Oh my goodness, let me tell you about this *Cabbage & White Bean Soup*! It’s one of those cozy dishes that just warms your soul and fills your belly with goodness. I love making this soup on chilly days when I want something hearty yet healthy. The combination of tender cabbage and creamy white beans creates a delightful texture, while the fresh garlic and thyme add a beautiful aroma that fills my kitchen. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients and perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week ahead. Trust me, you’ll feel good about every spoonful! So, grab your pot and let’s dive into this wholesome recipe that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!
Ingredients
Before we start cooking, let’s gather everything we need for this delightful Cabbage & White Bean Soup. Here’s your shopping list:
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped into bite-sized pieces
- 2 cans of white beans (like cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
- 1 onion, diced finely for that sweet flavor
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced to add that amazing aroma
- 4 cups vegetable broth for a rich base
- 2 carrots, sliced into rounds for a bit of sweetness
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme, or you can use fresh if you have it!
- Salt to taste (I usually start with about a teaspoon)
- Pepper to taste (freshly cracked is the best!)
Feel free to customize this list based on what you have on hand. The beauty of soup is its versatility, so let your creativity shine! Now that we’ve got our ingredients ready, let’s get cooking!
How to Prepare Cabbage & White Bean Soup
Now that we have all our ingredients prepped and ready, let’s get this soup bubbling away! It’s super simple, so don’t worry if you’re a bit new to cooking. Here’s how I do it:
- First, heat a large pot over medium heat. You want it nice and warm, but not too hot to start.
- Once the pot is warmed up, toss in your diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. This is where the magic begins!
- Next, add the sliced carrots and chopped cabbage to the pot. Cook them for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cabbage will start to wilt, and oh, that smell is just heavenly!
- Now it’s time to add the star ingredients: the white beans, vegetable broth, dried thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Give it a good stir to combine everything.
- Bring the pot to a gentle boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This is when all those flavors meld together beautifully!
- After 30 minutes, give it a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. Then, ladle it into bowls and serve hot. Enjoy every warm, comforting spoonful!
And there you have it! A deliciously hearty Cabbage & White Bean Soup that’s perfect for any occasion. I can’t wait for you to try it!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Nutritious and Wholesome: Packed with vitamins and fiber from the cabbage and beans, this soup is a powerhouse of nutrition that keeps you feeling satisfied!
- Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this hearty soup in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- One-Pot Wonder: Who doesn’t love a meal that doesn’t create a mountain of dishes? Everything cooks together in one pot, simplifying cleanup!
- Flavorful and Comforting: The combination of garlic, thyme, and the sweetness of the carrots creates a warm, inviting flavor that feels like a hug in a bowl.
- Versatile: You can easily customize this recipe by adding your favorite veggies or spices, making it a great way to use up what’s in your fridge!
- Meal Prep Friendly: This soup stores beautifully in the fridge and can be frozen for later—perfect for those days when you need a quick, healthy meal.
- Vegan and Gluten-Free: Enjoyed by everyone, this soup is suitable for various dietary preferences, making it a hit for gatherings!
Tips for Success
Making the perfect Cabbage & White Bean Soup is all about a few simple tricks that will elevate your dish to the next level. Here are my top tips to ensure success every time you whip it up:
- Don’t Rush the Sauté: Take your time when sautéing the onion and garlic. Let them cook until they’re soft and fragrant; this step builds a flavor foundation for your soup!
- Choose Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cabbage and crisp carrots make a world of difference. If you can, opt for seasonal veggies. They’ll add more vibrancy and taste to your soup!
- Adjust the Seasoning: Taste your soup towards the end of cooking. Everyone’s palate is different, so don’t hesitate to add a little more salt, pepper, or thyme to suit your taste.
- Experiment with Texture: If you prefer a creamier soup, consider blending a portion of the soup with an immersion blender. This adds a lovely creaminess while still keeping some hearty chunks!
- Storage Tips: When storing leftovers, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps maintain the flavors and prevents sogginess!
- Freeze for Later: If you’re making a big batch, portion out some soup to freeze. It’s a lifesaver for those busy days when you need a quick meal without any fuss!
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll be well on your way to mastering this comforting Cabbage & White Bean Soup. Happy cooking!
Variations of Cabbage & White Bean Soup
One of the best things about this Cabbage & White Bean Soup is its incredible versatility! I love how you can easily switch things up based on what you have in your fridge or what flavors you’re craving. Here are some fun variations you can try:
- Greens Galore: Toss in some chopped kale or spinach during the last few minutes of cooking for an extra boost of nutrients and a pop of color. It wilts beautifully and adds a lovely earthiness!
