Delicious and Nutritious Cabbage Soup Recipe in Crock Pot
If you're looking for a comforting, hearty, and healthy meal, this cabbage soup recipe in crock pot is a perfect choice. Not only is it incredibly easy to p……
If you're looking for a comforting, hearty, and healthy meal, this cabbage soup recipe in crock pot is a perfect choice. Not only is it incredibly easy to prepare, but it also provides a wealth of nutrients that can support your overall health. This recipe is ideal for those who want to enjoy a warm, flavorful soup without spending hours in the kitchen. Below, you'll find a detailed guide on how to make this delicious soup, along with some tips and variations to customize it to your liking.
### Ingredients
To make this cabbage soup recipe in crock pot, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 6 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 cup of cooked beans or lentils for added protein
### Instructions
1. **Prepare the Vegetables**: Start by washing and chopping all the vegetables. This includes the cabbage, carrots, celery, and onion. Mince the garlic cloves.
2. **Combine Ingredients in Crock Pot**: In your crock pot, add the chopped cabbage, sliced carrots, chopped celery, diced onion, and minced garlic. Pour in the can of diced tomatoes (including the juice) and the vegetable broth.
3. **Season the Soup**: Add the dried thyme, dried basil, and paprika to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together to ensure the spices are evenly distributed.
4. **Cook the Soup**: Set your crock pot to cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The soup is ready when the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together.
5. **Optional Add-ins**: If you want to add some protein to your soup, you can stir in a cup of cooked beans or lentils about 30 minutes before the cooking time is up.
6. **Serve and Enjoy**: Once the soup is done cooking, give it a good stir and taste to adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot and enjoy!
### Tips for the Best Cabbage Soup
- **Use Fresh Ingredients**: Fresh vegetables will give your soup the best flavor. If you have access to a farmer's market, try to get your produce there.
- **Customize Your Soup**: This cabbage soup recipe in crock pot is very versatile. You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or potatoes. You can also add different herbs and spices to suit your taste.
- **Storage**: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to a week. It also freezes beautifully, so consider making a double batch and freezing half for later.
### Health Benefits
This cabbage soup recipe in crock pot is not just delicious but also packed with health benefits:
- **Low in Calories**: Cabbage is low in calories but high in fiber, making this soup a great option for those looking to maintain or lose weight.
- **Rich in Vitamins and Minerals**: Cabbage is a good source of vitamin K, vitamin C, and folate. The other vegetables in the soup also contribute additional vitamins and minerals.
- **High in Fiber**: The high fiber content in this soup can help with digestion and keep you feeling full longer.
### Variations
- **Spicy Cabbage Soup**: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a spicy kick.
- **Mediterranean Style**: Add a can of chickpeas, some chopped spinach, and a squeeze of lemon juice for a Mediterranean twist.
- **Meaty Option**: For a heartier soup, add some cooked ground turkey or sausage.
In conclusion, this cabbage soup recipe in crock pot is a versatile, easy-to-make dish that can be customized to suit your preferences. Whether you're looking for a light and healthy meal or a hearty, comforting soup, this recipe has you covered. Enjoy the process of making it and savor every delicious bite!