This Cabbage Detox Soup is fresh and light, packed with crunchy veggies and herbs. It’s perfect for a quick reset and brings a burst of color to your plate!
Honestly, it feels like a warm hug in a bowl! I love to make a big pot and enjoy it throughout the week. You can even spice it up with some hot sauce for extra zing!
The best part? Making it is super easy. Just chop, cook, and savor—no fancy skills needed. Trust me, this soup will make you feel great and keep your tummy happy!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Cabbage: This is the star of the soup! Green cabbage is commonly used for its mild flavor. You can swap it with savoy or napa cabbage if you prefer something sweeter or softer.
Broth: I like using vegetable broth for a vegan option, but chicken broth adds a wonderful depth of flavor. If you want something lighter, water works in a pinch, just adjust the seasoning.
Garlic: Fresh garlic gives the best flavor. You can replace it with garlic powder (1/8 teaspoon per clove), but fresh is truly superior.
Spinach or Kale: Both greens add nutrition. I prefer spinach for its mild taste, but kale brings a nice texture. You could also use Swiss chard or collard greens!
Red pepper flakes: If you enjoy spice, they add a great kick! For a milder soup, skip them or try a pinch of smoked paprika for a different flavor profile.
How Do I Sauté Vegetables Perfectly?
Sautéing vegetables at the right temperature is key to developing flavor. Start with medium heat and keep an eye on them. You want to soften without burning.
- Heat the olive oil until it shimmers but doesn’t smoke.
- Add onions and garlic together – they cook at the same rate. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
- Once the onions are translucent, add hardy veggies like carrots and celery.
- After about 5 minutes, add softer veggies like cabbage and zucchini.
This gentle cooking enhances their sweetness and builds the soup’s base flavor. Enjoy!
How to Make Cabbage Detox Soup?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Vegetables:
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 2 large carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 2 tomatoes, diced (or 1 can of diced tomatoes)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Broth and Seasonings:
- 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for heat)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and roughly 30-40 minutes to cook. You’ll have a comforting, healthy meal that’s perfect for any time of the year!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté them together for about 5 minutes or until the onion turns translucent and fragrant. This creates a delicious base for your soup!
2. Add Root Vegetables:
Next, toss in the diced carrots and celery. Cook these for another 5 minutes until they start to soften. Stir occasionally to ensure they cook evenly and don’t stick to the pot.
3. Incorporate the Cabbage and Zucchini:
Now, it’s time to add the chopped cabbage and diced zucchini. Stir everything well and cook for another 5 minutes. You’ll notice the cabbage begins to wilt and combine nicely with the other veggies.
4. Bring in the Rest of the Ingredients:
Add in the diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, dried thyme, dried basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. If you like some heat, sprinkle in the red pepper flakes. Give the mixture a good stir and then bring it to a boil.
5. Let It Simmer:
Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook for about 20-30 minutes. This will soften all the vegetables and blend the flavors beautifully.
6. Finish with Greens:
During the last 5 minutes of cooking, stir in the fresh spinach or kale until just wilted. This adds a lovely color and extra nutrition to your soup!
7. Taste and Serve:
Give your soup a taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. It’s ready to serve hot! If you want, you can top it with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of cheese for extra flavor!
Can I Use Different Vegetables in This Soup?
Absolutely! This soup is very versatile. You can swap in other vegetables like bell peppers, green beans, or mushrooms based on what you have on hand. Just keep the cooking times in mind; denser veggies may take a bit longer to soften.
How Can I Make This Soup Spicier?
If you like more heat, add extra red pepper flakes or consider tossing in some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce while it simmers. Start with a small amount and taste as you go to achieve your desired spice level!
Can I Store Leftover Cabbage Detox Soup?
Yes, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, it freezes well for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing, and thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating.
What Should I Serve with Cabbage Detox Soup?
This soup can be filling on its own, but if you want to serve it with something, consider pairing it with a slice of whole-grain bread or a light salad for a wholesome meal. Enjoy!
