Healthy Cabbage Soup
Why Make This Recipe
Healthy Cabbage Soup is a nourishing and delicious dish that offers a variety of benefits. First, it is packed with vitamins and minerals because it contains fresh vegetables like cabbage, carrots, and tomatoes. These ingredients are not only good for your health but also help in keeping you fuller for longer, making it a great meal for anyone trying to eat lighter or lose weight.
Moreover, this soup is incredibly easy to make. Using an Instant Pot allows you to spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal. The one-pot cooking method means fewer dishes and less cleanup too! If you’re someone who leads a busy life, this is the perfect recipe to add to your meal prep rotation.
Healthy Cabbage Soup is also quite affordable. Most of the ingredients are inexpensive and commonly found in your local grocery store or farmers’ market. You can also customize the recipe based on what you already have at home, making it easier on your wallet.
Finally, this soup is very versatile. You can add your favorite ingredients or spices, or even make it heartier with proteins like beans or chicken. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to adjust the flavors to suit your tastes.
How to Make Healthy Cabbage Soup
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Directions:
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Start by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté mode. Add the olive oil along with the chopped onions and minced garlic. Cook until fragrant and onions are translucent (about 2-3 minutes).
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Add the diced carrots and chopped cabbage, sautéing for about 5 minutes. This step adds flavor and helps soften the vegetables a little before pressure cooking.
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Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes, stirring well. Mixing these ingredients together ensures that all the flavors come together nicely.
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Add the dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir again to distribute the spices evenly throughout the soup.
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Close the lid of the Instant Pot, set it to high pressure, and cook for 10 minutes. The pressure cooking process helps to lock in all the nutrients and flavors.
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Allow the pressure to release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release the remaining pressure. This method helps to prevent the soup from overcooking and keeps it perfectly tender.
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Serve hot, garnished as desired. You can add herbs, a sprinkle of cheese, or even a dollop of sour cream for extra flavor.
How to Serve Healthy Cabbage Soup
Healthy Cabbage Soup can be served in many ways. Traditionally, it is enjoyed on its own, especially as a light lunch or dinner option. You can also serve it with crusty whole-grain bread on the side for a complete meal.
For those who love garnishes, you may want to sprinkle some fresh herbs like parsley or dill on top before serving. Adding a squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten up the flavors. If you enjoy a bit of spice, consider adding a few dashes of hot sauce or red pepper flakes in each bowl.
Finally, this soup can be paired with a simple side salad or sandwich for a heartier meal. Whether you keep it simple or get a bit fancy, Healthy Cabbage Soup is sure to please your taste buds.
How to Store Healthy Cabbage Soup
Storing Healthy Cabbage Soup is straightforward. Allow the soup to cool down to room temperature first. Once cooled, transfer it to airtight containers. It’s best to use glass jars or BPA-free plastic containers for storage.
You can keep the soup in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. If you wish to store it for a longer period, consider freezing the soup. Place the cooled soup in freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top to allow for expansion. You can freeze it for up to 3 months.
When you are ready to enjoy the soup again, you can thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a little water or broth if it’s too thick.
Tips to Make Healthy Cabbage Soup
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Don’t Skip the Sauté Step: Sautéing the onions and garlic before pressure cooking adds depth to the flavor of the soup.
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Customize the Vegetables: This recipe is flexible. Feel free to use other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach based on what you have on hand.
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Add Protein: For a heartier meal, you can add canned beans, cooked lentils, or shredded chicken.
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Adjust the Seasoning: Don’t be afraid to taste the soup before serving. You can always adjust the salt, pepper, or any additional spices to suit your preference.
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Garnish Wisely: Fresh herbs are not only pretty but can also add a significant boost in flavor. Consider basil, cilantro, or parsley as options.
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Use Low-Sodium Broth: If you are watching your sodium intake, opt for low-sodium vegetable broth. You can always adjust the seasoning later to taste.
Variation
While this recipe is delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to put a spin on it. Here are a few variations you might enjoy:
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Spicy Cabbage Soup: Add diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
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Mediterranean Twist: Incorporate ingredients like olives, feta cheese, and a splash of lemon juice to give the soup a Mediterranean flair.
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Creamy Cabbage Soup: After cooking, blend a portion of the soup to create a creamy texture. You can add a splash of coconut milk or cream for richness.
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Herbed-Cabbage Soup: Try adding different fresh herbs such as basil, dill, or rosemary to customize the flavor profile even further.
FAQs
1. Can I use green or purple cabbage?
Yes, both green and purple cabbage work well in this recipe. The difference will be mainly in color and subtle flavor.
2. Is Healthy Cabbage Soup suitable for vegans?
Absolutely! This recipe uses vegetable broth and no animal products, making it perfect for vegans.
3. How can I make this soup gluten-free?
This recipe is already gluten-free as it does not contain any wheat products. Just make sure your vegetable broth is labeled gluten-free.
4. Can I use frozen vegetables?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables in place of fresh ones. Just keep in mind that frozen vegetables may have a different texture after cooking.
5. How long does it take to cook in a regular pot instead of an Instant Pot?
If you are cooking on the stovetop, it will take about 30-40 minutes. Bring the ingredients to a boil, then let it simmer until the vegetables are tender.
Healthy Cabbage Soup is a simple, yet flavorful dish that can be made in under an hour and enjoyed for days. With its numerous health benefits and variations, it is a meal that can easily fit into any lifestyle. Whether you are on a health kick or merely looking for a comforting bowl of soup, this recipe should be at the top of your list! Enjoy!
