Table of Contents
Winter can be cold. A warm bowl of slow cooker cabbage soup is perfect. It’s a hearty, nutritious meal that I love making.
This soup is easy to make and tastes great. You need just a few ingredients and a little time. It’s a healthy, tasty dish that’s easy to make.
This soup is good for you and tastes like comfort food. It’s low in calories but full of vitamins. You can make it in a slow cooker and it’s very flexible.
Key Takeaways
- Crockpot cabbage soup is a nutritious and easy-to-prepare meal
- Low in calories (approximately 41 calories per cup)
- Packed with essential vitamins and minerals
- Can be prepared in 4-8 hours using a slow cooker
- Supports possible weight management goals
Benefits of Making Cabbage Soup in a Slow Cooker
Using a slow cooker for cabbage soup is great for home cooks. It makes cooking easy and fun. You don’t have to spend a lot of time in the kitchen.
Time-Saving Advantages
My slow cooker cabbage soup recipe is perfect for those who are always busy. Just 10 minutes of prep time and you’re set. The crockpot cooks the soup for you, so you can relax.
- Minimal prep time (15 minutes)
- Hands-off cooking method
- Flexible cooking times (4-8 hours)
Nutrient Retention Benefits
Slow cooking keeps more nutrients in your food. It uses gentle heat to keep veggies like cabbage full of vitamins and minerals.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Vitamin A | 3106 IU |
| Vitamin C | 61 mg |
| Calcium | 103 mg |
| Iron | 2 mg |
Energy Efficiency
Crockpot cabbage soup is tasty and good for the planet. Slow cookers use less electricity than ovens. This means you save energy and make delicious meals.
Cooking smart means cooking sustainably!
Essential Ingredients for the Perfect Crockpot Cabbage Soup
Making a tasty cabbage detox soup starts with picking the right stuff. I’ll show you the key parts that make a simple soup into a healthy meal. This is great for both vegetarian and keto cabbage soup fans.
The main ingredient is fresh cabbage. Pick a medium head for 3-4 cups of chopped cabbage. Choose crisp, bright leaves for the best taste and health benefits.
Core Ingredients List
- 1 medium head of cabbage (chopped)
- 1 cup chopped onions
- 2 stalks celery (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 6 cups low-sodium broth (vegetable or chicken)
For keto cabbage soup, use low-carb veggies and high-fat broths. This recipe is flexible. You can change it to fit different diets.
Flavor Boosters
- 1-2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- 1 bay leaf
- 1-2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
- Fresh parsley for garnish
“The right ingredients can transform a simple soup into a nutritional powerhouse.” – Culinary Wisdom
Choosing the right ingredients makes a cabbage soup that’s not just yummy but also full of good stuff. Whether you’re making a veggie or keto version, these ingredients will help you succeed.
Step-by-Step Preparation Instructions
Making a tasty cabbage soup in a crock pot is easy. I’ll show you how to make a meal that will make your family happy.
Preparing the Vegetables
First, get your fresh ingredients ready. For this simple cabbage soup, you need to:
- Wash and chop 1 3/4 lbs of cabbage into small pieces
- Dice onions, carrots, and celery
- Trim and get ready any extra veggies
Browning the Aromatics
To make your soup taste better, brown the meat and aromatics first. Here’s how:
- Brown 2 cups of diced lean ham in a skillet
- Sauté onions until they’re soft
- Drain any extra fat
Slow Cooker Assembly
Now, mix everything in your slow cooker. Follow these steps:
- Put browned meat and veggies in a 6-quart slow cooker
- Pour in 6 cups of chicken stock and 2 cups of water
- Optional: Add 2 packets of Goya Ham Flavor Concentrate
- Stir gently
Put your slow cooker on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours. You’ll get a yummy, filling soup for any meal.
| Cooking Method | Time | Servings |
|---|---|---|
| Low Setting | 8 hours | 12 servings |
| High Setting | 4 hours | 12 servings |
Pro tip: For extra flavor, add chopped parsley and a bit of lemon juice before serving.
Selecting and Preparing the Cabbage
Starting a hearty cabbage soup is all about the cabbage. I’ll share how to pick and cut it for the best soup.
When you go shopping, look for these things:
- Firm, heavy heads with crisp leaves
- Vibrant green color (or deep red for variety)
- No soft spots or wilted outer leaves
- Compact and dense when squeezed
For cutting cabbage, you need a sharp knife. Here’s how to do it:
- Rinse the cabbage under cool water
- Remove any damaged outer leaves
- Cut the head in half with a sharp knife
- Slice those halves into quarters
- Remove the core from each quarter
- Chop into 1-inch chunks for your hearty cabbage soup
Pro tip: The size of your cabbage chunks affects cooking time and texture. Smaller pieces cook faster and are tender, great for easy cabbage soup.
| Cabbage Type | Best Uses | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Green Cabbage | Classic soup base | Mild, slightly peppery |
| Red Cabbage | Color and nutrition boost | Slightly stronger taste |
| Savoy Cabbage | Delicate texture | Tender, sweet undertones |
Remember, cabbage gets smaller when it cooks. So, start with a big amount in your crockpot.
The Role of Seasonings and Spices
Making a hearty cabbage soup is more than veggies and broth. The magic comes from the right mix of seasonings and spices. They turn a simple soup into a work of art.
