High Protein ReciperecRecipe

Classic Cabbage Soup

Updated on 3 min read

This Classic Cabbage Soup is warm, satisfying, and loaded with fresh vegetables like cabbage, celery, carrots, tomatoes, and onions. It’s known for being low-calorie, simple to make, and ideal when you want something lighter during the week.
The broth is flavorful but not heavy, and the vegetables stay pleasantly tender. It’s a budget-friendly, big-batch soup that fits perfectly into meal prep or gentle, clean eating days.

Servings and Timing

Yield: 6–8 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25–30 minutes
Total Time: About 40 minutes

Nutritional Info (Per Bowl – Approximate)

  • Calories: 70
  • Fat: 0.5g
  • Carbs: 14g
  • Protein: 2g
    (Values vary depending on broth and vegetable amounts.)

Ingredients

Vegetables

  • 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
  • 3 celery stalks, sliced
  • 3 carrots, sliced
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, chopped (optional)

Broth & Base

  • 1 can (14.5 oz / 411g) diced tomatoes
  • 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
  • 1–2 tablespoons tomato paste (optional, for richness)

Seasonings

  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • ½ teaspoon onion powder
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Tools You’ll Need

  • Large soup pot or Dutch oven
  • Cutting board and knife
  • Ladle
  • Storage containers (for meal prep)

How to Make Classic Cabbage Soup

1. Sauté the Base Vegetables

Heat a small amount of oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add:

  • chopped onion
  • celery
  • carrots
  • garlic

Cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened and fragrant.

2. Add Remaining Vegetables

Stir in:

  • chopped cabbage
  • bell pepper (optional)
  • diced tomatoes

Mix well to combine.

3. Add Broth and Seasonings

Pour in the broth and add:

  • salt
  • pepper
  • paprika
  • Italian seasoning
  • garlic powder
  • onion powder

Stir well and bring to a boil.

4. Simmer Until Tender

Reduce heat to low and simmer 20–25 minutes
or until all vegetables are soft and flavors are blended.

Taste and adjust seasoning.

5. Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and top with fresh parsley.
Serve warm.

Ingredient Additions & Substitutions

Flavor Variations

  • Add red pepper flakes for heat
  • Add Worcestershire sauce for richness
  • Add lemon juice at the end for brightness

Protein Options

  • Add shredded chicken
  • Add ground turkey or beef
  • Add white beans or chickpeas

Vegetable Add-Ins

  • Zucchini
  • Spinach or kale
  • Mushrooms

Serving Suggestions

  • Serve with crusty bread for a fuller meal
  • Enjoy as part of a light weekly menu
  • Use as a base and add protein for variety
  • Make a double batch for family meal prep

Tips for Best Results

  • Cut vegetables evenly for consistent cooking
  • Use a flavorful broth for deeper taste
  • Add tomato paste for a richer soup
  • Make ahead — the flavor improves by the next day
  • Season generously; cabbage absorbs flavor

Storage Instructions

Refrigerator:
Store in an airtight container for 4–5 days.

Freezer:
Freeze for up to 2 months.
Thaw overnight and reheat on the stove.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes. Add all ingredients and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

Q: Will the vegetables get mushy?

The soup stays tender but not mushy when cooked for 20–25 minutes. For firmer vegetables, reduce cooking time slightly.

Q: Is this soup low-calorie?

Yes. It’s made almost entirely from vegetables and broth, making it naturally light.

Conclusion

Classic Cabbage Soup is simple, warming, and ideal when you want a lighter, vegetable-focused meal. With basic pantry ingredients and fresh vegetables, this recipe delivers both flavor and comfort in every bowl.

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