This Collard Greens Cabbage Soup is a hearty and nutritious meal that’s perfect for any season. Made with collard greens, cabbage, bacon, and a rich broth, this soup is not only comforting but also packed with fiber and low in calories. It’s an easy, one-pot recipe that comes together in about 40 minutes, making it a quick and satisfying dinner option. The savory flavor of bacon combined with the spices and fresh greens makes this soup both delicious and wholesome.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• 1/2 head of green or savoy cabbage, chopped
• 1 lb collard greens, rinsed and chopped
• 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/2 yellow onion, chopped
• 2/3 lb smoked bacon, chopped
• 5 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tsp minced garlic
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp paprika

Directions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium-high heat until browned and crispy. If there’s too much fat, skim some off.
2. Add the chopped onion and red bell pepper to the pot, and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the chopped cabbage and collard greens, and cook for another 5 minutes, stirring regularly.
4. Add the minced garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and black pepper to the pot, and stir to combine.
5. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring everything is covered. Stir again, and bring the soup to a boil.
6. Reduce the heat and let the soup simmer for about 25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, then serve hot.

Nutrients (Per Serving)

• Calories: 300 kcal
• Fat: 14g (Saturated Fat: 4g)
• Cholesterol: 20mg
• Sodium: 1,271mg
• Protein: 12g
• Carbohydrates: 36g
• Fiber: 6g

The Nutritional Benefits of Collard Greens and Cabbage

Both collard greens and cabbage are powerhouse vegetables that pack a punch when it comes to nutrition. Collard greens, in particular, are rich in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folate and fiber. These nutrients are vital for supporting a healthy immune system, promoting bone health, and maintaining good digestion. The high fiber content in collard greens helps regulate blood sugar levels, support heart health, and improve overall gut function.

Cabbage, another key ingredient in this soup, is also highly nutritious. It is an excellent source of vitamin C, which helps boost the immune system and promotes skin health. Cabbage is also low in calories, making it a great addition to any weight-loss plan, and it contains a variety of antioxidants that help fight inflammation and oxidative stress. By combining these two nutrient-dense vegetables in this soup, you create a dish that not only tastes great but also provides numerous health benefits.

The Flavor Profile of the Soup

The beauty of this Collard Greens Cabbage Soup lies in the way the ingredients come together to create a balanced and flavorful dish. The smoky bacon adds richness to the broth and a savory depth of flavor, while the collard greens and cabbage offer a mild, slightly earthy taste that pairs perfectly with the spices. The spices, including cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper, enhance the natural flavors of the vegetables and create a warm, comforting base for the soup.

The combination of cumin and paprika provides a subtle warmth and smokiness, which complements the richness of the bacon. The cumin adds a slightly earthy, nutty flavor, while the paprika gives the soup a mild heat and sweetness. These spices help elevate the dish without overpowering the delicate flavors of the collard greens and cabbage.

The onion and red bell pepper add a touch of sweetness and freshness, rounding out the soup’s flavor profile. The garlic enhances the depth of flavor, creating a savory backbone to the dish. As the soup simmers, the vegetables soften, and the flavors meld together, creating a comforting and satisfying bowl of soup that is perfect for any season.

The Simplicity of the Recipe

What makes this Collard Greens Cabbage Soup truly appealing is its simplicity. With just a few basic ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create a meal that feels indulgent yet is packed with nutrients. The soup is made in one pot, reducing cleanup time and making it an easy weeknight dinner option. The process starts by cooking the bacon to release its fat, which is then used to sauté the onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Once the vegetables have softened, the collard greens, cabbage, and spices are added, followed by chicken broth to create the soup base.

The soup is then brought to a boil and simmered until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have developed. This simple cooking method allows the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine through, making it an easy and flavorful dish to prepare. It’s a recipe that doesn’t require any complicated techniques, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.

Customizing the Soup

One of the great things about this Collard Greens Cabbage Soup is how easily it can be customized to suit your tastes or dietary needs. If you prefer a spicier soup, you can add more cayenne pepper or hot sauce to give it an extra kick. For a heartier version, you can add additional protein, such as shredded chicken or turkey sausage, to make the soup more filling. If you’re looking for a vegetarian or vegan option, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

You can also vary the vegetables based on what you have available or what’s in season. Adding root vegetables like sweet potatoes or turnips can add an extra layer of flavor and texture to the soup. If you enjoy a creamier texture, you can blend a portion of the soup to create a thicker consistency, or you can add a splash of coconut milk or cream to make it richer.

This flexibility makes the soup a versatile option that can be easily tailored to your preferences and dietary restrictions. Whether you want to make it heartier, spicier, or creamier, this soup can be adapted to suit your tastes.

Serving Suggestions

Collard Greens Cabbage Soup is a complete meal on its own, but you can also pair it with a variety of sides to round out the meal. A slice of crusty bread, cornbread, or a side salad would complement the soup perfectly. The bread can be used to soak up the savory broth, while the salad adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.

If you want to make the meal more filling, consider serving the soup with a protein-rich side, such as grilled chicken or baked tofu. This adds additional nutrients to the meal and makes it more satisfying, especially if you’re serving it for dinner.

Meal Prep and Leftovers

This Collard Greens Cabbage Soup is an excellent option for meal prep, as it keeps well in the refrigerator for several days and can be easily reheated for a quick meal. The soup can also be frozen for longer storage, making it a convenient option for busy weeks. To freeze the soup, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or freezer bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to three months, and you can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

The soup’s flavors actually improve over time, so it’s a great make-ahead meal that can be enjoyed throughout the week. This makes it perfect for busy families or anyone looking to prepare meals in advance without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.

Conclusion

Collard Greens Cabbage Soup is a nutritious, hearty, and flavorful dish that brings together the best of earthy vegetables, smoky bacon, and aromatic spices. Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, this soup is not only comforting but also beneficial for your health. The simplicity of the recipe and its versatility make it a go-to meal for any occasion, whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, hosting guests, or meal prepping for the week.

With its rich, savory broth and a variety of ways to customize the soup, Collard Greens Cabbage Soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. The balance of flavors, from the smoky bacon to the sweet and savory vegetables, makes it a truly satisfying meal that will keep you warm and nourished. Whether enjoyed on a cold day or as a light meal year-round, this soup is a comforting and wholesome dish that you’ll want to make again and again.