This creamy cabbage soup is a warm hug in a bowl. With tender cabbage, potatoes, and a touch of cream, it’s super comforting and perfect for chilly days!
You know, this soup is so easy to make that even I can’t mess it up! I love pairing it with some crunchy bread. It’s like a cozy dinner that just makes you smile. 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: Green cabbage is the star of this soup for its mild flavor and tender texture. If you want a bit more crunch, you can also use savoy cabbage. In a pinch, coleslaw mix works too!
Vegetables: Carrots and potatoes add sweetness and body. You can swap in parsnips, sweet potatoes, or even add some celery for extra flavor if you’d like!
Broth: I recommend vegetable broth for a vegetarian option. Chicken broth can also work well. Try low-sodium varieties if you’re watching your salt intake.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, use half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free twist. You can also opt for cashew cream for a nut-based alternative.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from the Cabbage?
Getting the best flavor from the cabbage comes down to cooking it correctly. After adding the cabbage, allow it to simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes. This helps it break down and blend its sweetness into the soup.
- Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Taste a cabbage piece: it should be tender but not mushy! Adjust your simmer time based on your preference.
Cooking the soup gently without boiling it after adding the cream helps maintain a smooth texture. Just heat until warm, then you’re ready to enjoy! Don’t forget to pair with your favorite crusty bread for a complete meal!
How to Make Creamy Cabbage Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, shredded (about 6 cups)
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh dill or parsley for garnish (optional)
- Crusty bread for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious creamy cabbage soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook. In just under an hour, you’ll have a warm, comforting soup ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat until melted and shimmering. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 4-5 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until it’s fragrant. This will add a wonderful aroma to your soup!
2. Add the Vegetables:
Next, add the diced carrots and potatoes to the pot, stirring well to combine. Let those cook together for a minute or two to get them nice and friendly with the onion and garlic.
3. Pour in the Broth:
Now, pour in the broth and season with salt, pepper, and dried thyme. Bring this mixture to a boil to get everything bubbling nicely.
4. Simmer:
Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cook for about 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes and carrots are tender. You can test this by poking them with a fork!
5. Add the Cabbage:
It’s time to stir in the shredded cabbage. Give it a good mix and cook uncovered for another 10 minutes. This will help the cabbage soften and become part of the soup. You’ll love the beautiful transformation it makes!
6. Finish with Cream:
Lower the heat a little more and stir in the heavy cream. Heat everything just until warm, but be careful not to let it boil at this point. You want that creamy goodness to shine through!
7. Season and Serve:
Taste your delicious soup and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh dill or parsley if you’re feeling fancy, and serve warm alongside slices of crusty bread. Enjoy every spoonful of your creamy cabbage soup!
This soup is not just a meal — it’s a delightful experience of warmth and flavor. Enjoy your cooking!
Can I Use Different Types of Cabbage?
Absolutely! While green cabbage is the classic choice, you can also use savoy or napa cabbage for a slightly different texture and flavor. Just keep in mind that cook times may vary slightly based on the cabbage type used.
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian or Vegan?
To keep this soup vegetarian, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a vegan version, replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a cashew cream. You can make cashew cream by soaking cashews in water and blending them until smooth!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen it up if it becomes too thick.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the creamy cabbage soup! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It should keep well for about 2-3 months. Just thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat slowly on the stove, adding more cream or broth as desired.