- Spice It Up: If you’re in the mood for a little kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños. It’ll give your soup an exciting heat that warms you from the inside out!
- Mushroom Magic: Sauté some sliced mushrooms along with the onions and garlic for a rich, umami flavor. They pair wonderfully with the beans and cabbage!
- Herb Lovers: Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. Add them just before serving for a fresh burst of flavor that brightens up every bowl!
- Sweet Potatoes: Swap out the carrots for diced sweet potatoes for a slightly sweet twist that complements the earthy flavors of the beans and cabbage. Just adjust your cooking time a bit, as they may need a few extra minutes to soften.
- Italian Flair: Add a can of diced tomatoes and a teaspoon of Italian seasoning or basil to give your soup an Italian vibe. Serve with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese on top for a special touch!
- Protein Boost: For a heartier version, consider adding some cooked sausage or shredded chicken. This makes it even more filling and satisfying!
Feel free to mix and match these ideas or come up with your own! The key is to have fun and create a version of this soup that you truly love. Happy experimenting!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
So, you’ve made a big batch of my delicious Cabbage & White Bean Soup, and now you’re wondering how to store those tasty leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to keep your soup fresh and flavorful:
First, let the soup cool down to room temperature before storing it. This is an important step because putting hot soup directly into the fridge can raise the temperature inside and affect the rest of your food. Once it’s cooled, transfer the soup into airtight containers. I love using glass containers because they’re durable and don’t absorb odors, but any airtight container will do!
You can store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Just make sure it’s well-sealed! If you want to keep it longer, you can easily freeze it. Portion your soup into freezer-safe containers or freezer bags (just leave a little space at the top for expansion), and it’ll keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just pull it out and let it thaw in the fridge overnight.
Now, let’s talk reheating! For the best results, reheat your soup on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir occasionally until it’s heated through. If it seems a little too thick, you can add a splash of vegetable broth or water to loosen it up. If you’re in a hurry, you can also use the microwave—just make sure to heat it in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
And there you have it! Proper storage and reheating will keep your Cabbage & White Bean Soup tasting just as delicious as when you first made it. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!
Nutritional Information
Let’s take a moment to appreciate the nutritional goodness packed into this amazing Cabbage & White Bean Soup! Keep in mind that these values are estimates based on the ingredients used, so they can vary a bit depending on what you add or how you prepare it. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect per serving (about 1 cup):
- Calories: 200
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 10g
- Sugar: 2g
- Protein: 10g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Cholesterol: 0mg
This soup not only fills you up but also provides a hearty dose of fiber, protein, and essential vitamins—making it a perfect choice for a nutritious meal. So go ahead, enjoy a big bowl knowing you’re treating your body right!
FAQ Section
Can I use fresh beans instead of canned beans?
Absolutely! If you prefer using dried beans, just make sure to soak them overnight and cook them separately before adding them to the soup. This way, you’ll have perfectly tender beans in your delicious Cabbage & White Bean Soup.
Can I add meat to this soup?
Of course! If you want to make it heartier, feel free to add cooked sausage, shredded chicken, or even diced ham. Just toss it in when you add the broth, and let those flavors meld together!
How can I make this soup spicier?
If you’re looking for a bit of heat, consider adding some red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños while sautéing the onions and garlic. It’ll give your Cabbage & White Bean Soup a nice kick!
Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Yes! This soup freezes beautifully. Just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months, and when you’re ready to enjoy it, just thaw it in the fridge overnight!
Can I use other vegetables in this soup?
Absolutely! The beauty of soup is its versatility. Feel free to add in your favorite veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or even some green beans. Just adjust the cooking time if needed, and enjoy your personalized version!
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Cabbage & White Bean Soup a try! It’s one of those recipes that just brings people together, whether you’re sharing it with family, friends, or simply enjoying a bowl by yourself. I love hearing about how others customize the recipe, so please don’t hesitate to share your experiences or any variations you’ve tried. Did you add a special spice? Maybe you threw in some extra veggies? Let me know what made it your own!
Cooking is so much more fun when we can connect and inspire each other, and I can’t wait to hear how your soup turns out! So, grab your spoon, dig in, and enjoy every delicious, wholesome bite. Happy cooking, my friends!
Print
Cabbage & White Bean Soup: 7 Cozy Comforting Secrets
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
A hearty and nutritious soup made with cabbage and white beans.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 2 cans of white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and garlic, sauté until soft.
- Add the sliced carrots and chopped cabbage, cook for a few minutes.
- Add the white beans, vegetable broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Feel free to add other vegetables.
- This soup stores well in the refrigerator.
- Can be frozen for later use.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 1g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Unsaturated Fat: 1g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
Keywords: Cabbage & White Bean Soup