If you’re looking for a light yet satisfying way to give your body a reset, I’ve got just the thing for you. This Detox Cabbage Soup for Weight Loss Recipe is one I’ve made countless times, especially when I want something comforting that also supports my wellness goals. I absolutely love how fresh and vibrant the flavors turn out, plus the soup practically cooks itself! Stick with me, and I’ll walk you through the secrets of making this fan-freaking-tastic detox soup in no time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple and Nutritious: The veggies blend perfectly to give you a flavorful, low-calorie meal that supports weight loss.
- Flexible Cooking Methods: You can make it on the stove or in an Instant Pot, making it great for busy days.
- Detox Benefits: Cabbage helps flush out toxins while the herbs boost digestion and metabolism.
- Family-Friendly: My family goes crazy for this soup and even my picky eaters ask for seconds!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Detox Cabbage Soup for Weight Loss Recipe brings something special to the pot, from cleansing benefits to rich flavor. I always pick fresh produce, especially crisp cabbage and ripe tomatoes, to get that vibrant soup taste that keeps you coming back for more.
- Olive oil: Adds a bit of healthy fat and helps to sauté the aromatics without overpowering the dish.
- Garlic: Fresh, finely chopped garlic boosts flavor and supports your immune system.
- Ginger: Gives the soup a lively zing and helps with digestion.
- Onion: Sweetens the base and blends well with other veggies when cooked.
- Celery: Adds a nice crunch and natural sodium for flavor without added salt.
- Carrots: Bring natural sweetness and important nutrients like beta-carotene.
- Cabbage: The star of the show, known for its detoxifying qualities and fiber.
- Capsicum (Bell Pepper): Adds color and a mild peppery flavor to keep the soup interesting.
- Tomatoes: Contribute acidity and richness to balance out the sweetness of the other vegetables.
- Salt: Enhances all the savory flavors; adjust to taste to keep it healthy.
- Vegetable Stock: Provides a flavorful liquid base; homemade or low-sodium store-bought work great.
- Dried Oregano: Offers a warm, peppery herbal note that deepens the flavor.
- Fresh Basil leaves: Torn fresh basil adds brightness and aromatic complexity.
- Red Chilli flakes: Gives the soup just the right kick without overwhelming heat.
- Pepper: Freshly ground to taste, it rounds out the flavor profile perfectly.
- Parsley: Chopped and sprinkled on top for a fresh, vibrant finish before serving.
Variations
One of the things I adore about this Detox Cabbage Soup for Weight Loss Recipe is how easy it is to customize. You can tailor it to your tastes or whatever you have on hand, so you never get bored.
- Add protein: When I want something heartier, I toss in ground chicken or even cracked eggs to make it more filling without losing the detox element.
- Spicy twist: If you like heat, try adding a splash of hot sauce or more chilli flakes — I did this once during a cold snap, and it was perfectly warming.
- Seasonal veggies: Feel free to swap in seasonal vegetables like zucchini or kale for extra nutrients and fun twists.
- Smooth soup: Blend it smooth after cooking for a cozy, velvety texture that’s great for chilly evenings.
How to Make Detox Cabbage Soup for Weight Loss Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat, then add the finely chopped ginger and garlic. I like to fry these gently for about 30 seconds to bring out their fragrance without burning. Next, throw in the chopped onions and continue cooking for another 30 seconds until they start to soften. This little step is key—the aroma tells me the soup is off to a great start!
Step 2: Add the Vegetables
Now it’s time for the celery, carrots, cabbage, and capsicum. Add them all to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, for 3 to 4 minutes. This softens the vegetables just enough while keeping their lovely texture. Be patient and don’t rush—this builds layers of flavor that make the soup taste homemade and hearty.
Step 3: Simmer with Tomatoes and Stock
Pour in the diced tomatoes, sprinkle in the salt, and add the vegetable stock. Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 20 minutes. This slow simmer allows all those gorgeous veggies to meld, creating a nourishing and comforting broth. You’ll notice the kitchen fills with such a pleasant, fresh aroma — that’s when you know you’re doing it right.
Step 4: Add Herbs and Spices
Finally, stir in the dried oregano, torn fresh basil leaves, red chilli flakes, and freshly ground pepper. These herbs really lift the soup from simple to unforgettable. Serve it hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. This final touch makes the soup feel like a true comfort meal.
Instant Pot Version
If you’re short on time or just love the convenience of your Instant Pot, this version is for you. Turn on the sauté mode and heat the olive oil before adding the ginger and garlic. After sautéing for about 30 seconds each, add all the veggies, tomatoes, salt, and stock. Lock the lid, seal the valve, and set high pressure for 2 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before manually releasing. Then, stir in the herbs and spices just like in the stovetop version. Easy, fast, and delicious!
Pro Tips for Making Detox Cabbage Soup for Weight Loss Recipe
- Fresh is Best: Use fresh herbs and vegetables whenever possible—it makes a huge difference in flavor and nutrition.
- Don’t Overcook Veggies: Keep an eye on the simmer time so the cabbage stays tender but not mushy, preserving texture and nutrients.
- Season Gradually: Add salt and spices in stages and taste as you go, so you don’t accidentally oversalt or overpower the soup.
- Storage Hack: Cool the soup completely before refrigerating in airtight containers to keep flavors fresh for up to a week.
How to Serve Detox Cabbage Soup for Weight Loss Recipe
Garnishes
I always top my bowl with a good handful of fresh chopped parsley because it adds a vibrant color and a fresh herbal bite. Sometimes I sprinkle a little extra chilli flakes or a drizzle of good olive oil for richness. If I’m feeling fancy, a squeeze of lemon juice brightens it up beautifully, especially on warmer days.
