Description

A comforting and nutritious cabbage soup made with fresh vegetables and smoky turkey bacon, perfect for chilly days. This hearty yet light soup combines tender cabbage, carrots, celery, and aromatic seasonings simmered in vegetable broth with a splash of apple cider vinegar for a balanced tang. Enhanced with natural herbs and spices, it’s an easy-to-prepare meal ideal for lunch, dinner, or as a starter.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

1 medium fresh cabbage, thinly sliced
2 medium carrots, diced
2 stalks celery, diced
1 medium onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

Protein

4 slices smoked turkey bacon, chopped

Liquids

6 cups vegetable broth
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar (natural)
2 tablespoons olive oil (natural)

Herbs and Spices (natural flavoring)

2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Other

1 teaspoon natural gelling agent

Instructions

Prepare the Vegetables: Finely slice the fresh cabbage, dice the carrots, celery, and onions, and mince the garlic cloves. Ensure all pieces are evenly sized for consistent cooking.
Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions and minced garlic, stirring until they become translucent and fragrant. Then add the diced carrots and celery, cooking for a few minutes until they soften.
Add the Smoked Turkey Bacon: Add the chopped smoked turkey bacon to the pot and cook until it releases its smoky, savory essence, blending with the vegetables.
Incorporate the Cabbage and Tomatoes: Stir in the sliced cabbage and diced tomatoes. Mix well and allow the cabbage to wilt slightly before proceeding.
Pour in Broth and Seasonings: Add the vegetable broth to the pot. Season generously with black pepper, thyme, bay leaves, and smoked paprika. Pour in apple cider vinegar and bring the soup to a boil. Then reduce heat to simmer gently.
Simmer Until Tender: Let the soup cook for 30 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cabbage is tender and flavors meld. Add the natural gelling agent toward the end as directed for desired consistency.
Final Taste and Serve: Remove the bay leaves, adjust the seasoning if needed, and ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish as desired and enjoy.

Notes

Use fresh vegetables for the best flavor and texture.
Do not omit the smoked turkey bacon as it adds essential smoky depth.
Simmer the soup slowly to develop harmonious flavors.
Season gradually and taste frequently to avoid over-seasoning.
Add chopped fresh parsley or dill just before serving for added freshness.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Appetizers
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl (about 1.5 cups)
Calories: 150
Sugar: 6 g
Sodium: 450 mg
Fat: 5 g
Saturated Fat: 1 g
Unsaturated Fat: 4 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 20 g
Fiber: 5 g
Protein: 6 g
Cholesterol: 10 mg

Keywords: cabbage soup, turkey bacon soup, vegetable soup, comfort food, healthy soup, gluten free soup