Comfort in a Bowl: Easy Cabbage and Bean Soup Extravaganza
Embrace the warmth and simplicity of a delightful bowl of Easy Cabbage and Bean Soup. This heartwarming recipe brings together the earthy richness of cabbage, the wholesome goodness of great northern beans, and a medley of aromatic herbs to create a soup that’s both comforting and nourishing. Join us on this culinary journey as we guide you through the steps of crafting a soup that’s not only easy to make but also a testament to the beauty of uncomplicated ingredients.
Ingredients
Gather the humble yet flavorful ingredients for your Easy Cabbage and Bean Soup:
Produce:
- 1 lb Cabbage
- 3/4 cup Carrots
- 3 cloves Garlic
- 2 15-ounce cans Great northern beans
- 2 Leeks
- 1 Thyme, Fresh sprigs
Canned Goods:
- 1/4 cup Tomato paste
- 1 1/2 qt Vegetable broth, low-sodium
Baking & Spices:
- 2 tsp Italian herb seasoning blend, dried
- 1 Pinch Red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Oils & Vinegars:
- 2 tbsp Olive oil
Instructions
Let’s dive into the art of crafting this Easy Cabbage and Bean Soup. Follow these step-by-step instructions to create a bowl of comfort that sings with simplicity:
Preparing the Ingredients:
- Chop and Slice: Begin by slicing the leeks thinly and chopping the cabbage and carrots into bite-sized pieces. Mince the garlic cloves.
Cooking the Soup:
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add leeks and garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant.
- Add Vegetables: Introduce the chopped cabbage and carrots to the pot. Sauté for a few minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Incorporate Beans: Drain and rinse the great northern beans. Add them to the pot, stirring gently to combine with the vegetables.
- Tomato Paste Magic: Spoon in the tomato paste, distributing it evenly and allowing it to infuse its rich flavor into the soup.
- Herbs and Spices Dance: Sprinkle in the dried Italian herb seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir well to coat the ingredients with the aromatic blend.
- Thyme’s Time: Tie the fresh thyme sprigs together with kitchen twine and add them to the pot. These will infuse the soup with a subtle herbal essence.
- Pour in Vegetable Broth: Gradually pour the low-sodium vegetable broth into the pot, stirring as you go. This will form the base of your soup.
- Simmer to Perfection: Allow the soup to simmer over low heat for at least 30-40 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the vegetables to become tender.
Cook Notes and Variations
Enhance your Easy Cabbage and Bean Soup experience with these cook notes and variations:
- Protein Boost: Amp up the protein content by adding diced chicken or turkey during the sautéing stage.
- Grainy Goodness: Introduce a handful of cooked quinoa or brown rice to the soup for added texture and nutrition.
- Leafy Greens Infusion: Toss in a handful of fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of simmering for a vibrant burst of greens.
- Citrus Zest: Finish the soup with a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving to brighten the flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Unlock the secrets to perfecting Easy Cabbage and Bean Soup with these frequently asked questions:
Q: Can I use other types of beans?
A: Certainly! Great northern beans can be substituted with cannellini beans, navy beans, or any white bean variety you prefer.
Q: How can I make it spicier?
A: Increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to cater to your spice preference.
Q: Can I make this soup in advance?
A: Absolutely! In fact, soups often taste even better the next day. Allow the flavors to meld and reheat gently on the stove.
Q: Is it freezer-friendly?
A: Yes, it freezes well. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Reheat on the stovetop or in a microwave when ready to enjoy.
Keto and Low-Carb Versions
For those looking to adapt this soup to keto or low-carb lifestyles, consider the following:
Keto Version:
Reduce the amount of carrots and tomatoes to lower the carb content. Consider adding more low-carb vegetables like bell peppers or cauliflower.
Low-Carb Version:
Replace the great northern beans with a low-carb alternative like chickpeas or edamame. Adjust the vegetable content to include more non-starchy options.
As we conclude our exploration of Easy Cabbage and Bean Soup, we celebrate the beauty of simplicity in the realm of culinary delights. May this soup become a staple in your kitchen, offering warmth, nourishment, and the joy of uncomplicated flavors. So, ladle up a bowl, savor the medley of vegetables, beans, and herbs, and let each spoonful bring you comfort and contentment. Here’s to the heartening embrace of a bowl of soup that feels like a cozy hug on a chilly day. Enjoy your Easy Cabbage and Bean Soup journey!