Are you looking for a tasty and nutritious meal that’s easy to make? Look no further than this healthy vegan cabbage soup recipe! It’s perfect for cozy nights or when you’re trying to eat better. Let’s dive into this simple, hearty dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Vegan Cabbage Soup
This soup is more than just a diet trend. It’s a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s good for you too. The best part? It’s super easy to make, even if you’re not a cooking pro.
The soup is packed with veggies like cabbage, carrots, and celery. These ingredients not only taste great but also give you lots of nutrients. Plus, the soup is entirely plant-based, making it perfect for vegans or anyone looking to eat more veggies.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk about what goes into this yummy soup. You’ll need:
- Cabbage (about half a large head or one small one)
- Onions
- Celery
- Carrots
- Garlic
- Diced tomatoes
- Tomato paste
- Vegetable broth
- Olive oil
- Herbs and spices (oregano, salt, pepper, and a bit of cayenne for heat)
Don’t worry if you’re not a fan of spicy food. You can adjust the cayenne pepper to your liking or leave it out completely.
How to Make Your Vegan Cabbage Soup
Now, let’s get cooking! This soup is all about building flavors step by step. Here’s how to do it:
- Start with the base. Heat some olive oil in a big pot. Add chopped onions, celery, and carrots. Cook them until they’re soft, and the onions look a bit see-through.
- Add flavor boosters. Toss in minced garlic and your spices. This includes salt, pepper, oregano, and cayenne if you’re using it. Let these cook for about a minute until you can really smell the garlic.
- Bring in the tomatoes. Add diced tomatoes with their juice and some tomato paste. The paste gives the soup a deeper, richer flavor.
- Pour in the broth. Add your vegetable broth and stir everything.
- Time for cabbage! Once the soup is boiling, add your chopped cabbage. Remember, it will shrink as it cooks, so don’t be afraid to add plenty.
- Let it simmer. Cover the pot and let the soup cook for about 20 minutes. This gives all the flavors time to mix and the cabbage time to get nice and soft.
- Finish with fresh herbs. Once the soup is done, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for extra flavor and color.
Tips for the Best Vegan Cabbage Soup
Here are some handy tips to make your soup even better:
- Season as you go. Add a little salt and pepper each time you put in new ingredients. This helps build flavor throughout the cooking process.
- Save your veggie scraps. Keep things like onion skins and carrot ends in a freezer bag. You can use these to make your own veggie broth later!
- Don’t overcook the cabbage. You want it soft but not mushy. About 20 minutes of simmering should do the trick.
- Experiment with toppings. Try adding a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for extra flavor.
Why This Soup is Great for You
Photo Credit: freepik
This vegan cabbage soup isn’t just tasty – it’s good for you too! Here’s why:
- It’s low in calories but high in nutrients, making it great for weight management.
- Cabbage is packed with vitamins C and K, and it’s good for your digestion.
- The soup is full of fiber, which helps you feel full and satisfied.
- It’s hydrating, which is important for your overall health.
Storing and Reheating Your Soup
Good news – this soup tastes even better the next day! Here’s how to keep it fresh:
- Store in the fridge: Put your cooled soup in an airtight container. It’ll stay good in the fridge for 3-4 days.
- Freeze it: This soup freezes well. Store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Reheat with care: Warm the soup gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of water if it seems too thick.
Get Cooking!
Now that you know how to make this delicious, healthy vegan cabbage soup, it’s time to give it a try! It’s perfect for meal prep, chilly evenings, or anytime you want a comforting, nutritious meal.
Remember, cooking is all about having fun and making the recipe your own. Feel free to adjust the spices or add your favorite veggies. The most important thing is that you enjoy your creation!
So, grab your pot, chop those veggies, and get ready to enjoy a bowl of warm, comforting goodness. Your taste buds (and your body) will thank you!
FAQs
Can I use red cabbage instead of green?
Yes, you can use red cabbage. It will change the color of the soup. The taste will be slightly different but still delicious.
Is this soup good for weight loss?
Yes, it’s low in calories and high in fiber. This makes it filling and good for weight management. Always consult a doctor for dietary advice.
How long does this soup last in the fridge?
The soup stays fresh for 3-4 days in the fridge. Store it in an airtight container. Reheat thoroughly before eating.
Can I add protein to this soup?
Absolutely! Try adding beans or lentils. Tofu or tempeh work well too. These will boost the protein content while keeping it vegan.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure your vegetable broth is gluten-free too.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, it works great in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
What if I don’t like spicy food?
No problem! Skip the cayenne pepper. The soup will still be flavorful without it.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, it freezes well. Store in freezer-safe containers. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer.
Photo Credit: freepik