If you’re craving a soul-warming, flavorful meal that’s as comforting as a cozy hug, let me introduce you to the Hearty Cabbage Soup with Kielbasa and Vegetables Recipe. This vibrant soup blends tender cabbage, smoky kielbasa, and a colorful medley of fresh vegetables, all simmered in a rich, savory broth that’s bursting with herbs and spices. It’s the perfect bowl to brighten chilly evenings and satisfy your appetite with wholesome goodness that feels homemade and special every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
What makes this Hearty Cabbage Soup with Kielbasa and Vegetables Recipe so delightful is how simple and approachable the ingredients are; each one adds a unique layer of flavor, texture, and color to the pot. Let’s break it down so you can get everything ready for this delicious adventure:
- Dried basil (1 teaspoon): Adds a warm, slightly sweet herbal aroma that complements the soup’s richness.
- Dried parsley (1 teaspoon): Brings fresh, slightly grassy notes that brighten the overall taste.
- Oregano (1 teaspoon): Infuses a Mediterranean depth that pairs perfectly with the savory kielbasa.
- Mustard powder (1 teaspoon): Introduces a subtle zing, boosting complexity without overpowering.
- Smoked paprika (½ teaspoon): Enhances the smoky essence, echoing the kielbasa’s flavor beautifully.
- Onion powder (½ teaspoon): Adds a gentle onion sweetness, layering into the fresh diced onions.
- Butter (1 tablespoon): Provides creamy richness and helps create a flavorful sauté base.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): Balances the butter with a fruity undertone and prevents sticking.
- Kielbasa (14 oz., diced): Delivers hearty, smoky sausage chunks that are the star protein in the soup.
- Yellow onion (1, diced): Offers a subtly sweet crunch that softens as it cooks down.
- Carrots (1 cup, diced): Bring bright color and just the right touch of natural sweetness.
- Celery (½ cup, diced): Adds fresh, crisp notes that balance the heavier elements.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses a fragrant punch that wakes up the whole pot.
- Tomato paste (1 tablespoon): Concentrates tomato flavor and adds a slight tangy depth.
- Worcestershire sauce (1 teaspoon): Layers in a savory umami boost you won’t want to skip.
- Hot sauce (1 teaspoon): Gives just a hint of heat, perfect for enhancing the spices.
- Green cabbage (3 cups, finely chopped): Creates tender, melt-in-your-mouth vegetable goodness.
- Diced tomatoes, canned (14.5 oz., undrained): Bring juicy acidity and body to the broth.
- V8 juice or tomato sauce (8 oz.): Adds a vibrant vegetable blend that enriches the soup’s complexity.
- Chicken broth (6 cups): The soul of the soup, providing savory depth and fluidity.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings to balance and round out every spoonful.
How to Make Hearty Cabbage Soup with Kielbasa and Vegetables Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Base
Begin by heating butter and olive oil over medium heat in a large soup pot or Dutch oven. This combination creates a luxurious base for sautéing. Add the diced kielbasa, yellow onion, carrots, and celery. Let them cook gently for about 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are soft and the sausage has started releasing those smoky, juicy flavors. This step is where your kitchen starts to smell unbelievably inviting.
Step 2: Build Bold Flavor
Next up, stir in the minced garlic, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and the carefully measured herbs and spices—dried basil, parsley, oregano, mustard powder, smoked paprika, and onion powder. Keep stirring continuously for 2 minutes. This ensures everything melds perfectly, and the vibrant aroma fully develops. You’ll notice a beautiful rich base forming that sets this soup apart!
Step 3: Add the Greens and Tang
This is the moment to toss in the finely chopped green cabbage, the canned diced tomatoes with their juices, and the V8 juice or tomato sauce. Give the mixture a good stir so the cabbage begins to soften and soak up all those wonderful flavors. The tomatoes add a lovely splash of acidity and sweetness that brightens the overall dish without overpowering it.
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the pot to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to maintain a simmer and leave the lid partially cracked to allow some steam to escape. Let the soup bubble gently for about 25 minutes, giving the flavors time to marry beautifully and the vegetables to become tender. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed, then savor the anticipation of the first warm spoonful.
How to Serve Hearty Cabbage Soup with Kielbasa and Vegetables Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your soup experience, consider topping it with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness. A dollop of sour cream or a swirl of Greek yogurt adds creaminess and a cool contrast to the spice. A crack of freshly ground black pepper over the top also brings a nice finishing touch that wakes up the palate.
