Garlicky Cabbage Soup
Garlicky Cabbage Soup offers a warm, hearty bowl filled with nourishing ingredients that not only satisfy your hunger but also embrace a comforting flavor palette. This vegetarian soup features the classic combination of sautéed onions and garlic paired with tender cabbage and creamy cannellini beans. With every spoonful, you’ll feel the essence of home cooking, as its rustic flavors tell a story of simplicity and comfort.
Table of Contents
I first discovered the joys of Garlicky Cabbage Soup during a cold winter evening, craving something both warming and nutritious. It quickly became an essential recipe in my repertoire, bringing family together around the table. It’s affordable, flavorful, and incredibly easy to whip up—what’s not to love? This comforting dish is perfect for those busy weeknights or just when you need that extra bit of cozy in your life. I warmly encourage you to try it; you won’t be disappointed!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Ready in just about 50 minutes, this soup is perfect for a weeknight meal.
- Irresistible Flavor: The combination of garlic and onion gives a fragrant base, while the cabbage adds depth.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant green of the cabbage and the creamy white beans create a beautiful bowl.
- Flexible Serving: Enjoy it as a light lunch or dinner, and it’s perfect for meal prep too.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adapted to be vegan or gluten-free!
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil: A rich base for sautéing that enhances the soup’s flavors. You can use any neutral oil if preferred.
- 1 medium onion finely chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the broth. Yellow onions work best.
- 4-5 cloves garlic thinly sliced: The star ingredient! Garlic adds a fragrant note and brings the soup to life.
- 1 medium head green cabbage chopped: This veggie is earthy and filling, giving the soup its hearty body.
- 1 can cannellini beans rinsed (15 oz.): Adds creaminess and protein, making the dish more substantial.
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth: Homemade broth enhances the flavor; if using store-bought, select low-sodium versions to control salt levels.
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese: This adds a savory richness. A vegetarian option of Parm can be found if preferred.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the dish and balances flavors. Lime can be used for a different twist.
- 1 large egg (optional): Introduces a silky texture. For a vegan alternative, opt for silken tofu instead.
- Ground pepper to taste: Adds warmth and spice; fresh cracked pepper is best for flavor.
- Salt to taste: Adjust based on your broth’s saltiness for the best overall flavor.
How to Make Garlicky Cabbage Soup
Heat the Olive Oil: Start by heating 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Wait until the oil shimmers, indicating it’s hot enough to add the next ingredients.
Sauté the Onion: Add 1 finely chopped medium onion and sauté it for about 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes translucent and fragrant. This sets the flavor foundation of the soup.
Add Garlic: Stir in 4-5 cloves of thinly sliced garlic and cook for an additional minute until it becomes aromatic. Take care not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
Incorporate the Cabbage: Toss in 1 medium head of chopped green cabbage into the pot. Stir occasionally and cook for about 5-6 minutes until the cabbage begins to wilt and soften.
Pour in Broth and Beans: Next, pour in 4 cups of low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth and add 1 can of rinsed cannellini beans. Bring it to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes. During this time, the flavors meld beautifully.
Whisk the Cheese Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, the juice of 1 tablespoon of lemon, and 1 large egg along with some ground pepper and salt. This mixture will add richness to the soup.
Combine Egg Mixture: Remove the soup from heat, and while stirring constantly, gradually drizzle the egg mixture into the pot. This technique helps to avoid scrambling the egg, resulting in a creamy texture.
Thicken the Soup: Return the pot to low heat and gently stir for an additional 2-3 minutes. Watch as the soup thickens slightly, becoming a delightful comfort meal.
Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into warm bowls and top with extra grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Pair with crusty bread for a complete meal!
Storing & Reheating
To store your Garlicky Cabbage Soup, let it cool down to room temperature before transferring it into an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. If you want to freeze it, simply portion the soup into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion, and store for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat on the stove over medium heat for 5-10 minutes or in the microwave until warmed through. Keep in mind the texture may slightly change, but you can revive it with a splash of extra broth or water.
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Avoid cooking garlic at too high a heat to prevent bitterness; gentle sautéing is key.
- Start with room temperature eggs to ensure better incorporation into the soup.
- Timing is essential. Make sure to stir well when combining the egg mixture to avoid any clumps.
- Feel free to add in other vegetables you love, such as carrots or bell peppers, for an extra nutrient boost.
- This soup is a great make-ahead option and can taste even better the next day as the flavors develop further.
Garlicky Cabbage Soup combines all the best aspects of comfort food while being incredibly easy to prepare. Embrace the versatility of this hearty soup, and feel free to experiment with various ingredients or spices that resonate with you. It’s not just a tasty dish; it’s a nurturing experience that’ll warm your heart and soul. I invite you to savor every spoonful!
Recipe FAQs
Can I make this soup vegan?
Absolutely! You can simply omit the egg and cheese or replace them with silken tofu for creaminess and nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
What can I serve with Garlicky Cabbage Soup?
This soup pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad. For a more filling meal, try serving it over cooked grains like quinoa or rice.
How can I adjust the thickness of the soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can allow it to simmer longer or add a little cornstarch mixed with water. If it’s too thick, just stir in more broth until you reach your desired consistency.
Can I use frozen cabbage for this recipe?
Yes, frozen cabbage can be used, but make sure to thaw and drain any excess water before adding it to the pot. The texture may differ slightly, but it will still be delicious!
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📖 Recipe Card
Garlicky Cabbage Soup
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Soups
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Healthy Comfort Food
Description
This Garlicky Cabbage Soup is a delightful blend of fresh ingredients and bold flavors, perfect for a comforting meal. With its simple prep and nutritious goodness from cabbage and beans, it makes an ideal quick dinner option for anyone seeking easy, homemade recipes.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4–5 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
- 1 medium head green cabbage, chopped
- 1 can cannellini beans, rinsed
- 4 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
- 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice or lime juice
- 1 large egg, optional
- ground pepper, to taste
- salt, to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 4-5 minutes.
- Stir in sliced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Incorporate chopped green cabbage and stir occasionally for about 5-6 minutes.
- Pour in broth and add rinsed cannellini beans. Bring to a gentle boil, then simmer uncovered for 10 minutes.
- Whisk together grated Parmesan, lemon juice, egg, ground pepper, and salt in a separate bowl.
- Remove soup from heat and gradually drizzle in the egg mixture while stirring constantly.
- Return pot to low heat and gently stir for another 2-3 minutes until soup thickens slightly.
- Serve hot and garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Notes
For a vegetarian option, omit the egg and use silken tofu as a substitute.
Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or celery for extra flavor and nutrition.
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 260
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 580mg
- Fat: 9g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 6g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 8g
- Protein: 12g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
