Chinese Cabbage Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with vitamins and antioxidants from cabbage and broth.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal effort.
• Versatile: Can be customized with different proteins or vegetables.
• Light Yet Satisfying: Perfect for a warm, comforting meal without being heavy.
• Budget-Friendly: Uses simple, affordable ingredients.

Ingredients

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

• Napa cabbage (or green cabbage)
• Chicken or vegetable broth
• Garlic, minced
• Ginger, minced
• Soy sauce
• Sesame oil
• White pepper
• Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
• Firm tofu, sliced (optional)
• Cooked chicken or shrimp (optional)

Directions

1. Prepare the ingredients: Chop the Napa cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Mince garlic and ginger.
2. Sauté aromatics: In a large pot, heat sesame oil over medium heat. Add garlic and ginger, stirring until fragrant.
3. Add broth: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring to a gentle boil.
4. Cook the cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage and let it simmer for about 5-7 minutes until tender.
5. Season the soup: Stir in soy sauce, white pepper, and any additional seasonings to taste.
6. Add protein (optional): If using tofu, chicken, or shrimp, add it now and let it heat through.
7. Serve: Garnish with chopped green onions and enjoy hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add chili flakes or a dash of Sriracha for heat.
• Protein Boost: Include sliced pork, beef, or eggs for extra protein.
• Vegetarian/Vegan: Use vegetable broth and add mushrooms for extra depth.
• Noodle Addition: Toss in glass noodles or rice noodles for a heartier dish.
• Miso Flavor: Stir in a spoonful of miso paste for a rich umami taste.

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freeze: Can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat or microwave in 1-minute intervals until heated through.

FAQs

Can I use regular green cabbage instead of Napa cabbage?

Yes! Green cabbage works well, though it takes slightly longer to soften.

What broth is best for this soup?

Chicken broth adds richness, while vegetable broth keeps it light and vegan-friendly.

Can I make this soup spicy?

Yes, add chili oil, Sriracha, or red pepper flakes for extra heat.

What other vegetables can I add?

Mushrooms, carrots, bok choy, or bamboo shoots are great additions.

How can I make this a full meal?

Add noodles and protein like chicken, shrimp, or tofu to make it more filling.

Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?

Yes, but for the best texture, add fresh cabbage when reheating.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce to make it gluten-free.

Can I use powdered ginger instead of fresh?

Fresh ginger is recommended for the best flavor, but powdered can work in a pinch.

How do I keep the cabbage from getting too soft?

Add it at the end and simmer just until tender, not mushy.

What can I serve with this soup?

Pair it with steamed rice, dumplings, or a simple stir-fry for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Chinese Cabbage Soup is a simple yet delicious dish that’s both nourishing and easy to prepare. Whether enjoyed as a light starter or a main dish with added protein, this soup is a go-to for cozy, healthy meals. Try it today and enjoy a comforting bowl of goodness!