Cozy Sour Cabbage Soup

Sour Cabbage Soup brings together tangy fermented cabbage, tender vegetables, and aromatic herbs to create a warm, deeply satisfying bowl of comfort. This traditional-style soup is naturally nourishing, easy to prepare, and ideal for chilly days when you want something bright yet hearty. Each spoonful delivers a perfect balance of acidity and warmth, making it a recipe worth saving for weeknight dinners, cozy winter meals, or soothing lunches.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• The tangy flavor of sour cabbage creates a refreshing yet comforting broth
• Cooks in one pot with minimal chopping and simple ingredients
• Naturally wholesome and filling without being heavy
• Ideal for cold-weather meals or immune-boosting comfort cooking
• Easy to adjust with protein or added vegetables
• Reheats beautifully, making it great for meal prep

Ingredients

Vegetables & Base

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion chopped
• 2 carrots sliced
• 2 celery stalks chopped
• 3 cloves garlic minced
• 2 medium potatoes diced
• 4 cups sour cabbage rinsed and drained
• 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste (depends on saltiness of your cabbage)

Optional Add-Ins

• 1 cup cooked shredded chicken
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until the vegetables soften.
2. Add minced garlic and stir for 30 seconds.
3. Add diced potatoes, paprika, thyme, and bay leaf. Toss to coat the vegetables with the spices.
4. Rinse the sour cabbage briefly if it’s very salty, then add it to the pot.
5. Pour in the broth and stir well to combine all ingredients.
6. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 30 to 35 minutes or until vegetables become tender.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
8. If using shredded chicken, stir it into the soup and warm through for a few minutes.
9. Remove the bay leaf and serve hot with fresh parsley.

Tips & Variations

• Taste your cabbage first. Some fermented cabbage is very salty, so rinsing before cooking may be necessary.
• Add tomato paste for a deeper color and slightly richer flavor.
• Increase the tang by adding a tablespoon of the cabbage brine at the end.
• Make it heartier by adding cooked rice or barley.
• For added protein, shredded chicken or chickpeas work perfectly.
• Use smoked paprika for a deeper, cozy flavor without using smoked meats.
• Adjust thickness by adding more broth or simmering longer to reduce the liquid.

Storage & Freezer Instructions

Sour Cabbage Soup stores and reheats extremely well, making it perfect for meal prep.

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen as it sits.
• Freeze: Freeze in portioned containers for up to 2 months. The broth stays flavorful, and the vegetables hold their shape.
• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth if it thickens after chilling.

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with crusty bread, homemade rolls, or warm pita.
• Pair with grilled cheese or a simple vegetable sandwich for a balanced meal.
• Add a dollop of plain yogurt on top for creaminess.
• Sprinkle with fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a bright finish.
• Enjoy with a side salad such as cucumber herb salad or roasted beet salad.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh cabbage instead of sour cabbage?

Fresh cabbage can be used, but the soup will lose its signature tanginess. To replicate the flavor, you can add lemon juice or apple cider vinegar at the end of cooking. However, fermented cabbage adds complexity that fresh cabbage cannot fully replace.

How do I adjust the flavor if the soup becomes too sour?

A too-tangy broth can be balanced with a small amount of sugar, extra broth, or additional potatoes. Potatoes naturally absorb acidity, making them a great way to mellow strong flavors without altering the soup’s character.

Can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?

Yes. Use vegetable broth, skip any added chicken, and finish with olive oil and herbs. The soup keeps its rich flavor because sour cabbage naturally creates depth without animal products.

Is sour cabbage healthy?

Fermented cabbage contains beneficial probiotics, vitamins, and minerals. It supports digestion and immune health, especially during colder months. When combined with vegetables and broth, it creates a nourishing, nutrient-dense meal.

Ready to Make It?

Warm, tangy, and deeply satisfying, this Sour Cabbage Soup is the kind of recipe that fits slow winter days, simple weeknight dinners, and comforting weekend cooking. Gather your vegetables, simmer everything in one pot, and enjoy a bowl that delivers an unforgettable blend of brightness and warmth. Save this recipe for later, you’ll want to make it again.

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