Kapusta (Cabbage) Soup – A Nourishing, Plant-Based Comfort Food

Kapusta, also known as cabbage soup, is a traditional Eastern European dish that’s as nutritious as it is comforting. Made with fresh vegetables, hearty potatoes, and a flavorful tomato-based broth, this soup is packed with fiber, antioxidants, and wholesome plant-based ingredients. Perfect for chilly days, this recipe is easy to prepare and brings a taste of old-world tradition right to your kitchen.

Why Make Kapusta Soup?

Kapusta soup is an excellent source of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, especially with the addition of cabbage. Known for its cancer-fighting properties, cabbage is a powerhouse ingredient that complements the hearty flavors of carrots, potatoes, and beans. With a warm, savory broth seasoned with thyme, paprika, and a hint of red pepper flakes, this soup is satisfying and perfect for a nourishing meal.

Ingredients

To make this delicious and comforting soup, you’ll need:

• 1 large yellow onion, diced

• 3 medium carrots, diced

• 2 celery ribs, diced

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tbsp tomato paste

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• 1 tsp smoked paprika

• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1 bay leaf

• 4 cups vegetable broth, low sodium

• 2 cups water

• 1 medium green cabbage, cored and chopped (about 6 cups)

• 3 medium gold potatoes, peeled and diced

• 1 can fire-roasted diced tomatoes, with juice

• 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained

• 1 tsp sea salt, more to taste

• Fresh ground black pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Directions

1. Sauté the Onions: In a large pot, sauté the diced onions in a small amount of vegetable broth over medium heat until they become translucent.

2. Add Vegetables and Spices: Add the diced carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes, then stir in the tomato paste, dried thyme, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes.

3. Add Cabbage and Broth: Add the chopped cabbage, diced potatoes, vegetable broth, water, fire-roasted tomatoes, bay leaf, and sea salt. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer until the cabbage and potatoes are tender, about 25-30 minutes.

4. Add the Beans: In the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the drained cannellini beans. Stir well and allow the beans to warm through.

5. Serve and Garnish: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and enjoy a warm, comforting bowl of kapusta soup!

Customizing Your Kapusta Soup

This kapusta soup is versatile and can be adjusted to suit your tastes:

• Make it spicy: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a little heat.

• Switch the beans: Try kidney beans or chickpeas for a different flavor.

• Add more greens: Stir in a handful of chopped kale or spinach near the end for extra nutrients.

Kapusta soup is a hearty, nutritious dish that’s perfect for anyone looking to enjoy a plant-based meal full of flavor and tradition. With its rich, savory broth and tender vegetables, this soup is sure to warm you up and nourish your body. Enjoy this classic comfort food and bring a taste of Eastern Europe to your table!