Crockpot Cabbage Soup

Hearty Cabbage Soup Recipe from California | Delicious Comfort Food

Region / culture: California | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 6 hours | Servings: 6

Introduction

Crockpot cabbage soup is a hearty and nutritious dish that is perfect for a cold winter day. This recipe is easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.

History

Cabbage soup has been a popular dish in many cultures for centuries. It is often associated with Eastern European cuisine, where cabbage is a staple ingredient. Crockpot cabbage soup is a modern twist on this classic dish, making it easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

0.5 head of cabbage
1 whole white onion or 2 whole yellow onions
3 cloves of garlic
16 oz (454 g) of tomato sauce, more if desired

How to prepare

Cut the cabbage into small pieces.
Dice the onions into long thin pieces.
Grate the garlic using a cheese grater into the crockpot.
Fill the crockpot 0.75 of the way with water.
Cook on high for 3–4 hours.
Add tomato sauce (and more water if needed).
Season with desired seasonings for flavor.
I recommend using pepper, salt, garlic salt, and Italian seasoning. Cook on low for 2 more hours or until desired consistency is reached.
Enjoy your meal.

Variations

Add protein-rich ingredients such as beans, tofu, or chicken to make the soup more filling.
Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor of the soup.
Add additional vegetables such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers for extra nutrients.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to cut the cabbage into small pieces to ensure that it cooks evenly.

- Grating the garlic into the crockpot will help distribute the flavor throughout the soup.

- Season the soup with your favorite herbs and spices to enhance the flavor.

- You can add additional vegetables or protein, such as beans or tofu, to make the soup more filling.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this soup with a side of crusty bread or a green salad for a complete meal. You can also top it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated cheese for added flavor.

Cooking Techniques

This soup is cooked in a crockpot, which allows the flavors to meld together slowly over time. This results in a rich and flavorful soup that is perfect for a cozy night in.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use vegetable broth instead of water for a richer flavor.

- If you don't have tomato sauce, you can use diced tomatoes or tomato paste as a substitute.

- Feel free to add any other vegetables or protein sources that you have on hand to customize this soup to your liking.

Make Ahead Tips

This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Simply reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish this soup with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or basil, for a pop of color. You can also drizzle a swirl of olive oil on top for added richness.

Pairing Recommendations

This soup pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, or a light beer. You can also serve it with a side of crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the soup on the stove or in the microwave until heated through before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of this soup contains approximately 80 calories, making it a light and healthy meal option.

Carbohydrates

Cabbage is a low-carb vegetable, making this soup a great option for those following a low-carb diet. Each serving of this soup contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

This soup is low in fat, with each serving containing only 1 gram of fat. You can further reduce the fat content by using a low-fat tomato sauce.

Proteins

While this soup is not high in protein, you can add protein-rich ingredients such as beans or tofu to increase the protein content. Each serving of this soup contains approximately 2 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Cabbage is a rich source of vitamins K and C, as well as fiber. This soup also contains garlic, which is known for its immune-boosting properties.

Alergens

This soup is gluten-free and dairy-free, making it suitable for those with gluten or lactose intolerances. However, if you have a garlic allergy, you may need to omit or substitute the garlic in this recipe.

Summary

Overall, this crockpot cabbage soup is a nutritious and low-calorie meal option that is packed with vitamins and minerals.

Summary

Crockpot cabbage soup is a delicious and nutritious meal option that is easy to make and perfect for a cold winter day. This recipe can be customized to suit your taste preferences and is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

The first time I saw this recipe, I was filled with excitement. I had always been a fan of cabbage soup, but I had never tried making it in a crockpot before. As I read through the ingredients and instructions, I could already imagine the delicious aroma that would fill my kitchen as it simmered away all day.

I first learned how to make this recipe from my dear friend, Mrs. Jenkins. She was an amazing cook and always had the most delicious recipes to share. One day, she invited me over for lunch and served me a bowl of her famous crockpot cabbage soup. I couldn't get enough of it and begged her for the recipe. She graciously wrote it out for me on a little index card, which I still have to this day.

The key to making this soup so flavorful is to sauté the onions and garlic before adding them to the crockpot. This step really helps to enhance the depth of flavor in the soup. Mrs. Jenkins also taught me to add a splash of apple cider vinegar at the end of cooking to brighten up the flavors and balance out the richness of the broth.

Over the years, I have made this soup countless times for my family and friends. It has become a staple in our household, especially during the colder months when we crave something warm and comforting. My grandchildren always request it when they come to visit, and I love watching them slurp up every last drop of the savory broth.

I have also tweaked the recipe a bit over the years, adding in extra vegetables like carrots and celery for added nutrition and flavor. Sometimes I even throw in a can of diced tomatoes for a bit of acidity and sweetness. The beauty of this recipe is that it is so versatile – you can really make it your own by adding in whatever vegetables you have on hand.

One of my favorite memories of making this soup was when my daughter, Sarah, came home from college for a visit. She had been feeling under the weather and requested a bowl of my cabbage soup to help her feel better. As she sat at the kitchen table, savoring each spoonful, I couldn't help but feel a sense of pride and joy. Food has a way of bringing people together and nourishing not just our bodies, but our souls as well.

As I sit here, writing out this recipe for you, I can't help but feel grateful for all the wonderful people who have come into my life and shared their culinary knowledge with me. Cooking is not just about following a set of instructions – it is about connecting with others and creating memories that will last a lifetime.

I hope you enjoy making this crockpot cabbage soup as much as I have. May it bring warmth and comfort to your home, just as it has to mine. And remember, the secret ingredient is always love. Happy cooking!