Cabbage and Sausage Soup

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Imagine a hearty, comforting bowl of soup, where the warmth of Italian sausage meets the crunch of fresh cabbage and the richness of tomatoes.

This Cabbage and Sausage Soup is not just another meal; it’s a experience that wraps you in a delicious embrace.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner idea or a nutritious lunch, this soup fits the bill perfectly.

It’s easy to prepare and full of flavor, making it a go-to recipe for any home cook.

Why This Recipe Is a Must-Try

Cabbage and Sausage Soup is a fantastic way to enjoy a nutritious meal without sacrificing flavor.

The combination of savory sausage, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs creates a deeply satisfying dish.

This recipe also shines because it’s incredibly versatile.

You can adjust the ingredients based on what you have in your pantry, and it freezes beautifully for those busy days when you need a quick meal.

Plus, it’s a delightful way to incorporate more veggies into your diet!

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound bulk Italian sausage, crumbled
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 1 stalk celery, diced
• 1 small head green cabbage, core removed and diced (about 1.5 to 2 pounds)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken stock or broth
• 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt & pepper to taste

How To Make Cabbage and Sausage Soup

Step 1: Prepare the Base

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

Once the oil is shimmering, add the crumbled Italian sausage to the pot.

Break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks.

Sauté the sausage until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

To the pot with sausage, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery.

Stir well and cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables have softened and the onions are translucent.

The aroma will start to fill your kitchen, creating a delicious foundation for your soup.

Step 3: Incorporate the Cabbage

Next, add the diced cabbage to the pot.

Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

Cook for about 3-4 minutes, allowing the cabbage to wilt slightly before moving on to the next step.

Step 4: Bring in the Flavors

Now it’s time to add the minced garlic and Italian seasoning.

Sauté for another minute until the garlic becomes fragrant.

This step is crucial as it builds layers of flavor in your soup.

Step 5: Add Liquid and Simmer

Pour in the low-sodium chicken stock and the can of diced tomatoes (with their juices).

Add the bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes.

This simmering step allows all the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 6: Final Touches

After the simmering time, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary.

Remove the bay leaf before serving, and enjoy your warm, hearty Cabbage and Sausage Soup with crusty bread or on its own for a nutritious meal!

Expert Tips

• For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to brighten up the dish.
• If you like a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes along with the garlic.
• For a vegetarian version, substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or white beans for protein, and use vegetable broth.
• Always taste your soup before serving to ensure the seasoning is just right; every batch is a little different!

Variations and Customizations

• Add additional vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or potatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Use different types of canned tomatoes, such as fire-roasted tomatoes, for a smoky flavor.
• Incorporate beans like cannellini or kidney beans for added protein and a creamier texture.
• Experiment with different herbs—parsley or thyme could complement the soup wonderfully.

How to Store Leftovers

This soup is perfect for meal prep and makes excellent leftovers.

Allow the soup to cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container.

Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

If you’d like to keep it longer, you can freeze the soup for up to 3 months.

When ready to eat, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.

FAQ

Can I use other types of sausage in this recipe?

Absolutely! You can substitute the Italian sausage with any other ground sausage you prefer.

Turkey or chicken sausage can be a lighter option, or you can even use spicy varieties for added heat.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, this Cabbage and Sausage Soup is naturally gluten-free.

Just ensure that the broth and any sausage you use are certified gluten-free if you have dietary restrictions.

Can I cook this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the sausage and sauté the veggies on the stove first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker.

Add the liquids and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the vegetables are tender.

How can I make this soup more filling?

To make the soup more filling, you can add cooked grains such as quinoa, rice, or pasta.

Just make sure to cook the grains separately and add them to the soup just before serving to prevent them from becoming mushy.

Conclusion

Cabbage and Sausage Soup is a true comfort food that combines simple ingredients to create a flavorful and hearty dish.

It’s perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you need a nutritional boost.

The versatility of this recipe allows you to adapt it to your preferences, making it a fantastic addition to your recipe rotation.

So grab your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a warm, soothing bowl of this delightful soup.

Happy cooking!

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