Homemade Cabbage Vegetable Soup is a warm, wholesome, and deeply comforting dish that brings together tender cabbage, vibrant vegetables, and a gently simmered broth. This classic soup is light yet satisfying, offering clean flavors, natural sweetness, and a soothing aroma that fills the kitchen as it cooks.
Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or chilly days when you crave something nourishing, this soup highlights simple ingredients transformed through careful layering and slow simmering. Moreover, it is versatile, budget-friendly, and easy to adapt to seasonal vegetables.
Servings – Homemade Cabbage Vegetable Soup
Servings: 4–6 servings
Ideal as a light main course or a starter served with crusty bread.
Time Required for Homemade Cabbage Vegetable Soup
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Prep Time: 20 minutes
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Cook Time: 40 minutes
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Total Time: 1 hour
Ingredients for Homemade Cabbage Vegetable Soup
Main Ingredients
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400 g green cabbage, roughly chopped
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2 tbsp olive oil
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1 medium onion (120 g), finely chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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2 carrots (150 g), sliced
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2 celery stalks (100 g), sliced
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2 medium potatoes (300 g), diced
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2 ripe tomatoes (200 g), chopped
Liquids & Seasoning
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1.2 L vegetable stock
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1 bay leaf
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1 tsp paprika
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½ tsp dried thyme
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Salt, to taste
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Freshly ground black pepper
Optional Finishing
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Fresh parsley, chopped
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A squeeze of lemon juice
Step-by-Step Instructions – How to Make Homemade Cabbage Vegetable Soup
Step 1: Prepare the flavor base
First, heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté gently until soft and translucent. Then, add the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
Step 2: Build the vegetable foundation
Next, add the carrots and celery to the pot. Stir and cook for 3–4 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften slightly and release their natural sweetness.
Step 3: Add potatoes and tomatoes
Then, add the diced potatoes and chopped tomatoes. Stir well to combine, letting the tomatoes break down and coat the vegetables.
Step 4: Pour in the stock
Pour in the vegetable stock and add the bay leaf, paprika, and thyme. Bring the soup to a gentle boil. Meanwhile, the broth will begin to take on a rich color and aroma.
Step 5: Simmer and soften
Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the potatoes are nearly tender.
Step 6: Add the cabbage
Next, stir in the chopped cabbage. Continue simmering for another 15–20 minutes until the cabbage is tender but not mushy.
Step 7: Season and finish
Finally, season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf, stir in fresh parsley, and add a small squeeze of lemon juice if desired for brightness.
Variations of Homemade Cabbage Vegetable Soup
With Beans
Add 200 g of white beans or chickpeas for extra protein and heartiness.
With Meat
Moreover, include diced chicken, turkey, or smoked sausage for a more filling version.
Creamy Version
Blend a portion of the soup or add 100 ml of cream for a smoother, richer texture.
Spiced Version
Additionally, add cumin, chili flakes, or smoked paprika to introduce warmth and depth.
Seasonal Ingredient Swaps
In winter, add parsnips or turnips; in summer, zucchini and green beans work beautifully.
Tips for Perfect Results – Homemade Cabbage Vegetable Soup
Cut vegetables evenly
Uniform pieces ensure even cooking and balanced texture.
Don’t overcook the cabbage
However, prolonged simmering can make cabbage too soft and dull its flavor.
Taste as you go
In addition, seasoning gradually helps maintain a clean, vegetable-forward profile.
Let it rest
Allow the soup to rest for 10 minutes before serving so flavors can fully develop.
Storage advice
Store Homemade Cabbage Vegetable Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 2 months.
Final Thoughts
Homemade Cabbage Vegetable Soup is a timeless, nourishing recipe that celebrates simplicity and comfort. With tender vegetables, a flavorful broth, and endless variation options, it is a reliable dish for everyday cooking. Whether enjoyed as a light meal or part of a larger spread, this soup delivers warmth, balance, and homemade goodness in every bowl.
