Cabbage Soup

1. Chop the Cabbage:
   • Remove the tough core of the cabbage and roughly chop the leaves into bite-sized pieces.
2. Dice and Slice:
   • Prepare the carrots, celery, onion, and other optional vegetables. Mince the garlic.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Heat Oil:
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Cook the Onion and Garlic:
   • Add the onion and garlic to the pot, sautéing until fragrant and translucent (about 2–3 minutes).
3. Add Carrots and Celery:
   • Stir in the carrots and celery, cooking for another 4–5 minutes until slightly softened.

Step 3: Build the Broth

1. Add the Tomatoes and Tomato Paste:
   • Pour in the diced tomatoes and tomato paste, stirring to combine with the sautéed vegetables.
2. Incorporate the Spices:
   • Add smoked paprika, cumin, thyme, oregano, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Pour in the Broth:
   • Gradually add the vegetable or chicken broth, stirring to ensure everything is well combined.
4. Add the Cabbage:
   • Gently stir in the chopped cabbage, ensuring it is submerged in the broth.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

1. Cook Until Tender:
   • Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the cabbage and other vegetables are tender.
2. Optional Add-Ins:
   • If using beans, cooked rice, or meat, stir them in during the last 10 minutes of cooking to heat through.

Step 5: Adjust and Serve

1. Taste and Season:
   • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or herbs as needed.
2. Garnish:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or dill. Add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Tips for Success

1. Customizable Ingredients:
   • Feel free to add more vegetables like spinach, kale, or potatoes to suit your taste.
2. Make It Spicy:
   • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a kick of heat.
3. Storage:
   • This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
4. Thicker Soup:
   • Blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in for a creamier texture.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cabbage soup is a deliciously satisfying way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. It’s hearty, flavorful, and versatile—whether you’re looking for a light starter or a filling main course. With its blend of spices and vibrant veggies, this soup is bound to become a household favorite.