Cooking Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
Servings:
- Serves 6-8
This Nutritious Vegan Cabbage Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a warming meal. Packed with fresh vegetables, beans, and aromatic spices, this soup is both nutritious and satisfying. Let’s dive into the recipe and create this delightful dish!
Ingredients:
For the Soup:
- 2 tablespoons of olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 2 large carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, diced
- 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 can (15 ounces) of diced tomatoes
- 6 cups of vegetable broth
- 1 can (15 ounces) of cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- 2 teaspoons of ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Lemon wedges
For Serving:
- Crusty bread or whole grain rolls
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat the Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Sauté the Onion: Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add Garlic and Vegetables: Stir in the minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Cook for another 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
Step 2: Add the Peppers and Cabbage
- Add Bell Peppers: Stir in the diced red and green bell peppers. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
- Add Cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage to the pot and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to wilt.
Step 3: Add the Liquids and Beans
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
- Add Beans and Spices: Stir in the drained cannellini beans, ground cumin, smoked paprika, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
- Bring to a Boil: Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve the Soup
- Plate the Soup: Divide the soup among serving bowls.
- Garnish: Garnish each serving with chopped fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice.
- Serve: Serve hot with crusty bread or whole grain rolls.
- Enjoy: Enjoy this nutritious and hearty cabbage soup!
Tips and Variations:
- Extra Protein: Add some cooked lentils or chickpeas for added protein.
- Different Vegetables: Substitute or add other vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or potatoes for variety.
- Spicy Kick: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for more heat.
- Herb Variations: Experiment with different herbs such as oregano or basil for a unique flavor.
Nutritional Information:
This vegan cabbage soup is rich in vitamins and minerals from the fresh vegetables. The beans add protein and fiber, making this soup both nutritious and satisfying.
Storage and Reheating:
- Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat in a pot over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water if needed to adjust the consistency.
Serving Suggestions:
- With Bread: Serve with a side of crusty bread or whole grain rolls for a complete meal.
- With Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for a light and balanced meal.
- As a Starter: Enjoy as a starter before a main course for a warming and nutritious beginning.
This Nutritious Vegan Cabbage Soup is a wonderful way to enjoy a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The combination of fresh vegetables, beans, and aromatic spices creates a dish that is both flavorful and nutritious. Enjoy this delightful soup with family and friends. Happy cooking!
