This creamy cabbage soup is warm and comforting, filled with soft cabbage and potatoes. It’s super easy to make and perfect for chilly days!
I love how it all comes together in one pot. Plus, who doesn’t enjoy a cozy bowl of soup that’s packed with flavor? It’s like a warm hug in a bowl! 🥣
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: Green cabbage is standard here, but if you want a sweeter flavor, try using Napa or red cabbage. They both add a unique twist!
Carrots: Fresh carrots bring sweetness and color. You could use frozen carrots if that’s what you have on hand, or even sweet potatoes for a slightly different flavor.
Potatoes: I like using Russet potatoes for creaminess, but Yukon Gold works great as well. If you’re looking to cut carbs, cauliflower can be a good alternative!
Broth: Whether vegetable or chicken broth, both add depth. If you’re vegetarian, definitely stick with vegetable broth or make your own from scraps!
Cream: Heavy cream makes it rich, but you can swap in evaporated milk or coconut milk for a lighter or dairy-free option.
How Do I Perfectly Sauté the Onion and Garlic?
Cooking the onion and garlic properly lays a great flavor foundation. Start with medium heat to avoid burning them. Here’s how:
- Heat oil or butter in a large pot until shimmering, then add the chopped onion.
- Sauté until the onion turns translucent, about 3-4 minutes, and add garlic for only the last minute to prevent bitterness.
This method features a fragrant base that makes your soup really tasty!
How Can I Make Sure My Vegetables are Tender Yet Not Mushy?
To keep your veggies tender but not mushy, follow these steps:
- Cut your vegetables into uniform pieces to ensure even cooking.
- Add the harder vegetables like potatoes and carrots earlier, giving them a head start.
- Monitor the simmering time; check them for tenderness with a fork around the 20-minute mark.
This way, you’ll enjoy a well-textured soup with each bite!
How to Make Creamy Cabbage Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 small head of green cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
For the Broth:
- 4 cups vegetable broth or chicken broth
For Creaminess:
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
Seasoning:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for garnish)
Garnish:
- Fresh dill or parsley for garnish
- Bread slices (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy cabbage soup takes around 40 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and then around 30 minutes cooking, making it a quick and satisfying meal perfect for any night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Begin by heating the olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they are softened and fragrant, creating a lovely base for your soup.
2. Add Root Vegetables:
Next, add the diced carrots and potatoes into the pot. Cook these for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. This helps to slightly tenderize them before adding the cabbage.
3. Incorporate the Cabbage:
Now, stir in the chopped cabbage. Cook everything together for another 5 minutes, allowing the cabbage to wilt down and mix with the other veggies.
4. Pour in the Broth:
Pour the vegetable or chicken broth into the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it simmer gently for 20-25 minutes until all the vegetables are nice and tender.
5. Season to Taste:
After the vegetables have cooked, it’s time to add salt and pepper. Taste your soup and adjust the seasonings as needed!
6. Add Creaminess:
Slowly stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half, warming it through without bringing it back to a boil. This will keep the soup creamy and delicious.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish each bowl with fresh dill or parsley for a pop of color and freshness, and sprinkle a little smoked paprika on top if you like. It adds a delightful smokiness!
8. Enjoy with Bread:
Serve the soup hot, possibly with a slice of crusty bread on the side for dipping. Enjoy your warm, hearty bowl of creamy cabbage soup!
This creamy cabbage soup is hearty, velvety, and loaded with fresh veggies. Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Types of Cabbage?
Absolutely! While green cabbage is the traditional choice, Napa cabbage offers a sweeter flavor and a tender texture. Red cabbage can also be used for a vibrant look and slightly different taste.
What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, evaporated milk, or even coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative. Each will give a slightly different flavor, but they will still result in a creamy texture!
How Should I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage, just ensure it’s cooled completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or celery for added flavor and nutrition. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the types of veggies you choose.
