We love diving into a steaming bowl of Cabbage Patch Soup on crisp evenings—it’s the ultimate comfort food packed with crunchy cabbage and wholesome veggies. This hearty dish draws from timeless home cooking traditions offering a simple yet nutritious meal that keeps us coming back for more.
We’re excited to share our take on this easy recipe that’s not only budget-friendly but also brimming with flavor and health benefits to brighten your table.
Ingredients
In our Cabbage Patch Soup recipe, we select fresh, wholesome ingredients that deliver comforting flavors and nutrition, building on the hearty vegetables like cabbage we highlighted earlier. To keep things simple and budget-friendly, we’ve ordered the ingredients below as they are typically used in the preparation process, with specific prep notes for accuracy.
Key Ingredients List
- 1 medium head of cabbage (about 2 pounds, roughly chopped into bite-sized pieces – this forms the base for a crunchy texture and adds essential vitamins)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing; use extra-virgin for a richer flavor)
- 1 large onion (diced finely, about 1 cup – we start with this to build a savory foundation)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced, for aromatic depth that enhances the soup’s heartiness)
- 2 medium carrots (sliced into 1/4-inch rounds, approximately 1 cup – added next for natural sweetness and color)
- 2 stalks celery (chopped into 1/2-inch pieces, about 1 cup – provides a crisp contrast and supports the vegetable medley)
- 4 cups vegetable broth (low-sodium preferred; we use this to simmer and infuse flavors throughout)
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes (undrained, for a tangy acidity that balances the soup)
- 2 medium potatoes (cubed into 1-inch pieces, about 2 cups – introduced to thicken the broth naturally)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (for earthy notes; adjust to taste for seasoning)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste, considering the broth’s sodium content)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (freshly ground, to add a subtle kick)
- 2 cups water (as needed, to adjust consistency during cooking)
- Optional: 1 cup cooked ground beef or turkey (browned separately, if you want a protein boost for a heartier version)
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients for Cabbage Patch Soup, we guide you through the simple steps to transform them into a warm, flavorful meal. Let’s create a nourishing soup packed with the crunch of cabbage and aromatic herbs.
Prep the Ingredients
Before we start cooking, prepare the ingredients to ensure smooth assembly and enhance the soup’s vibrant flavors. Begin by washing and chopping 1 medium head of cabbage into bite-sized pieces to release its crisp texture. Next, dice 1 large onion and mince 3 garlic cloves for a fragrant base. Slice 2 carrots and 2 celery stalks into thin rounds to add subtle sweetness and crunch.
- Peel and cube 2 medium potatoes into 1-inch pieces for even cooking.
- Measure out 4 cups of vegetable broth and open 1 can (14.5 ounces) of diced tomatoes, draining excess liquid if desired.
- If including the optional protein, have 1 pound of cooked ground beef or turkey ready and crumbled.
- Gather 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, along with salt and pepper to taste, to season our hearty mix.
This preparation sets the stage for a soup that balances tender vegetables with bold, earthy notes.
Cook the Soup
With ingredients prepped, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat to build a savory foundation. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing for 3-4 minutes until they turn golden and release an irresistible, aromatic scent that fills the kitchen.
- Stir in the sliced carrots and celery, cooking for another 5 minutes until they soften slightly and develop a sweet, caramelized edge.
- Incorporate the chopped cabbage and cubed potatoes, stirring well to coat them in the flavorful oil mixture for about 2 minutes to wilt the cabbage and enhance its fresh, crisp bite.
- Pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth and the 14.5-ounce can of diced tomatoes, then add 1 teaspoon of thyme, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of pepper. If using, mix in the 1 pound of cooked ground beef or turkey for a heartier version.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld into a rich, comforting broth where the cabbage softens yet retains a satisfying texture.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, noting how the herbs and vegetables create a hearty, nutritious blend that warms from the first spoonful.
Serve the Soup
Once cooked, ladle the Cabbage Patch Soup into bowls while it’s still steaming hot, capturing its inviting aroma and vibrant colors. Top each serving with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dash of black pepper for added zest, and pair it with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth.
- Serve immediately to enjoy the soup’s tender vegetables and rich flavors at their peak.
- For 4-6 servings, divide evenly to make it a wholesome meal that keeps everyone coming back for more.
Tools and Equipment
To prepare our Cabbage Patch Soup efficiently and safely, we rely on a few essential tools that streamline the prepping, cooking, and serving process. These items build directly on the step-by-step instructions we’ve outlined, ensuring everything from chopping vegetables to simmering the soup goes smoothly.
We categorize the tools by their primary function for clarity:
- Large Soup Pot or Dutch Oven: A 6- to 8-quart pot is ideal for holding all the ingredients without overflow. We use this for sautéing onions and garlic, then simmering the cabbage and vegetables to achieve that rich, comforting flavor.
