage and cook until it starts to soften, about 5 minutes.
3. Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
5. Use an immersion blender or a regular blender to puree the soup until smooth.
6. If desired, add milk or cream to thin out the soup to your liking.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Hungarian Cabbage Soup with Paprika
A hearty and comforting Hungarian classic, this cabbage soup is flavored with smoky paprika and a touch of caraway for added depth. Perfect for a chilly evening or as a side dish to pair with your favorite main courses.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground caraway seeds
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add garlic, caraway seeds, and paprika. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add cabbage, broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Cabbage and Tomato Soup
A hearty and flavorful soup that combines the sweetness of tomatoes with the crunch of cabbage, all infused with Mediterranean spices and herbs. This recipe is perfect for a cozy evening meal or as a comforting lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 large head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chopped cabbage and cook until wilted, about 10 minutes.
5. Stir in the diced tomatoes, dried oregano, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
6. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
7. Reduce heat and let soup cook for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Curried Cabbage and Carrot Soup
Warm up with a comforting bowl of this aromatic soup, where the sweetness of carrots meets the earthiness of cabbage.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups shredded cabbage
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and grated
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 teaspoons curry powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup coconut milk or heavy cream (optional)
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add the cabbage, carrots, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
3. Stir in the diced tomatoes and vegetable broth. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
4. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup or transfer it to a blender and blend until smooth.
5. If desired, stir in coconut milk or heavy cream for added richness.
6. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Polish Kapusniak (Sauerkraut and Cabbage Soup)
Kapusniak is a traditional Polish soup that combines the comforting flavors of sauerkraut and cabbage. This hearty soup is perfect for a chilly day or as a side dish for your favorite Polish dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 head of cabbage, shredded
– 1 cup sauerkraut, drained and chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the shredded cabbage and chopped sauerkraut. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and add caraway seeds. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the flavors have melded together.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Quick Cabbage and Noodle Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect solution for a busy day when you need something nourishing and filling, yet quick to prepare. Made with simple ingredients, it’s a great way to get a flavorful meal on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium cabbage, chopped
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup noodles (such as egg noodles or rice noodles)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add the chopped cabbage and cook until it starts to soften, about 5 minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
6. Cook noodles according to package instructions and add to the soup.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Cozy up with these 20 hearty cabbage soup recipes! From classic potato and bacon combinations to spicy kimchi and international flavors, there’s something for everyone. Try “Classic Cabbage and Potato Soup” for a comforting start, or spice things up with “Spicy Kimchi Cabbage Soup”. For meat-lovers, options like “Beef and Cabbage Soup with Tomatoes” and “Rustic Cabbage and Sausage Soup” are sure to please. Vegetarian and vegan options abound, too, including “Vegetarian Cabbage and Lentil Soup” and “Thai Coconut Cabbage Soup”. Whatever your taste, there’s a cabbage soup recipe here to warm your belly and your heart.
