Cabbage Soup

Ingredients & Substitutions

Here I explain the best ingredients for my simple cabbage soup recipe, what each one does, and substitution options. For measurements, see the recipe card.

• Cabbage – Obviously the main ingredient! I used green cabbage, but you can also use red cabbage or Napa cabbage.
• Canned Diced Tomatoes – These add a touch of sweetness and balance to the soup. You can also use fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky flavor.
• Mirepoix – That’s a fancy name for a combination of carrots, onion, and celery. Feel free to toss in other veggies! Hearty ones like bell peppers work best sauteed in the beginning, whereas more delicate ones like zucchini or leafy greens are better added toward the end.
• Aromatics – Minced garlic and grated ginger. If you need a shortcut, you can use a tablespoon of jarred garlic instead, and add a sprinkle of ground ginger with the spices (below).
• Olive Oil – For sauteing the veggies and aromatics. Avocado oil works, too.
• Chicken Broth – This cabbage soup tastes incredible with my homemade chicken broth, but store-bought works just fine. You can also use vegetable broth if you want a plant-based soup.
• Spices – Italian seasoning, sea salt, and black pepper. You can also use individual dried herbs instead, like basil or oregano, or add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for some heat.
• Lemon Juice – Adds a bright, zesty flavor. It’s optional, but I highly recommend it!

How To Make Cabbage Soup

I have step-by-step photos here to help you visualize the recipe. For full instructions with amounts and temperatures, see the recipe card.

1. Saute the aromatics. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium heat. Add the garlic and ginger, and cook until fragrant.
2. Saute the onions, carrots, and celery. They’ll soften first, but let them brown, too.

3. Simmer your soup. Add the cabbage, broth, diced tomatoes, and Italian seasoning. Bring the soup to a boil, then cover and let it simmer until the cabbage is tender and your kitchen smells amazing.
4. Finish. If you’re using lemon juice, stir it in now, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Enjoy your easy cabbage soup! I like to garnish it with fresh parsley or thyme for a pop of color.

More Cabbage Soup Recipes

I love cabbage in soup! It’s a great way to add bulk while keeping things light. Try some of my other recipes with it:

Beef Cabbage Soup

Borscht Soup

Healthy Detox Soup

Pozole Soup