This vibrant Cabbage Fat-burning Soup is packed with fresh veggies like cabbage, carrots, and tomatoes. It’s light, tasty, and perfect for a comforting meal!
Making this soup feels like a warm hug in a bowl. I love how you can have seconds without the guilt—plus, it warms you right up. Who’s counting calories anyway? 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: Green cabbage is ideal for this soup. Its mild flavor and crunchy texture make it perfect for cooking down. You can substitute it with Napa cabbage or savoy cabbage if you prefer a different texture.
Vegetable Broth: I like using vegetable broth for added flavor, but you can use water if you’re in a pinch. For a richer taste, consider homemade bone broth or mushroom broth as alternatives.
Carrots: They add sweetness and color. If you don’t have carrots, sweet potatoes or parsnips can work well in this recipe.
Seasonings: Dried thyme and smoked paprika are key for flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper can add a nice kick.
Additional Vegetables: Feel free to customize! I often toss in whatever veggies I have on hand, like zucchini, green beans, or spinach, for more variety and nutrition.
How Do I Prepare the Vegetables for the Soup?
Preparing your vegetables properly will enhance the soup’s flavor and texture. Here’s how to do it:
- Chop Evenly: Cut your vegetables into similar sizes. This ensures they cook evenly. I like to dice the onions and garlic finely to blend well.
- Sautéing: Start with the harder veggies like onions, carrots, and celery, as they take longer to soften. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant.
- Layering Flavors: After adding the cabbage, cook it for a few minutes before adding liquids. This helps enhance its flavor!
With these simple steps and tweaks, your cabbage soup will be flavorful and delicious every time! Happy cooking!
How to Make Cabbage Fat-burning Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 6 cups vegetable broth or water
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Vegetables:
- 1-2 cups of additional vegetables (such as zucchini, green beans, or spinach)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This soup takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 30 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need around 40 minutes before it’s ready to enjoy! Perfect for a quick and healthy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Base Vegetables:
Start by heating a splash of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is warm, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrots, chopped celery, and diced bell pepper. Sauté these vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and fragrant.
2. Add the Cabbage:
Now it’s time to stir in the chopped cabbage. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cabbage begins to soften. This will add a wonderful texture to your soup!
3. Combine Remaining Ingredients:
Next, add the can of diced tomatoes (with all the juice), the vegetable broth (or water), dried thyme, smoked paprika, and season with salt and pepper. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to let it simmer.
4. Simmer the Soup:
Let the soup simmer for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow all the flavors to mingle together and the vegetables to become tender. It’s smelling great already!
5. Add Optional Vegetables:
If you want to boost your soup with some extra nutrition, add any additional vegetables you like (such as zucchini, green beans, or spinach) in the last 10-15 minutes of cooking.
6. Taste and Serve:
Finally, give the soup a taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve it hot, and if you’d like, garnish with some fresh herbs to make it extra special. Enjoy your healthy and delicious fat-burning soup!
Can I Use Fresh Tomatoes Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! You can substitute fresh tomatoes for canned. Use about 4-5 medium-sized fresh tomatoes, diced, and remember to add a bit of extra liquid (like water or broth) to compensate for the juice in canned tomatoes. It’s a delicious way to make the soup even fresher!
How Can I Adjust the Spice Level of the Soup?
If you prefer a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños along with the other vegetables. Start with a small amount and taste as you go, adding more as desired. For a milder flavor, simply omit the smoked paprika or reduce it.
Can I Store Leftovers and How Long Do They Last?
Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure to cool the soup completely before sealing it. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months; just be sure to leave some space in the container as the soup will expand when frozen.
Is It Possible to Add Protein to This Soup?
Definitely! You can add cooked beans, lentils, or shredded chicken for a protein boost. Simply stir in your choice of protein during the last 10 minutes of cooking to heat through. This will make your soup more filling while still being healthy!
