Description
This comforting Crockpot Cabbage Soup is a hearty, flavorful dish perfect for any day of the week. Combining fresh cabbage, garden vegetables, and aromatic herbs, this slow-cooked recipe melds the flavors beautifully for a warming and healthy meal. Easy to prepare with minimal effort, it’s ideal for a nourishing lunch or dinner that serves 6 to 8 people.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids & Canned Goods
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juices
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
Herbs & Spices
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for a little heat)
Others
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for sautéing)
- Fresh parsley or basil (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Chop the cabbage, dice the onion, peel and slice the carrots, and chop the celery. Mince the garlic to get all your fresh ingredients ready for cooking.
- Sauté the Aromatics (Optional): Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until they are softened and fragrant. This step enhances flavor but can be skipped to save time.
- Combine in the Crockpot: Transfer the chopped cabbage, sautéed vegetables (if using), diced tomatoes with their juices, and vegetable broth to the crockpot. Add dried thyme, oregano, bay leaf, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Cook the Soup: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, until all vegetables are tender and the flavors have blended nicely.
- Taste and Adjust: Before serving, sample the soup and adjust seasoning by adding more salt, pepper, or spices as preferred to enhance the taste.
- Serve: Remove and discard the bay leaf. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or basil if using. Serve hot and enjoy your hearty cabbage soup!
Notes
- You can substitute vegetable broth with chicken broth for a non-vegetarian option.
- Sautéing the vegetables before adding to the crockpot is optional but adds depth of flavor.
- Adjust the amount of crushed red pepper flakes to control the heat level.
- This soup freezes well and can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
- For thicker soup, cook uncovered for the last 30 minutes or mash some of the cabbage inside.
