Easy Red Cabbage Soup Recipe 2024: Healthy And Hearty

Name: Red Cabbage Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 1 small red cabbage (shredded (about 1 lb/450g)); 1 medium onion (chopped); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 2 medium potatoes (peeled and diced); 1 large apple (peeled, cored, and chopped); 1 tablespoon olive oil; 6 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice; 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional); Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional); Sour cream or yogurt for serving (optional)

Red Cabbage Soup is a culinary gem that brings together vibrant color, rich flavor, and wholesome nutrition in one bowl. Known for its striking deep purple hue, this soup is a staple in many Eastern European kitchens and is cherished for its warming, comforting qualities. Made from simple ingredients like red cabbage, onions, and apples, the soup balances sweet and tangy notes, offering a delightful taste experience. Whether you’re looking to explore traditional recipes or add a nutritious twist to your meal, this dish promises to satisfy both the eyes and the palate.

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Why will you love this recipe?

There are plenty of reasons to fall in love with this Red Cabbage Soup recipe. Not only is it visually stunning with its vibrant purple color, but it’s also packed with flavors that are both comforting and refreshing. Here’s why you’ll love this soup:

Nutrient-Rich: Red cabbage is loaded with vitamins C and K, as well as antioxidants, making this soup both delicious and nutritious.
Easy to Prepare: With simple, easily accessible ingredients, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
Versatile: The soup can be enjoyed on its own, as a starter, or paired with a variety of side dishes to make a complete meal.
Perfect for Any Season: Whether served warm in winter or chilled in summer, this soup adapts to the seasons, providing a delightful dish year-round.

Key Notes

Serving	Calories	Prep. Time	Cooking Time	Total Time
4	130 kcal	10 Mins	35 Mins	45 Mins

Kitchen Utensils Needed

Large Pot
Cutting Board & Chef’s Knife
Wooden Spoon or Spatula
Ladle

Red Cabbage Soup Ingredients

1 small red cabbage, shredded (about 1 lb/450g)	Check Price
1 medium onion, chopped	Check Price
2 cloves garlic, minced	Check Price
2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced	Check Price
1 large apple, peeled, cored, and chopped	Check Price
1 tablespoon olive oil	Check Price
6 cups vegetable broth	Check Price
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice	Check Price
1 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)	Check Price
Salt and pepper to taste	Check Price
Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)	Check Price
Sour cream or yogurt for serving (optional)	Check Price

Making Red Cabbage Soup Recipe

Prepare the Ingredients:

Shred the red cabbage, chop the onion, mince the garlic, dice the potatoes, and chop the apple.

Sauté the Vegetables:

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.

Add the Cabbage and Potatoes:

Add the shredded cabbage, diced potatoes, and chopped apple to the pot. Stir well to combine, and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the cabbage to soften slightly.

Add the Broth and Seasoning:

Pour in the vegetable broth, and add the caraway seeds if using. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.

Blend the Soup (Optional):

For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can skip this step.

Finish the Soup:

Stir in the apple cider vinegar or lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve:

Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with fresh parsley or dill. Add a dollop of sour cream or yogurt on top if desired. Serve the soup hot, accompanied by a slice of crusty bread.

Secret Tips For Better Results

To make your Soup truly stand out, there are a few secret tips that can elevate its flavor and texture. These little adjustments can transform a simple soup into something extraordinary, adding depth and richness to every spoonful. Here are some secret tips for making the perfect soup:

Caramelize the Onions: Take your time to caramelize the onions until they’re golden brown. This step adds a deep, sweet flavor that enriches the overall taste of the soup.
Add a Touch of Sweetness: Balance the tangy flavor of the cabbage with a tablespoon of honey or maple syrup. This small addition can round out the flavors and bring a subtle sweetness to the dish.
Use Fresh Herbs: Incorporate fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves during the cooking process. They infuse the soup with a fragrant aroma and add layers of complexity to the flavor.
Roast the Cabbage: For a richer, smokier flavor, try roasting the shredded cabbage in the oven with a drizzle of olive oil before adding it to the soup. This step adds depth and a slight char to the cabbage.
Add a Creamy Element: For a velvety texture, stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream just before serving. This will give the soup a luxurious finish that’s both comforting and satisfying.

