Vegan cabbage soup is a hearty, flavorful, and budget-friendly dish that’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a light lunch. This recipe is incredibly easy to follow, even for beginner cooks, and yields a pot of comforting soup that will warm you from the inside out.
Why You’ll Love This Vegan Cabbage Soup
This vegan cabbage soup recipe is more than just a simple soup; it’s a celebration of humble ingredients transformed into a symphony of flavors. Here’s why you’ll want to add this to your weekly meal plan:
- Budget-Friendly: Cabbage, carrots, and onions are all inexpensive ingredients, making this soup easy on the wallet.
- Packed with Flavor: The combination of vegetables, herbs, and spices creates a depth of flavor that’s both savory and satisfying.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Cabbage is a good source of vitamins and fiber, making this soup a healthy and nourishing meal.
- Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll have a delicious pot of soup ready in no time.
- Versatile: Serve it as a main course with a side of crusty bread or as a light and flavorful starter.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Vegan Cabbage Soup with Olive Oil - 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 head of green cabbage, cored and chopped
- 8 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
How to Make Vegan Cabbage Soup
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery and cook for about 5-7 minutes, until softened.
Sauteed Vegetables for Vegan Cabbage Soup- Add Garlic and Cabbage: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Add the chopped cabbage and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour in the Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the vegetable broth, dried thyme, and dried oregano. Season generously with salt and black pepper.
- Simmering Vegan Cabbage Soup
- Simmer to Perfection: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs to your preference.
Sauteed Vegetables for Vegan Cabbage Soup
Simmering Vegan Cabbage SoupTips for the Best Vegan Cabbage Soup
- Cabbage Variations: For a twist on the classic, try using a combination of green cabbage and red cabbage. You can also add shredded Savoy cabbage for a slightly milder flavor.
- Boost the Flavor: A tablespoon of tomato paste added to the pot along with the vegetables adds a rich, umami flavor to the soup.
- Don’t Overcook the Cabbage: The cabbage should be tender but still have a slight crunch. Overcooked cabbage can make the soup mushy.
- Garnish and Serve: A dollop of vegan sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill can add a final touch of flavor and freshness.
“The beauty of a good cabbage soup lies in its simplicity. High-quality vegetable broth is key to amplifying the flavors of the vegetables.” – Chef Anya Sharma
FAQs About Vegan Cabbage Soup
Can I freeze vegan cabbage soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
What can I serve with vegan cabbage soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread for dipping or a side of a simple salad. For a heartier meal, serve it with vegan spring rolls.
Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Follow the recipe instructions up to the simmering step. Instead of simmering on the stovetop, transfer the soup to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Can I use different herbs?
Feel free to experiment with other herbs like bay leaf, rosemary, or marjoram.
What’s a good vegan alternative to sour cream for garnish?
Cashew cream, silken tofu blended with lemon juice, or store-bought vegan sour cream alternatives all make delicious toppings for this soup.
A Nourishing and Delicious Meal
This easy vegan cabbage soup recipe is a testament to how simple ingredients, when combined with care, can create a truly comforting and flavorful meal. Enjoy the warmth of this classic soup any night of the week!