When making keto cabbage soup, picking the right herbs and spices is key. They add flavor and keep the soup low in carbs.
Basic Seasoning Combinations
My favorite seasoning mix for cabbage soup includes:
- Sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
- Garlic powder
- Dried bay leaves
- Thyme
Herb and Spice Variations
Want to make your keto cabbage soup even better? Try these:
- Italian Seasoning: A mix of basil, oregano, and rosemary
- Smoked paprika for depth
- Red pepper flakes for heat
- Fresh herbs like parsley or dill
Pro tip: Start with a little seasoning. You can always add more, but you can’t take it away. Let the soup simmer and taste it as you go.
Crockpot Cabbage Soup Recipe Variations
I love making vegetarian cabbage soup that fits many diets and tastes. This recipe is super flexible. You can change it up in many ways.
- Protein Boost Variations
- Vegetarian protein options: Add chickpeas, black beans, or lentils
- Meat protein choices: Ground beef, chicken, turkey, or Italian sausage
- Dietary Adaptation Strategies
- Low-carb version: Use low-carb veggies like cauliflower and zucchini
- Keto-friendly: Add healthy fats like olive oil or coconut cream
- Weight loss approach: Use lean proteins and lots of veggies
Try adding curry powder for an Indian twist. Or use kielbasa and caraway seeds for a Polish flavor.
Pro tip: Keep the main veggies the same. Change the proteins and spices to fit your diet and taste.
Nutritional Benefits and Health Advantages
Crockpot cabbage soup is more than tasty—it’s full of good stuff for your health. It helps with weight loss and is packed with nutrients. This makes it a great choice for anyone looking for a healthy, low-calorie meal.
Caloric Profile and Nutritional Density
This cabbage soup is very low in calories but full of nutrients. A serving has few calories but lots of good stuff. Here are the main points:
- Extremely low-calorie content (approximately 50-100 calories per serving)
- High fiber concentration supporting digestive health
- Minimal fat content
Vitamin and Mineral Powerhouse
This soup is full of vitamins and minerals. Cabbage is a superfood, packed with nutrients that boost your health.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | Health Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Vitamin C | 54% Daily Value | Immune system support |
| Vitamin K | 85% Daily Value | Bone health |
| Potassium | 10% Daily Value | Heart function |
Weight Management Benefits
This cabbage soup is great for weight management. It’s high in fiber, which makes you feel full. Studies show that soup diets can help you eat less and feel satisfied.
Important Note: While cabbage soup can help with weight loss, it’s part of a bigger picture. Eating well and staying active is key. Quick weight loss can harm your health, like losing muscle and messing with your metabolism.
Storage and Reheating Guidelines
Storing your easy cabbage soup recipe right keeps it tasty and safe. After making your crockpot cabbage soup, it’s key to store it well. This keeps the flavor good and stops bad bacteria.
Let your soup cool down to room temperature in 30 minutes. Then, put it in airtight containers. Make sure there’s space at the top for when it freezes.
Refrigeration Guidelines
- Store in sealed containers
- Refrigerate for up to 4-5 days
- Keep at consistent cool temperatures
Freezing Recommendations
- Freeze for up to 3 months
- Use freezer-safe containers
- Portion into individual servings
Reheating needs care. Heat your crockpot cabbage soup to over 165°F to kill bacteria. When thawing, let it sit in the fridge for 1-2 days.
Pro tip: Avoid refreezing previously frozen soup to maintain optimal taste and texture.
Use microwave-safe containers or a stovetop for gentle reheating. If it’s too thick, add a bit of broth to make it right again.
Serving Suggestions and Pairings
My hearty cabbage soup is best with the right sides. Try it with warm crusty bread. It’s great for soaking up the broth.
For a bigger meal, pair it with a grilled cheese or a green salad. Add cheese or Greek yogurt for extra protein. Roasted veggies are also a tasty choice.
Don’t forget to add fresh herbs like parsley or dill. A pinch of crushed red pepper flakes adds heat. You can mix and match to find your favorite way to enjoy it.
This soup serves five, perfect for family dinners or parties. It’s only 88 calories per serving. It’s healthy and filling for everyone.
FAQ
How long can I store crockpot cabbage soup?
You can keep it in the fridge for up to 5 days. It also freezes well for 3 months. Make sure to leave space at the top of the container.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Just skip the meat and add beans or lentils for protein. Use veggie stock instead of beef broth. You’ll get a tasty, healthy cabbage soup.
Is cabbage soup good for weight loss?
Yes, it’s great for losing weight. It’s low in calories and high in fiber. It makes you feel full and is full of nutrients.
How can I make the soup keto-friendly?
Use low-carb veggies and a high-fat broth. Add olive oil for extra fat. Skip starchy veggies and use herbs for flavor.
What type of cabbage works best for this soup?
Green cabbage is best, but red cabbage adds color. Choose firm, heavy cabbages with crisp leaves. Remove wilted leaves before chopping.
Can I add meat to the cabbage soup?
Yes! Add chicken breast for lean meat or ground beef for a hearty soup. Brown the meat with onions first for better flavor.
How long should I cook the soup in the crockpot?
Cook on low for 6-8 hours. This slow cooking makes the flavors deep and veggies tender.
What are some good garnishes for cabbage soup?
Try parsley, dill, Greek yogurt, grated cheese, or red pepper flakes. The right garnish can make the soup even better.