This creamy cabbage soup is warm, comforting, and simple to make. Packed with fresh cabbage and creamy goodness, it’s perfect for a cozy night in!
I love how this soup warms me from the inside out. Plus, it makes me feel healthy while satisfying my cravings. Can’t resist a second bowl, can you? 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: A small head of green cabbage works best here. It’s tender and has a mild flavor, perfect for soups. If cabbage isn’t available, try using kale or collard greens for a twist.
Carrots: Fresh carrots add sweetness and color. You can substitute with parsnips for a different flavor. Frozen carrots are also a good option in a pinch!
Potatoes: I prefer using Yukon Gold potatoes for their creamy texture. If you’re looking for a lower-carb option, cauliflower can substitute well.
Onion & Garlic: These aromatics build base flavor. If you’re sensitive to onions, shallots or leeks can work nicely, but I wouldn’t skip the garlic—it’s key for taste.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, use milk or a plant-based cream. Coconut cream is an excellent alternative that adds a hint of sweetness.
How Do You Get the Best Flavor from the Ingredients?
Start by sautéing the onion in butter or olive oil. This step is essential to developing flavor. Don’t rush it! Take about 3-5 minutes to soften the onions before adding garlic. Then, cook until it’s fragrant, about 1 minute.
- Add the vegetables and let them sauté for a few minutes to enhance their flavors, allowing their natural sweetness to emerge.
- When adding broth, scrape the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. These bits add depth to your soup.
- Blending the soup makes it creamy, but leave some chunks for that lovely texture—don’t over-blend!
Finishing with fresh herbs like dill or parsley enhances the aroma and freshness, giving your soup a wonderful bright flavor. Enjoy it paired with crusty bread for a comforting meal!
How to Make Creamy Cabbage Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 medium potatoes, diced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or milk
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh dill or parsley, chopped
- Optional: sour cream or Greek yogurt (for serving)
- Bread slices, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy cabbage soup will take you about 10 minutes to prepare and around 30 minutes to cook. In total, expect about 40 minutes before you can enjoy a warm bowl of deliciousness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, melt the butter or heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté it until it’s nice and soft, about 3-5 minutes. This will build a flavorful base for your soup!
2. Add Garlic:
Once the onions are translucent, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute. You want to smell that wonderful garlic aroma filling your kitchen!
3. Combine the Vegetables:
Now, it’s time to add the chopped cabbage, sliced carrots, and diced potatoes to the pot. Stir everything well, and let the vegetables cook for about 5 minutes to start softening them up.
4. Add the Broth:
Next, pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. Turn the heat up to bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to let it simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 20-25 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
5. Blend for Creaminess:
Using an immersion blender, carefully blend the soup a few times to create a creamy texture while still keeping some chunks. If you don’t have an immersion blender, you can blend half of the soup in a regular blender and then return it to the pot.
6. Stir in Cream:
Add the heavy cream or milk to the soup and heat it through without boiling. Be sure to taste it and season with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Serve and Garnish:
Now it’s time to ladle the soup into bowls! Garnish each bowl with some fresh chopped dill or parsley for a lovely final touch.
8. Enjoy:
Serve the creamy cabbage soup with slices of bread on the side for a comforting meal. Feel free to add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top for an extra touch of creaminess!
Enjoy your warm and comforting creamy cabbage soup! Perfect for any chilly day!
Can I Use Different Types of Cabbage?
Absolutely! While green cabbage is the best choice for this soup due to its mild flavor, you can also use Napa cabbage or savoy cabbage if you prefer a slightly different texture or taste.
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftover creamy cabbage soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of water or broth if it’s too thick.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes! This soup freezes well. Just let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Can I Make This Soup Vegan?
Yes! To make this creamy cabbage soup vegan, use olive oil instead of butter, vegetable broth, and replace heavy cream with coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. It will be just as delicious!
