Years ago, when I was a young girl, my grandmother would prepare a pot of her famous cabbage soup every winter. The comforting aroma would fill our home, beckoning neighbors to knock on our door, asking if they too could have a bowl. It was not only a testament to its deliciousness but also to its healing properties. Every time someone in the family caught a cold or felt under the weather, a pot of this soup was on the stove. Now, years later, I find myself reaching for this recipe when I need a touch of warmth and healing.
My neighbor, Mrs. Parker, once mentioned how this soup miraculously helped her recover from a bad flu. She claimed that there was something magical about the blend of cabbage and the rich broth. While I can’t vouch for its magical properties, I can indeed say it’s the epitome of comfort in a bowl.
How to Prepare Healing Cabbage Soup
Ingredients for Healing Cabbage Soup
- 3 tablespoons of quality olive oil
- 1/2 a medium onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves of fresh garlic, minced
- About 2 quarts of water
- 4 teaspoons of chicken bouillon granules
- Salt, as per your preference
- Freshly ground black pepper, to your liking
- 1/2 of a fresh cabbage, cleaned and roughly chopped
- 1 can (14 1/2 ounce) of Italian-style stewed tomatoes, drained and cut into pieces
Directions for Healing Cabbage Soup
- In a spacious pot, warm the olive oil over medium flame. Introduce the onion and garlic into the pot and sauté until the onions are translucent, which takes approximately 5 minutes.
- Gradually add in the water, chicken bouillon, a pinch of salt, and some black pepper. Once boiling, mix in the chopped cabbage and let it simmer until the cabbage softens, which is about 10 minutes.
- Introduce the diced tomatoes to the mixture. Bring it to a boil again, then reduce to a simmer for another 15 to 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve piping hot, preferably with some crusty bread on the side, and relish every spoonful!
What variations can I try with this cabbage soup recipe?
You can introduce other veggies like carrots, mushrooms, or celery. Leftover cooked chicken or Italian sausage can also be added for a richer flavor. Spice enthusiasts can add cayenne pepper, turmeric, or Italian seasoning for an extra kick.
How long can I store this soup in the refrigerator?
The Healing Cabbage Soup can be stored in an airtight container and kept in the fridge for up to five days. Always ensure you reheat it well before consuming.
Can this soup be frozen?
Absolutely! Once cooled, pour the soup into freezer bags or containers. Make sure to remove excess air, label with the date, and freeze. It should be good for up to three months. Remember to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating and serving.
Is this soup suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, by simply substituting the chicken bouillon granules with a vegetable-based one, this soup can easily be made vegetarian-friendly.
How can I make this soup more hearty?
For a thicker version, consider adding chickpeas, potatoes, or even rice. If you have leftover chicken, toss that in too. The beauty of this soup is its adaptability!
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Of course! Just add all the ingredients into your slow cooker and set it on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Ensure the cabbage is tender before serving.
Healing Cabbage Soup
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic chopped
- 2 quarts water
- 4 teaspoons chicken bouillon granules
- 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper or to taste
- 1/2 head cabbage cored and coarsely chopped
- 1 14 1/2 ounce can Italian-style stewed tomatoes, drained and diced
Instructions
- In a large stockpot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Stir in onion and garlic; cook until onion is transparent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in water, bouillon, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then stir in cabbage. Simmer until cabbage wilts, about 10 minutes.
- Stir in tomatoes. Return to a boil, then simmer 15 to 30 minutes, stirring often.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
