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Rustic Cabbage Soup: Simmered for Deep Flavor

Savory and subtly sweet, this vegetable-packed soup offers a comforting warmth.

Janelle

By Janelle

Updated: January 18, 2026

Why I Love This Recipe

Cabbage soup is a cornerstone of many cuisines, a humble dish elevated by simple ingredients and careful simmering. This version leans into the natural sweetness of cabbage, enhanced by the savory depth of aromatics and a touch of thyme. It’s a celebration of humble vegetables, transformed into a deeply satisfying meal. It's the perfect way to warm up on a chilly evening, packed with nutrients and comforting flavors.

  • •Earthy Sweetness - The cabbage softens and sweetens as it simmers, creating a delicate flavor profile that's both comforting and subtly complex.
  • •Aromatic Foundation - The combination of onion, carrots, celery, and garlic creates a flavorful base that complements the cabbage perfectly.
  • •Vegetable Powerhouse - Packed with vitamins and fiber, this soup is a healthy and filling meal option.
  • •Simple Elegance - Despite its humble ingredients, the slow simmering process yields a deeply flavorful and satisfying broth.
  • •Versatile Base - Easily adaptable to your preferences, you can add other vegetables or spices to customize the flavor profile.

Ingredients You'll Need

Here's what you'll need – nothing too fancy, just good ingredients that work together beautifully.

  • 2 tablespoons Olive oil
  • 1 Yellow onion (diced)
  • 2 Carrots (diced)
  • 2 Celery stalks (diced)
  • 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
  • 1 medium head Green cabbage (shredded)
  • 1 28 ounce can Diced tomatoes (undrained)
  • 8 cups Vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon Dried thyme
  • 1 Dried bay leaf
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black pepper

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. 1

    Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. The oil should shimmer slightly, indicating it's hot enough to begin cooking the vegetables.

    ~2 min

  2. 2

    Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté until the onion is translucent and the vegetables begin to soften, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.

    ~7 min

  3. 3

    Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter. The aroma should be pungent and inviting.

    ~1 min

  4. 4

    Stir in the shredded cabbage and cook until it begins to wilt, about 3-5 minutes. The cabbage will reduce in volume as it cooks, and its color will become more vibrant.

    ~5 min

  5. 5

    Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and the vegetable broth. The broth should cover the vegetables completely. If not, add a little more water or broth.

    ~1 min

  6. 6

    Add the dried thyme and bay leaf. These herbs will infuse the soup with a subtle, earthy flavor as it simmers. Stir well to combine all ingredients.

    ~1 min

  7. 7

    Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or up to an hour. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together.

    ~30 min

  8. 8

    Season with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a small amount and adjust as needed. Remember that flavors will intensify as the soup simmers.

    ~1 min

  9. 9

    Remove the bay leaf before serving. The bay leaf has imparted its flavor and is no longer needed. It can be quite bitter if accidentally eaten.

    ~1 min

  10. 10

    Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. Garnish with a swirl of olive oil or a sprinkle of fresh herbs, if desired. Enjoy the comforting warmth and savory flavors.

    ~5 min

How Do I Know It's Ready?

The cabbage should be very tender and the flavors should be well-melded. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Rustic Cabbage Soup: Simmered for Deep Flavor as much as I do! It's a wonderful dish that's sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. If you try this recipe, I'd love to hear how it turned out – feel free to share your experience and any variations you tried!