
Ingredients
1 medium to large green cabbage, chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
1 large onion, diced
3 carrots, sliced
3 celery stalks, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
2 potatoes, diced (optional but filling)
1 can diced tomatoes (400 g / 14 oz)
1 tablespoon tomato paste
8–10 cups water or vegetable/chicken broth
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon paprika
½ teaspoon dried thyme
½ teaspoon dried oregano
1 bay leaf
Optional add-ins:
- 1 cup cooked beans or chickpeas
- 1 cup shredded chicken or ground beef
- Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft.
- Add carrots and celery, cook for another 3 minutes.
- Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add tomato paste and mix well.
- Add cabbage, potatoes, and diced tomatoes. Stir to combine.
- Pour in water or broth. Bring to a boil.
- Add salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, oregano, and bay leaf.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 30–40 minutes until vegetables are tender.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. Remove bay leaf before serving.
Tips
- For richer flavor, simmer longer (up to 1 hour).
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice or a splash of vinegar at the end for brightness.
- This soup tastes even better the next day.
Why You’ll Love This Soup
- Budget-friendly
- Filling but light
- Perfect for meal prep
- Comforting and nourishing
- Easy to customize