- Cutting Board and Chef’s Knife: A sturdy cutting board paired with a sharp chef’s knife makes quick work of chopping the cabbage, dicing onions, mincing garlic, slicing carrots, and cubing potatoes. This setup ensures precise cuts that help the soup cook evenly.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accurate measurements are key to our recipe’s balance of flavors. We recommend a set of measuring cups for liquids like vegetable broth and a set of measuring spoons for seasonings such as salt, pepper, and thyme.
- Wooden Spoon or Silicone Spatula: For stirring the ingredients during sautéing and simmering, a heat-resistant wooden spoon prevents scratching the pot while blending flavors effectively.
- Colander or Vegetable Strainer: This tool is crucial for washing and draining fresh produce like cabbage, carrots, and celery before adding them to the pot, ensuring our soup remains crisp and clean.
By using these tools for Cabbage Patch Soup, we enhance efficiency and minimize cleanup, making the entire cooking experience enjoyable and hassle-free.
Make-Ahead and Storage Tips
As we wrap up our discussion on the essential tools for preparing our hearty Cabbage Patch Soup, let’s dive into practical strategies for making it ahead and storing it properly. This ensures you can enjoy its fresh, comforting flavors—think tender cabbage mingling with savory vegetables and aromatic herbs—whenever you need a quick, nutritious meal.
Making Ahead
We recommend preparing our Cabbage Patch Soup in advance to save time on busy days. Start by prepping the ingredients the night before: wash and chop the cabbage, dice the onions and garlic, slice the carrots and celery, and cube the potatoes. Store these prepped veggies in airtight containers in the refrigerator to keep them crisp and ready.
For fully making ahead, cook the entire soup as outlined in our step-by-step instructions, then let it cool completely at room temperature for about 30 minutes. This method preserves the soup’s vibrant flavors and textures, allowing the earthy notes of thyme and the sweetness of carrots to shine through even after storage. Once cooled, portion the soup into meal-sized containers for easy reheating later.
Storage Guidelines
Proper storage is key to maintaining the soup’s wholesome goodness and preventing waste. We suggest the following based on standard food safety practices:
- Refrigeration: Store cooled soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This keeps the flavors fresh and the vegetables tender.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the soup in freezer-safe bags or containers to lock in its comforting aroma and taste.
To help you track storage durations accurately, we’ve compiled the guidelines below in a table:
| Storage Method | Duration | Key Tips |
|---|---|---|
| Refrigerator | 3-4 days | Use within this window for optimal freshness; look for signs of spoilage like off odors or sliminess. |
| Freezer | Up to 3 months | Label containers with the date; thaw in the refrigerator overnight to retain the soup’s hearty texture and flavor. |
Reheating Instructions
When you’re ready to enjoy our Cabbage Patch Soup, reheat it gently to preserve its rich, savory essence. On the stovetop, warm the soup over medium heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until it reaches a simmer—this takes about 5-10 minutes depending on the portion size. In the microwave, heat in a microwave-safe bowl for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. Always ensure the soup reaches an internal temperature of 165°F for safety, and add a splash of broth if it thickens, enhancing its comforting, vegetable-forward taste.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this Cabbage Patch Soup recipe with you as it’s a simple way to bring warmth and nutrition to your table. It’s one of those dishes that nourishes both body and soul without much fuss.
As we wrap up, we’re confident you’ll enjoy tweaking it to suit your tastes or making it a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try and let us know how it turns out—it’s sure to become a favorite in no time.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Cabbage Patch Soup?
Cabbage Patch Soup is a comforting, nutritious dish made with wholesome ingredients like cabbage, vegetables, and herbs. It’s rooted in traditional home cooking, offering a budget-friendly, flavorful option for chilly evenings. This hearty soup promotes health and can be customized with meat for added protein.
What ingredients are needed for Cabbage Patch Soup?
The main ingredients include a medium head of cabbage, olive oil, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, vegetable broth, diced tomatoes, potatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper. For a heartier version, add cooked ground beef or turkey. These are simple, affordable items that make the soup both tasty and nutritious.
How do you prepare Cabbage Patch Soup?
Start by prepping ingredients: chop cabbage and veggies. Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil, then add carrots, celery, and other vegetables. Pour in broth, tomatoes, and seasonings, then simmer until tender. Add optional meat if desired. Serve hot, garnished with parsley, and pair with bread. Serves 4-6 people.
What tools and equipment are required for making Cabbage Patch Soup?
You’ll need a large soup pot or Dutch oven for cooking, a cutting board and chef’s knife for prep, measuring cups and spoons for accuracy, a wooden spoon or silicone spatula for stirring, and a colander for washing produce. These basics ensure efficient and safe preparation.
Can I make Cabbage Patch Soup ahead of time?
Yes, prep ingredients the night before and store in airtight containers. You can also cook the soup fully ahead, cool it, and portion into containers. This makes it convenient for busy days while keeping flavors intact.
How should I store Cabbage Patch Soup?
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave until hot, stirring occasionally to maintain the soup’s rich, savory taste.