Name: Garlicky Cabbage Soup
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil; 1 medium onion, finely chopped; 4-5 cloves garlic, thinly sliced; 1 medium head green cabbage, chopped; 1 can cannellini beans, rinsed; 4 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth; 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese; 1 tablespoon lemon juice or lime juice; 1 large egg, optional; ground pepper to taste; salt to taste

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Garlicky Cabbage Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. This hearty soup is filled with fresh, vibrant ingredients like tender cabbage and flavorful garlic, making it not only delicious but also gut-friendly. The comforting blend of cannellini beans and a touch of Parmesan cheese brings richness while keeping it light and nourishing. Perfect for chilly evenings or when you’re craving something cozy, every spoonful is an invitation to savor something truly special.

Table of Contents

Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need
How to Make Garlicky Cabbage Soup
Storing & Reheating
Chef’s Helpful Tips
Recipe FAQs
Garlicky Cabbage Soup

I first stumbled upon this delightful recipe during a cold winter night when I needed something both easy and fulfilling. The aroma wafting through the kitchen as the garlic sautéed with onions brought back heartwarming memories of my mother’s cooking. Instantly, I was transported back to blissful childhood days. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just beginning your culinary journey, I’m confident this Garlicky Cabbage Soup will quickly become a favorite in your home. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll wonder how you lived without it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Simple & Quick: Ready in just 50 minutes, it’s perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute guests.
Irresistible Flavor: The combination of garlic and fresh cabbage creates a savory aroma and a satisfying blend of flavors in every bite.
Eye-Catching Appeal: The vibrant green of cabbage mixed with the creamy texture of beans makes for a visually appealing dish.
Flexible Serving: Great as a main course or a side, this soup is versatile enough for any occasion.
Diet-Friendly Options: Vegetarian-friendly and easily adaptable for vegan diets—just swap the egg and cheese.

Ingredients You’ll Need

2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil: This healthy fat adds richness to the soup. Feel free to use any neutral oil if you prefer.
1 medium onion, finely chopped: Onion forms the fragrant base of the dish, enhancing the overall flavor.
4-5 cloves garlic, thinly sliced: Garlic brings warmth and depth, creating that delightful aroma as it cooks.
1 medium head green cabbage, chopped: Fresh cabbage offers a healthy crunch and pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
1 can cannellini beans, rinsed: These creamy beans lend a hearty texture and plant-based protein to make the soup comforting.
4 cups low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth: Homemade broth lends the best flavor, but store-bought works too—just watch the sodium!
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a savory richness. To keep it vegetarian, look for cheese labeled as vegetarian-friendly.
1 tablespoon lemon juice or lime juice: A splash of acidity brightens up the whole dish. Use lime for a fresh twist.
1 large egg (optional): This ingredient adds creaminess; you can substitute with silken tofu for a vegan option.
Ground pepper, to taste: Freshly cracked black pepper enhances the overall flavor profile.
Salt, to taste: Essential for flavor balancing—start with a little and adjust as needed.

How to Make Garlicky Cabbage Soup

Heat the Oil: In a large pot, heat 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil over medium heat. Wait until it shimmers before moving on, as this indicates the oil is hot enough to commence cooking.

Sauté the Onion: Add 1 finely chopped onion to the pot and sauté until it’s translucent, which should take about 4-5 minutes. This step builds a flavor foundation, creating a sweet background for the soup.

Add the Garlic: Stir in 4-5 cloves of thinly sliced garlic and allow it to cook for an additional minute. The fragrance should fill your kitchen, a sign it’s ready for the next step.

Incorporate the Cabbage: Toss in 1 medium head of chopped green cabbage. Stir occasionally for about 5-6 minutes until it wilts but still retains some crunch, adding texture to the soup.

Pour in the Broth: Gradually pour in 4 cups of low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth and throw in 1 can of rinsed cannellini beans. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 10 minutes. This melds the flavors beautifully.

Make the Egg Mixture: In a separate bowl, whisk together 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, the juice of 1 tablespoon lemon juice, 1 large egg, a sprinkle of ground pepper, and some salt. This will thicken and enrich the soup when added.

Combine the Egg Mixture: Remove the soup from heat and gradually drizzle the egg mixture into the pot while stirring constantly. This technique ensures a smooth texture without scrambling the egg.

Finish Cooking: Return the pot to low heat and gently stir for another 2-3 minutes until the soup thickens slightly. It will start looking creamy and inviting, begging to be served!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container at room temperature for a few hours. For longer storage, refrigerate for up to 5 days. If you have more than you can eat, freeze it in portions using freezer-safe containers, where it can last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready for a bowl of warmth, simply reheat over low heat on the stovetop for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Keep in mind the texture may change slightly, so add a splash of broth or water to refresh the consistency as needed.

Chef’s Helpful Tips

Avoid overcooking the cabbage; it should be tender but still crunchy for the best texture.
For a creamier soup, use room temperature eggs to help with better emulsification when added.
Taste as you go! Adjust the salt and pepper according to your preferences.
If you’re making this ahead of time, hold off adding the cheese until you reheat, as it keeps the soup’s texture from becoming overly thick.
Enhance flavor with a dash of red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat.

Garlicky Cabbage Soup is not just a recipe; it’s a comforting meal that provides both nourishment and warmth. The incredible blend of flavors will not only satisfy your taste buds but also leave you feeling good inside. I encourage you to experiment with additional herbs or spices and don’t hesitate to make it your own. Enjoy making this for family or friends, or simply treat yourself to a cozy night in!

Recipe FAQs

Can I make this soup vegan?

Absolutely! To make this Garlicky Cabbage Soup vegan, simply omit the egg and replace the Parmesan cheese with a vegan alternative or nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

How can I make it spicier?

If you love a little heat, consider adding red pepper flakes while sautéing the onions. You can also top it with a splash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper when serving.

What can I serve with Garlicky Cabbage Soup?

This hearty soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a side salad, or even some cheesy quesadillas for a delightful meal combination.

Can I use different types of beans?

Certainly! Feel free to swap out the cannellini beans for chickpeas or kidney beans. Each option will add its unique flavor while keeping the soup hearty and satisfying.