Chickpea Cabbage Soup Recipe

Hearty chickpea cabbage soup simmered with veggies, herbs, and spices—nutritious, cozy, and perfect for healthy lunches or comforting weeknight dinners.

Ingredients You’ll Need

What makes Chickpea Cabbage Soup so special is how a few pantry staples and humble veggies join forces to create magical flavors. Every ingredient deserves its spot in the pot, lending unique taste, texture, and aromas to the finished soup.

• Olive oil: Enhances the soup’s richness and helps sauté those essential aromatics for a deep flavor base.
• Yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth, creating a savory foundation for the soup.
• Garlic: Infuses each bite with warm, earthy flavor—don’t hold back on the cloves!
• Ground cumin: Contributes warmth and a slightly smoky edge, boosting the soup’s complexity.
• Smoked paprika: Delivers subtle smokiness and a gorgeous reddish hue.
• Red pepper flakes: Brings a gentle kick—adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.
• Ground coriander: Offers subtle citrusy notes that brighten the overall profile.
• Turmeric: Not only lends its beautiful golden color but also an earthy undertone.
• Black pepper: Enhances the warmth and gives a slight bite to the broth.
• Salt: Essential for bringing out all the nuanced flavors—taste as you go!
• Green cabbage: Adds satisfying bulk, sweetens as it simmers, and delivers a lovely bite.
• Canned chickpeas: Packed with protein, these little gems add creaminess and turn the soup into a meal.
• Canned diced tomatoes: Their acidity rounds everything out and makes the broth irresistibly zesty.
• Vegetable broth: The flavor backbone of this soup, use a good-quality broth for best results.
• Lemon juice: A splash right at the end brings the soup alive and unites all the flavors.
• Fresh parsley (optional): A sprinkle before serving adds color and a pop of freshness.

How to Make Chickpea Cabbage Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and let it cook until softened, about five minutes. This is your chance to build a beautiful flavor base—take your time and enjoy the irresistible aroma as the onions turn gentle and sweet.

Step 2: Toast the Spices

Next comes the magic: stir in the garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, red pepper flakes, coriander, turmeric, black pepper, and salt. Sauté this fragrant mixture for one or two minutes. The spices will bloom and fill your kitchen with warmth, hinting at the delicious Chickpea Cabbage Soup to come.

Step 3: Add Cabbage and Chickpeas

Now it’s time for the stars of the show—add the chopped cabbage and chickpeas. Stir well so every piece gets a loving coating of those stunning spices. You’ll notice the cabbage shrinking down and the chickpeas settling right in.

Step 4: Pour in Tomatoes and Broth

Add the diced tomatoes (juices and all) and vegetable broth. Give everything a good stir and bring to a boil. Once bubbling, lower the heat and let the soup simmer gently for 25 to 30 minutes. The cabbage will turn silky and the flavors will come together beautifully for that classic Chickpea Cabbage Soup taste.

Step 5: Finish with Lemon and Taste

After the simmer, finish your masterpiece with a tablespoon of lemon juice. Taste, and add more salt or pepper if needed—the brightness from the lemon really ties it all together. Dish up while hot and, if you like, garnish with a flurry of fresh parsley.

How to Serve Chickpea Cabbage Soup

Garnishes

For a finishing touch, sprinkle fresh parsley over each steaming bowl of Chickpea Cabbage Soup. The green flecks are not just beautiful, they add a hint of garden-fresh flavor. For a tiny upgrade, try a drizzle of good extra-virgin olive oil or a few crunchy croutons right before serving.

Side Dishes

This soup is so satisfying, it can easily be a meal on its own—but it pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty bread, a warm pita, or a simple green salad. If you’re feeling extra cozy, add a grilled cheese sandwich or roasted potatoes alongside for a heartier plate.

Creative Ways to Present

Chickpea Cabbage Soup shines in rustic bowls with plenty of chunky vegetables on display. Try serving it in a bread bowl for a fun twist, or ladle it over steamed rice or quinoa if you want something even more filling. For gatherings, offer toppings buffet-style so everyone can garnish their bowl just the way they like.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Have extra Chickpea Cabbage Soup? Lucky you! Let the soup cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep happily in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, and some say it tastes even better after the flavors have had time to mingle overnight.

Freezing

This soup freezes like a charm. Once cool, simply pour individual portions into freezer-safe containers, leaving a little room for expansion. It will keep well for about 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results.

Reheating

Warm the soup gently in a saucepan over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it’s thickened up overnight. For a quick fix, microwave leftovers in a covered bowl, stopping to stir halfway through. Top again with fresh parsley to perk up the flavors.

FAQs

Can I use savoy or red cabbage instead of green?

Absolutely! Savoy cabbage will give a softer texture, while red cabbage makes the soup even more colorful. Just keep in mind the flavor and cook time may shift slightly, but your Chickpea Cabbage Soup will still be delightful.

Is there a way to make Chickpea Cabbage Soup spicier?

Yes! Increase the red pepper flakes or toss in a diced hot chili for more fire. You can also finish with a swirl of hot sauce for a burst of heat right before serving.

What protein options can I use besides chickpeas?

If you want to switch things up, try white beans, lentils, or even cubes of tofu in place of chickpeas. Each brings its own texture, but the soup will remain hearty and satisfying.

Can I make this soup in advance for meal prep?

Certainly! Chickpea Cabbage Soup is excellent for meal prepping, as the flavors deepen and get even richer after sitting. Portion into containers and store in the fridge or freezer for easy meals all week long.

How can I add more vegetables to this soup?

Feel free to add carrots, celery, spinach, or kale along with the cabbage. Just chop them into bite-sized pieces and add in step 3. The more, the merrier—your Chickpea Cabbage Soup will be even more nourishing!

Final Thoughts

There’s something endlessly comforting about sharing a pot of Chickpea Cabbage Soup with loved ones. It’s wholesome, soul-warming, and packed with flavors that will have everyone asking for seconds. Give this recipe a try—your kitchen will smell amazing, and your taste buds will thank you!

Print