Cabbage Soup Crockpot Recipe: Save Time, Money, and Your Tastebuds!
When you think of a hearty, healthy, and budget-friendly meal, cabbage soup should be at the top of your list. Not only is it packed with nutrients, but it’s also one of the easiest dishes you can whip up—especially when you let your trusty crockpot do all the work.
Imagine coming home to a warm, flavorful pot of soup that’s ready to serve. Sounds dreamy, right? Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make the perfect cabbage soup in your crockpot.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you’ll need to create this cozy masterpiece:
Vegetables:
- 1 small head of green cabbage, chopped
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can of diced tomatoes (no salt added)
Protein (Optional):
- 1 pound of ground turkey, shredded chicken, or a plant-based protein like lentils.
Seasonings:
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
Liquids:
- 6 cups of vegetable or chicken broth (low-sodium recommended)
Feel free to tweak these ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand. This soup is as flexible as it is delicious.
Equipment Needed
You don’t need a fancy kitchen to make this happen! Grab the following:
- Crockpot or slow cooker
- Cutting board and a good knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
That’s it! Now let’s get cooking.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep Your Ingredients
Start by chopping your vegetables into bite-sized pieces. The smaller and more uniform the cuts, the more evenly everything will cook. If you’re using meat, brown it in a skillet first for added flavor.
2. Layer Everything in the Crockpot
Place the chopped cabbage, carrots, celery, onion, and garlic into the crockpot. If you’re using protein, add it now. Sprinkle in your seasonings, including the paprika, thyme, oregano, and bay leaf. Finally, pour the broth over everything.
3. Set It and Forget It
Cover your crockpot and set it to cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. During this time, the flavors will meld beautifully, and the cabbage will soften to perfection.
4. Taste and Adjust
Before serving, give the soup a taste. Adjust the salt and pepper as needed. If you want to brighten the flavor, squeeze in a bit of lemon juice or add a splash of apple cider vinegar.
5. Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley or dill if desired, and serve it hot. Pair it with some crusty bread or crackers for a satisfying meal.
Tips for Success
- Choosing the Right Cabbage: Green cabbage works best for this recipe, but you can also use savoy or even red cabbage for a twist.
- Flavor Boosts: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika can take your soup to the next level.
- Consistent Veggie Cuts: Uniformly chopped vegetables ensure even cooking and a better overall texture.
- Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
Variations and Add-Ons
This cabbage soup is versatile, so feel free to get creative:
- Low-Carb: Skip the potatoes or rice and stick to non-starchy veggies.
- Hearty Additions: Add beans, quinoa, or brown rice for extra substance.
- Custom Seasoning: Swap the thyme and oregano for Italian seasoning or add cumin for a different vibe.
Nutritional Information
A typical serving of this cabbage soup is low in calories and packed with vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. It’s a perfect option if you’re looking for a light but filling meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this soup as a standalone dish or pair it with your favorite sides. A slice of whole-grain bread, a crisp side salad, or some cheesy crackers can complement it beautifully. If you’re hosting, consider serving it as an appetizer before a main course.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup tastes even better after sitting for a day as the flavors have more time to meld. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge.
Q: What’s the best way to reheat cabbage soup?
Reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl.
Q: How long does this soup last in the fridge or freezer?
It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 5 days. If freezing, store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Q: Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Use vegetable broth and skip the meat. You can add plant-based proteins like lentils or chickpeas for extra heartiness.
Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Certainly. Substitute the canned tomatoes with 2-3 fresh tomatoes, diced. You may want to add a bit of tomato paste for a richer flavor.
Cabbage soup is the perfect mix of simplicity, nutrition, and comfort. Whether you’re making it for a weeknight dinner or prepping meals ahead of time, this crockpot recipe will quickly become a household favorite. Happy cooking!