Delicious Chinese Cabbage Soup Recipe You’ll Crave Again

Last weekend, I whipped up this Chinese cabbage soup and honestly, I barely got a bowl for myself because everyone loved it so much. This soup is a delicious, light, and healthy way to warm up on a chilly day. With tender cabbage, fragrant ginger, and a delicate broth, it’s a recipe that’s both comforting and refreshing.

this Recipe

If you’ve never tried making Chinese cabbage soup, this version is perfect for you. It’s easy, quick, and uses simple ingredients you probably have at home. Plus, it’s very customizable, so you can add your favorite veggies or proteins if you like.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple ingredients that are easy to find in any grocery store.
• Quick to prepare and cook—ready in under 40 minutes.
• Light and nourishing, perfect as a starter or main soup.
• Great for meal prep and easy to reheat without losing flavor.
• Vegetarian-friendly but easy to add protein if desired.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this easy Chinese cabbage soup. The ingredients are fresh and straightforward, focusing on flavor and nutrition.

• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced
• 6 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 medium Chinese cabbage (about 1.5 pounds), chopped into bite-size pieces
• 1 medium carrot, thinly sliced
• 3 green onions, sliced (separate white and green parts)
• 2 tablespoons low-sodium soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional garnish: sesame seeds, chopped cilantro, or sliced chili peppers

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 110 per serving

How to Make I made this Chinese Cabbage Soup last weekend, and I barely got a bowl for myself—it van

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the minced garlic, ginger, and the white parts of the green onions. Sauté for about 2 minutes until fragrant.
2. Pour in the broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-low to maintain a simmer.
3. Add the chopped Chinese cabbage and sliced carrots to the pot. Simmer uncovered for 15 minutes until the vegetables are tender but still have some bite.
4. Stir in the soy sauce and toasted sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting the flavors as you prefer.
5. Just before serving, sprinkle the green parts of the green onions on top and add optional garnishes like sesame seeds or cilantro for extra flavor and color.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use fresh ginger and garlic for the most vibrant flavor.
• Don’t overcook the cabbage—aim for tender-crisp texture to keep it fresh and bright.
• Feel free to add tofu, shredded chicken, or shrimp for added protein.
• Low-sodium broth allows you to control the salt level better.
• For a spicier kick, add a dash of chili oil or sliced fresh chilies.

Storage and Reheating

This Chinese cabbage soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container. When reheating, warm it gently on the stovetop over medium heat to preserve the delicate flavors and avoid overcooking the vegetables.

You can also freeze the soup for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat slowly on the stove. The texture of the cabbage may soften a bit after freezing but the flavor remains delicious.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use regular green cabbage instead of Chinese cabbage?

Yes, regular green cabbage works fine, but it has a firmer texture and stronger flavor, so cooking times may vary slightly. Slice it thinly for best results.

Is this soup vegetarian?

In this recipe, yes, it is vegetarian if you use vegetable broth. You can also use chicken broth for a non-vegetarian version.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! The soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat gently before serving.

What else can I add to this soup?

You can add mushrooms, snap peas, baby corn, or proteins like tofu, chicken, or shrimp. Just adjust cooking times to ensure everything is cooked properly.