Nothing warms the heart and soul quite like a homemade soup, and for me, Garlicky Cabbage Soup holds a special place in my culinary journey. I vividly remember spending cold winter afternoons at my grandmother’s house, where the aroma of garlic and sautéing onions would swirl through the air, inviting us all to gather around the kitchen table. It was this simple soup that taught me the beauty of cooking — how the simplest ingredients can come together to create something nourishing and delicious. Each spoonful conveyed her love and warmth, which is what I aim to replicate every time I make this dish.
Recipe Timing
- Prep Duration: 10 minutes
- Active Cooking: 25 minutes
- Total Duration: 35 minutes
- Portion Size: Serves 4
- Complexity: Simple
Nutritional Recipe
- Calories per portion: Approximately 175 calories
- Protein: 4 grams
- Carbs: 24 grams
- Fats: 7 grams
- Fiber: 5 grams
- Sugars: 3 grams
- Sodium: 350 mg
Why You’ll Love This Garlicky Cabbage Soup
This Garlicky Cabbage Soup is a delightful homage to simplicity. It’s not just a soup; it’s a warm embrace on a chilly day, full of wholesome flavors that nourish the body and comfort the soul. With the earthy notes of caraway seeds and the robust kick of garlic, this soup awakens the palate while being easy on the waistline. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a cozy dinner, or simply a way to enjoy a bowl of vibrant vegetables, this recipe delivers. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it a perfect weeknight solution for busy cooks!
The Complete Cooking Journey
Once you gather your ingredients, the cooking process is a breeze that melds memories with magic. You’ll find joy in every step, from sautéing aromatic garlic and onions to letting the cabbage soften into a savory delight. The simplicity of this soup allows for the flavors to shine, making it a timeless favorite that you’ll return to again and again.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Method:
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they become fragrant and softened, about 3-4 minutes.
Step 2: Cook Cabbage and Spices
Next, add in the chopped cabbage and sprinkle in the caraway seeds. Stir occasionally and let this mixture cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the cabbage to wilt slightly.
Step 3: Add Vegetable Broth
Pour in the vegetable broth, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes. As the cabbage becomes tender, your kitchen will be filled with a warm, inviting aroma.
Step 5: Final Seasoning
After the simmering process, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. It’s important to balance the flavors to your liking.
Step 6: Serve with Love
Serve the soup hot, generously garnished with fresh chopped parsley. Each bowl should feel like a warm hug!
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
This Garlicky Cabbage Soup is versatile and pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad. For a heartier meal, serve it alongside a grilled cheese sandwich or you can even add a dollop of sour cream for a rich, creamy contrast.
Storage & Leftovers Guide
If you find yourself with leftovers — which I hope you do because it tastes even better the next day! — store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months. When reheating, simply add a splash of water or broth if it has thickened too much.
Kitchen Wisdom & Success Tips
- For extra depth of flavor, consider sautéing the garlic and onion in butter instead of olive oil.
- If you enjoy a bit of heat, throw in a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic and onion.
- You can transform this soup into a heartier meal by adding beans or lentils.
Flavor Variations & Adaptations
Feel free to get creative! Add in other veggies like carrots or potatoes for a heartier texture. You can even toss in some leafy greens like spinach or kale towards the end of cooking for an extra nutrient boost.
Reader Questions & Solutions
- What can I substitute for cabbage?
If cabbage isn’t your favorite, kale or Swiss chard can work nicely in this recipe. - Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! It actually gets better with time as the flavors meld together. - What if I don’t have caraway seeds?
Fennel seeds or dill could be a flavorful substitute, providing a slightly different twist. - How do I make it vegan?
This recipe is naturally vegan since you are using vegetable broth. Just ensure your broth is labeled as vegan! - Can I add meat to this soup?
Yes! Shredded chicken or diced sausage would be a lovely addition for those who want to incorporate meat.
Wrapping Up
Making Garlicky Cabbage Soup isn’t just about creating a meal — it’s about connecting with the food, the process, and ultimately, with those we share it with. Each bowl tells a story, and I encourage you to make this cozy dish and gather your loved ones around the table. Embrace the process and savor every spoonful — because, in the end, it’s not just about feeding the body; it’s about feeding the soul. Happy cooking!
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Garlicky Cabbage Soup
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A warm and nourishing Garlicky Cabbage Soup, perfect for chilly days, featuring simple ingredients that come together for a delightful dish.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 4 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant and softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the chopped cabbage and sprinkle in the caraway seeds. Stir occasionally and let this cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the cabbage to wilt slightly.
- Pour in the vegetable broth, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, stirring occasionally.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-25 minutes until the cabbage is tender.
- After simmering, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Serve the soup hot, generously garnished with fresh parsley.
Notes
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a grilled cheese sandwich. It tastes even better the next day!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Comfort Food
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 175
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 24g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
