Vegan cabbage soup is a hearty yet healthy, nourishing, comforting, low-budget meal of simple, wholesome ingredients using a stove, Instant Pot, or crockpot + it’s gluten-free, dairy-free, whole30, low carb (ish), vegetarian, and vegan!
In a large pot over medium high heat, heat the oil. Add the carrots, onion, and celery. Mix regularly and cook for 5 minutes.
Add the garlic, salt, and paprika. Cook for 1 minute, mixing regularly.
Add the wine vinegar if using, mix well, and add the diced tomatoes. Mix and cook for 2 minutes.
Add the water, bullion cubes, cabbage, and thyme. Mix well, cover with a lid, and bring to a boil. Once it starts to boil, lower the heat to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes.
Once the 20 minutes have passed, taste, and adjust the salt levels to taste.
Add the juice of one lemon, mix, serve, and garnish with parsley and crushed red pepper flakes.
Notes
Pre-sauté the veg: This not only helps soften them, but if you allow them to become lightly caramelized, you’ll achieve a deeper, more complex flavor.
To adjust the consistency: Add more broth for a thinner soup. If it’s too thin, leave it to simmer and reduce further or turn to a thickener like cornstarch.
Let it rest: Even just 10 minutes off-heat can help, but homemade cabbage soup tastes even better on day two when the flavors have a chance to meld.