Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

  1. Shred the Cabbage: Remove the tough outer leaves and core the cabbage. Shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Chop the Vegetables: Dice the onion, slice the carrots and celery, and mince the garlic. If using potatoes, peel and dice them into small cubes.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
  2. Add the diced onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes until soft and translucent.
  3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables

  1. Stir in the sliced carrots, celery, and diced potatoes (if using).
  2. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the vegetables to soften slightly.

Step 4: Add the Cabbage

  1. Add the shredded cabbage to the pot.
  2. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring, until the cabbage begins to wilt.

Step 5: Create the Broth

  1. Add the vegetable or chicken broth to the pot, ensuring all the vegetables are submerged.
  2. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, bay leaves, thyme, and paprika.

Step 6: Simmer the Soup

  1. Bring the soup to a boil over medium-high heat.
  2. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until all the vegetables are tender.

Step 7: Taste and Adjust

  1. Remove the bay leaves from the pot.
  2. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

  1. Ladle the soup into bowls.
  2. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for added freshness and color.
  3. Serve hot with crusty bread or crackers on the side for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Cabbage Soup

  1. Use Savoy or Napa Cabbage: For a sweeter and more delicate flavor, substitute green cabbage with Savoy or Napa cabbage.
  2. Add Protein: For a heartier soup, add cooked beans (like cannellini or chickpeas), shredded chicken, or diced sausage.
  3. Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.
  4. Make It Ahead: Cabbage soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. It’s perfect for meal prep.