This Hearty Vegetable Soup is a nourishing and flavorful dish made with a variety of fresh vegetables, aromatic spices, and a savory broth. Perfect for chilly days, it’s packed with goodness from cabbage, carrots, celery, and onions, along with optional spices like cayenne pepper for an extra kick. This comforting soup is vegan-friendly, customizable, and great for meal prep.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This vegetable soup is both healthy and delicious. It’s packed with a rainbow of vegetables that provide fiber, vitamins, and minerals. The combination of spices—turmeric and cumin—adds warmth and depth, while the vegetable or chicken broth creates a rich, savory base. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or add some protein for an even heartier meal. Plus, it’s easy to make, one-pot, and perfect for a cozy dinner.

Hearty Vegetable Soup

Ingredients

Main Vegetables:

1 medium head of cabbage (about 6 cups chopped)
1 large onion, chopped
3 medium carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 bell pepper, diced (optional for added sweetness)

Aromatics & Base:

1 tablespoon olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)

Spices & Seasonings:

1 teaspoon ground turmeric
1 teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon black pepper
½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt to taste
Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Vegetables: Start by chopping the cabbage, onion, carrots, celery, and bell pepper (if using). Set them aside.
Sauté the Aromatics: In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Add the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and bell pepper to the pot. Stir to combine and cook for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables begin to soften.
Add the Cabbage: Stir in the chopped cabbage and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the cabbage begins to wilt down.
Add the Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
Season the Soup: Add the turmeric, cumin, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), and salt to taste. Stir everything together and bring the soup to a simmer.
Simmer the Soup: Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for 25-30 minutes, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded together. If the soup becomes too thick, you can add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings, adding more salt, pepper, or cayenne pepper if desired.
Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro. Serve hot with crusty bread or your favorite side.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 6-8 people.

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 35-40 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Add Protein: For a heartier soup, add cooked chicken, beans, or lentils for extra protein.
Spicy Version: If you like a spicy kick, increase the amount of cayenne pepper or add diced jalapeños when sautéing the vegetables.
Swap Vegetables: Feel free to swap or add other vegetables such as zucchini, potatoes, or green beans depending on your preference or what you have on hand.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or bay leaves can be added during simmering for added depth of flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors improve over time, making it even tastier the next day!
Freezing: This soup freezes well. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer.
Reheating: Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through. Add more broth or water if it has thickened too much.

FAQs

Can I use frozen vegetables?

Yes, you can substitute frozen vegetables for fresh ones. If using frozen vegetables, add them after the broth and simmer for 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! After sautéing the garlic and vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker, add the broth and seasonings, and cook on low for 4-6 hours or until the vegetables are tender.

Can I make this soup spicier?

Yes, feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper, or add diced fresh chili peppers for more heat.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes! This soup actually tastes even better after the flavors have had time to meld. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge for 2-3 days. Just reheat before serving.

Conclusion

This Hearty Vegetable Soup is a wholesome and comforting dish, full of fresh, vibrant vegetables and flavorful spices. It’s a perfect way to warm up on a chilly day, and it’s packed with nutrients. Whether you enjoy it as a light lunch or as part of a cozy dinner, this soup will quickly become a go-to recipe in your kitchen. It’s easy, customizable, and absolutely delicious!

Chef MARTHA