If you’re looking for a healthy, low-calorie recipe that’s filling, nourishing, and perfect for jump-starting your weight loss journey, the best cabbage soup diet recipe might be exactly what you need. Known for being a popular “detox” soup, this recipe has been around for decades because it’s budget-friendly, easy to prepare, and packed with vegetables.
In this guide, I’ll share the classic cabbage soup diet recipe, step-by-step instructions, storage tips, and variations so you can enjoy it whether you’re following the cabbage soup diet plan or simply want a comforting bowl of veggie goodness.
What Is the Cabbage Soup Diet?
The cabbage soup diet is a short-term, low-calorie eating plan designed to help you lose weight quickly, typically over the course of seven days. The foundation of the diet is eating unlimited amounts of cabbage soup, combined with specific food guidelines for each day.
While it’s not meant to be a long-term solution, many people use it as a “reset” to feel lighter, reduce bloating, and increase their intake of vegetables. At the heart of this plan is the best cabbage soup diet recipe—a low-fat, high-fiber soup that keeps you full while staying low in calories.
Why This Is the Best Cabbage Soup Diet Recipe
There are many versions of cabbage soup out there, but this one stands out for a few reasons:
- Flavorful: With herbs, garlic, and spices, it’s not bland like some diet soups.
- Nutritious: Loaded with vitamin-rich vegetables like carrots, celery, peppers, and cabbage.
- Flexible: Can be customized with different seasonings or extra veggies.
- Meal-Prep Friendly: Makes a large batch that reheats well for the week.
Ingredients for the Best Cabbage Soup Diet Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to make a large pot of this hearty soup:
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped
- 2 large onions, diced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 green bell peppers, chopped
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 6 cups low-sodium vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (optional, for sautéing)
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon oregano
- ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for spice)
- Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prep the Vegetables
Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces and dice the rest of the vegetables. Keep everything roughly the same size so the soup cooks evenly.
2. Sauté the Base
In a large stockpot, heat olive oil (if using) over medium heat. Add onions, celery, carrots, and peppers. Cook for 5–7 minutes until slightly softened. Add garlic and cook another minute.
3. Add the Cabbage and Tomatoes
Stir in the chopped cabbage, then pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice. Season with salt, pepper, oregano, paprika, and chili flakes.
4. Pour in Broth and Simmer
Add the vegetable broth and bring the soup to a boil. Reduce heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, until the cabbage is tender.
5. Adjust and Serve
Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro before serving.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
(Approximate, based on 1 cup serving)
- Calories: 90
- Protein: 3g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 2g
- Fiber: 4g
- Vitamin C: 40% DV
This low-calorie, nutrient-rich profile is what makes it the best cabbage soup diet recipe for weight loss.
Tips for Making the Best Cabbage Soup
- Don’t overcook: Simmer just until the vegetables are tender, not mushy.
- Add spice: A dash of cayenne, hot sauce, or chili powder gives it a metabolism-boosting kick.
- Use fresh herbs: Basil, thyme, or dill can brighten up the soup.
- Boost protein: If you’re not strictly following the cabbage soup diet, add beans, lentils, or shredded chicken.
- Meal prep: Store in airtight containers for up to 5 days in the fridge or freeze for 2–3 months.
Variations of the Cabbage Soup Diet Recipe
- Italian-Style Cabbage Soup – Add zucchini, Italian seasoning, and top with fresh basil.
- Spicy Cabbage Soup – Stir in jalapeños, cayenne, or hot sauce.
- Protein-Packed Cabbage Soup – Add lean ground turkey or white beans for a more filling version.
- Detox Green Cabbage Soup – Mix in kale, spinach, or broccoli for extra greens.
- Asian-Inspired Cabbage Soup – Use soy sauce, ginger, and mushrooms for a savory twist.
How to Store and Reheat
- Refrigerator: Cool the soup and store in sealed containers for up to 5 days.
- Freezer: Divide into single-serving portions and freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave until hot.
This makes it easy to always have a healthy option ready, especially if you’re sticking to the cabbage soup diet plan.
Is the Cabbage Soup Diet Right for You?
While the cabbage soup diet can help you drop pounds quickly, it’s not designed for long-term weight loss. It’s very low in calories and may lack enough protein or healthy fats for extended use.
That being said, making the best cabbage soup diet recipe part of your weekly meal rotation is an excellent way to eat more vegetables and stay full without extra calories. Pairing this soup with lean protein, whole grains, and healthy fats can help you achieve more sustainable results.
Final Thoughts
The best cabbage soup diet recipe is more than just a fad diet food—it’s a hearty, nourishing, and budget-friendly meal you can enjoy anytime. Whether you’re doing the cabbage soup diet for a quick reset or simply want a low-calorie soup full of flavor, this recipe delivers.
Try making a big pot at the start of the week, and you’ll have a satisfying, ready-to-eat meal whenever hunger strikes. It’s proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be complicated or bland.