Flavor Variations

If you’re looking to put a unique spin on the classic Red Cabbage Soup, there are plenty of flavor variations you can try. These variations allow you to customize the soup to suit your taste preferences. Here are some delicious flavor variations:

Spicy Twist: Add a kick by incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of chili flakes during the sautéing process. You can also stir in a bit of smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for a smoky heat that complements the sweetness of the cabbage.
Eastern European Style: Enhance the traditional flavors by adding a few slices of smoked sausage or kielbasa to the soup. You can also include a splash of red wine vinegar and a spoonful of caraway seeds to give it an authentic Eastern European touch.
Creamy Red Cabbage and Potato Soup: For a richer, creamier version, increase the amount of potatoes and blend the soup until smooth. Finish it with a swirl of heavy cream or coconut milk for a luscious texture and a hint of sweetness.
Apple and Fennel Red Cabbage Soup: Introduce a mild anise flavor by adding thinly sliced fennel along with the cabbage. Pairing it with apples enhances the natural sweetness of the soup, making it a refreshing and aromatic variation.
Asian-Inspired Soup: Infuse the soup with Asian flavors by adding a tablespoon of soy sauce, a splash of rice vinegar, and a drizzle of sesame oil. You can also include some grated ginger and garlic for an added depth of flavor, and garnish with fresh cilantro and green onions.
Mediterranean Flavor: Incorporate Mediterranean ingredients like diced tomatoes, garlic, and a handful of black olives. A sprinkle of crumbled feta cheese and fresh oregano just before serving will add a tangy, savory element to the soup.

Storage Guidelines

Proper storage of your soup will ensure that it stays fresh and delicious for future meals. Whether you’re planning to enjoy leftovers or make the soup in advance, following these guidelines will help maintain its flavor and quality.

Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.
Freezing: Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Thaw frozen soup in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Serving Suggestions

To complement the flavors of Red Cabbage Soup, consider serving it with dishes that add texture and contrast, enhancing the overall meal experience. Here are some serving suggestions that pair well with this soup:

FAQs

Yes, you can substitute green cabbage for red cabbage. The soup will have a slightly different color and flavor, but it will still be delicious.

To make the soup vegetarian or vegan, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit any meat or dairy products. You can add a splash of coconut milk for extra creaminess if desired.

Yes, you can freeze Red Cabbage Soup. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Yes, you can prepare this soup in a slow cooker. Combine all the ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the vegetables are tender.

If the soup is too acidic, you can balance it by adding a small amount of honey or sugar. Conversely, if you want more acidity, add a bit more vinegar or lemon juice.

Conclusion

Red Cabbage Soup is not just a feast for the eyes but also a nourishing and flavorful addition to your meal repertoire. With its vibrant color and harmonious blend of ingredients, this soup offers a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors, making it both comforting and refreshing. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly day or as a light, healthy option year-round, this versatile soup can be customized with various flavor variations and served alongside complementary dishes. By following the simple recipe and storage tips, you’ll be able to savor every spoonful of this delightful dish.

Red Cabbage Soup

Red Cabbage Soup is a vibrant, healthy dish that's popular in various cuisines, particularly in Eastern European and German cooking. The soup is typically made with red cabbage, which gives it a striking purple color. Other common ingredients include onions, garlic, apples, potatoes, and sometimes vinegar or lemon juice for a tangy flavor. It can be served hot, and is often garnished with sour cream or fresh herbs.

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Prep Time 10

Cook Time 35

Total Time 45

Course Soup, Starter

Cuisine American, Eastern European

Servings 4

Calories 130 kcal

Equipment

Large Pot
Cutting Board & Chef’s Knife
Wooden Spoon Or Spatula
Ladle

Ingredients

1 small red cabbage shredded (about 1 lb/450g)
1 medium onion chopped
2 cloves garlic minced
2 medium potatoes peeled and diced
1 large apple peeled, cored, and chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
6 cups vegetable broth
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
1 teaspoon caraway seeds optional
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or dill for garnish optional
Sour cream or yogurt for serving optional

Instructions

Shred the red cabbage, chop the onion, mince the garlic, dice the potatoes, and chop the apple.
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
Add the shredded cabbage, diced potatoes, and chopped apple to the pot. Stir well to combine, and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the cabbage to soften slightly.
Pour in the vegetable broth, and add the caraway seeds if using. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 25-30 minutes, until the vegetables are tender.
For a smoother texture, use an immersion blender to blend the soup directly in the pot. If you prefer a chunkier soup, you can skip this step.
Stir in the apple cider vinegar or lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
adle the soup into bowls, and garnish with fresh parsley or dill. Add a dollop of sour cream or yogurt on top if desired. Serve the soup hot, accompanied by a slice of crusty bread.

Keyword Red Cabbage Soup Recipe