Side Dishes
This soup is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but pairing it with some crusty bread or garlic toast makes it absolutely irresistible. Cornbread or a warm biscuit are fantastic options to soak up every last drop. For lighter sides, a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the warmth and richness of the soup beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Hearty Cabbage Soup with Kielbasa and Vegetables Recipe in hollowed-out bread bowls, turning your meal into a cozy, edible experience. You could also ladle it over cooked rice or egg noodles for added heartiness. Or customize individual bowls with various toppings like shredded cheese, avocado slices, or crunchy fried onions—everyone loves a little DIY flair!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. Stored in the refrigerator, it will keep delicious for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen, making leftovers taste even better than the first day.
Freezing
This Hearty Cabbage Soup with Kielbasa and Vegetables Recipe freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, leaving room for expansion. Frozen soup can last for up to 3 months without losing its hearty character or flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge if frozen, then warm on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If reheating straight from frozen, do so gently over low heat, stirring often to prevent sticking and to warm evenly. Adjust seasoning before serving, as flavors may mellow during storage.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage instead of kielbasa?
Absolutely! While kielbasa gives this soup its signature smoky flavor, you can substitute with other smoked sausages like Andouille or even a smoked turkey sausage. Just make sure it’s diced similarly so it mixes well with the vegetables.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, the soup as written is naturally gluten-free since it uses simple whole ingredients and broth. However, always check labels on processed items like sausage and broth to be sure there are no hidden gluten-containing additives.
Can I make this vegetarian?
Definitely! Swap the kielbasa for hearty mushrooms or smoked tofu, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Adding a touch of smoked paprika helps mimic that smoky flavor you’d get from the sausage.
How spicy is the soup with hot sauce?
The hot sauce adds just a gentle kick that balances the richness, but it’s easily adjustable. If you prefer mild, start with half the amount and add more at the end if you like some heat.
What’s the best way to chop the cabbage for this recipe?
Finely chopping the cabbage helps it soften quicker and integrate smoothly into the soup, creating a tender texture that melds perfectly with the other veggies. Use a sharp knife or a mandoline for even, consistent pieces.
Final Thoughts
Trust me, once you make this Hearty Cabbage Soup with Kielbasa and Vegetables Recipe, it will become one of those meals you turn to again and again when you want comfort, flavor, and wholesome satisfaction all in one bowl. It’s easy to prepare, wonderfully adaptable, and packed with ingredients that feel like a warm embrace after any long day. So grab your pot and get cooking — your taste buds are about to thank you!
Print
Hearty Cabbage Soup with Kielbasa and Vegetables Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 12 cups (serves approximately 6 people)
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This hearty and flavorful cabbage soup features tender kielbasa sausage, crisp vegetables, and a blend of aromatic herbs and spices simmered to perfection. A satisfying meal perfect for cooler days or whenever you crave a comforting, nutritious homemade soup.
Ingredients
Herbs and Spices
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- 1 teaspoon mustard powder
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
Fats
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Meat
- 14 oz. kielbasa, diced
Vegetables
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 cup carrots, diced
- ½ cup celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups green cabbage, finely chopped
- 1 14.5 oz. can diced tomatoes, undrained
Other Liquids and Flavorings
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon hot sauce
- 8 oz. V8 juice (or substitute tomato sauce)
- 6 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Vegetables and Kielbasa: Heat butter and olive oil over medium heat in a large soup pot or Dutch oven. Add the diced kielbasa, onions, carrots, and celery. Cook and stir occasionally, sautéing for about 8 minutes until the vegetables soften and the kielbasa starts to brown.
- Add Garlic and Flavorings: Stir in the minced garlic, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, and the dried herbs and spices. Continue to sauté while stirring continuously for 2 minutes to let the flavors meld.
- Add Cabbage, Tomatoes, and Juice: Incorporate the finely chopped cabbage, undrained diced tomatoes, and V8 juice into the pot. Stir everything well to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the Soup: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer, leaving the lid partially cracked to allow some steam to escape. Let it simmer for 25 minutes to develop flavors.
- Season and Serve: Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious, hearty cabbage soup!
Notes
- You can substitute kielbasa with smoked sausage or any preferred sausage for a different twist.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the kielbasa and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- If you prefer a spicier soup, increase the amount of hot sauce or add red pepper flakes.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and also freeze nicely for up to 3 months.
- Adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice just before serving can brighten the soup’s flavors.
