Cabbage Fat-Burning Soup Recipe

The Cabbage Fat-Burning Soup is a light, low-calorie dish that’s packed with nutrients and perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a satisfying meal while maintaining a healthy lifestyle. This soup is easy to make, full of vegetables, and naturally flavorful. Whether you’re preparing it as part of a weight-loss plan or just seeking a nutritious, comforting soup, this recipe is a winner.

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 1 small head of green cabbage, chopped
• 2 large carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, diced
• 1 cup (150 g) green beans, trimmed and chopped
• 1 can (14 oz/400 g) diced tomatoes
• 4 cups (1 liter) vegetable or chicken broth
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp paprika
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Add-Ins:

• A handful of spinach or kale, added at the end for extra greens
• A pinch of chili flakes for heat
• 1 tsp apple cider vinegar for a tangy kick

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

1. Wash and chop all the vegetables. Keep them similar in size for even cooking.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

1. Heat a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add a splash of olive oil (optional) or water sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant, about 2–3 minutes.

Step 3: Build the Soup

1. Add the carrots, celery, green bell pepper, and green beans to the pot. Stir to combine.
2. Stir in the cabbage and cook for 3–4 minutes until slightly softened.

Step 4: Add Liquid and Seasonings

1. Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and diced tomatoes (with their juice).
2. Add the paprika, oregano, and basil. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
3. Stir well and bring the soup to a boil.

Step 5: Simmer and Cook

1. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for 20–30 minutes.
2. Stir occasionally and taste for seasoning, adding more salt, pepper, or spices if needed.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

1. Once the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded, ladle the soup into bowls.
2. Garnish with fresh parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice if desired.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serving Suggestions:

• Enjoy this soup on its own for a light meal, or pair it with whole-grain bread or a small salad.
• Add a dollop of plain yogurt or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for added creaminess and flavor.

Storage:

• Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove or microwave.
• Freezer: This soup freezes well. Cool completely before storing in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Helpful Notes

• Customize Vegetables: Feel free to swap in zucchini, mushrooms, or any other low-calorie vegetables.
• Low-Sodium Option: Use low-sodium broth and avoid adding extra salt to keep it heart-healthy.
• Protein Boost: Add shredded chicken, white beans, or lentils for a protein-packed version.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

1. Rachael Ray suggests adding a touch of lemon zest at the end to brighten the soup’s flavor.
2. Ina Garten advises simmering the soup gently to preserve the vegetables’ texture.
3. Ellie Krieger recommends blending a portion of the soup to create a slightly creamy consistency without adding calories.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why is this called a fat-burning soup?

The low-calorie, high-fiber vegetables in this soup can help you feel full while supporting a calorie deficit, which aids weight loss.

2. Can I eat this every day?

Yes, but ensure you maintain a balanced diet by including proteins, healthy fats, and other nutrients throughout the day.

3. Is this soup keto-friendly?

No, it’s relatively high in carbohydrates due to the vegetables. For a keto-friendly version, omit carrots and tomatoes.

4. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 3–4 hours.

5. Can I add meat to this soup?

Yes! Shredded chicken, ground turkey, or lean beef are excellent additions if you’re not keeping it vegetarian.

6. Is the soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free broth.

7. Can I use red cabbage instead?

Yes, but it will change the color of the soup slightly. The flavor remains delicious.

8. What can I do if the soup tastes bland?

Add more spices, a splash of vinegar, or a sprinkle of chili flakes for extra flavor.

9. How many calories are in a serving?

A single serving (about 1.5 cups) typically contains 100–150 calories, depending on the specific ingredients and amounts used.

10. Can I blend this soup?

Yes, for a creamy version, blend half or all of the soup using an immersion blender or regular blender.