Side Dishes
To make this soup a complete meal, I like pairing it with a slice of crusty whole-grain bread or a simple side salad. It complements the fresh flavors without overshadowing the lightness of the soup. For extra protein, some grilled chicken or a hard-boiled egg on the side works wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For special occasions, I love serving this Detox Cabbage Soup for Weight Loss Recipe in cute mini soup tureens or clear glass bowls so you can admire the beautiful mix of veggies. If you’re serving a crowd, consider topping each bowl with a dollop of Greek yogurt or cashew cream for a creamy contrast. It’s always a hit!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
I usually let leftover soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It keeps perfectly in the fridge for up to a week, which is super convenient for quick lunches or easy dinners throughout the week. Just remember to give it a good stir before reheating.
Freezing
This soup freezes really well! I portion it out into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. When I’m ready to enjoy it, I thaw overnight in the fridge. It’s a huge time-saver on busy days or when I want a healthy option without cooking.
Reheating
I heat leftover soup gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring now and then to prevent sticking and ensure even warmth. If it seems a bit thick after storage, I add a splash of water or vegetable stock to loosen it up. Microwave reheating works too—just cover and heat in short bursts, stirring in between.
FAQs
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Can this Detox Cabbage Soup for Weight Loss Recipe help me lose weight?
Yes! This soup is low in calories but high in fiber and nutrients, which helps you feel full longer and supports digestion, making it a great addition to a weight loss plan. Remember, it’s best combined with balanced meals and regular exercise.
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Can I add meat or protein to this soup?
Absolutely! While the original recipe is vegetarian and light, you can add ground chicken, turkey, or even eggs to make it more filling. Just brown your protein choice first or add cooked versions toward the end of cooking.
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Is the soup suitable for meal prep?
Definitely! This soup stores beautifully in the fridge for up to a week and freezes well, making it ideal for batch cooking. Just portion it out so you have ready-to-go meals throughout the week.
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How spicy is the soup, and can I adjust the heat?
The soup has a gentle kick from the red chilli flakes but isn’t overly spicy. You can easily reduce or increase the chilli flakes to suit your personal heat tolerance.
Final Thoughts
I used to struggle finding tasty, easy detox recipes that didn’t leave me feeling hungry or bored, but this Detox Cabbage Soup for Weight Loss Recipe changed everything for me. It’s comforting, nourishing, and surprisingly delicious — exactly what you want when you’re trying to take good care of yourself. I truly recommend giving it a try; I think you’ll be as hooked as I am!
Print
Detox Cabbage Soup for Weight Loss Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: International
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This Detox Cabbage Soup is a nourishing and flavorful recipe designed to help cleanse your body while delighting your taste buds. Packed with fresh vegetables like cabbage, celery, carrots, and tomatoes, and infused with aromatic herbs and spices, this soup supports digestion and detoxification. It can be prepared easily on the stovetop or in an Instant Pot, making it a convenient and wholesome addition to your detox or healthy eating routine.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1/2 cup Onion, chopped
- 1/2 cup Celery, diced
- 1/4 cup Carrots, chopped
- 1.5 cups Cabbage, chopped
- 1/4 cup Capsicum, diced
- 1 cup Tomatoes, diced
Herbs and Spices
- 1 teaspoon Garlic, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon Ginger, finely chopped
- 1 1/2 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
- 8-10 Fresh Basil leaves, roughly torn
- 1 teaspoon Red Chilli flakes
- 1 teaspoon Pepper
- Parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Liquids and Oils
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil
- 6 cups Vegetable Stock
Instructions
- Prepare the base: Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add finely chopped ginger and garlic, frying them gently for about half a minute until fragrant, but not browned.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add the chopped onions to the pan and fry for another half a minute. Then add the diced celery, chopped carrots, cabbage, and diced capsicum. Cook everything together for 3 to 4 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add tomatoes and stock: Stir in the diced tomatoes and salt, then pour in the vegetable stock. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 20 minutes. This slow simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Season the soup: Add dried oregano, torn basil leaves, red chili flakes, and freshly ground pepper. Mix well to combine all the seasonings evenly throughout the soup.
- Garnish and serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve immediately for the best taste and nutritional benefits.
- Instant Pot version – sauté: Turn on the Instant Pot’s sauté mode, heat olive oil, and add ginger and garlic. Sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add vegetables and seasoning to Instant Pot: Add the onions, celery, carrots, cabbage, capsicum, tomatoes, salt, and vegetable stock to the Instant Pot. Stir to combine.
- Pressure cook: Lock the lid in place and ensure the valve is set to sealing mode. Cook on high pressure for 2 minutes.
- Release pressure: Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then carefully release any remaining pressure manually.
- Add herbs and serve: Open the lid and stir in dried oregano, basil leaves, chili flakes, and pepper. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley.
- Optional serving suggestion: You can enjoy the soup chunky as is, or allow it to cool slightly and blend it into a smooth, velvety consistency before serving for a comforting and creamy texture.
Notes
- Cabbage is known for its diuretic properties, aiding in the elimination of excess fluids and toxins from the body, and also supports liver and colon cleansing.
- You may customize this soup by adding other vegetables or protein sources such as eggs, ground chicken, or lamb.
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. Always reheat thoroughly before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately 250 ml)
- Calories: 90
- Sugar: 5 g
- Sodium: 700 mg
- Fat: 3.5 g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 13 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 3 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg