Let me start off by saying… this isn’t your average pot of soup! If you have kept up with my blog, you have probably noticed that I am always looking for ways to improve my health and maintain my weight! Life is hectic and when you have kids, a significant other, work, gym time and so many other hobbies and obstacles every day… putting YOU first, is most likely not on the top of your list!
I remember reading how cabbage soup was great for weight loss and how it has been used for the “Miracle diet”! I never thought that would be practical on a long term basis… I lack the self-discipline to maintain that for 7-10 days! However, using it as a tasty lunch/ Dinner meal or side dish caught my attention! I love cabbage!
SQUIRREL!
As I was researching different ideas and variations, I decided to create my own. I try to watch my sodium intake for water retention and overall health reasons… so I always want to know what is in the spices I add to my homemade soups, so it’s easier to experience and create my very own recipes. I was not interested in a lot of both, so I tend to not add as much liquid or extra water. I like it drained served as a side dish with another meal, or just a large bowl of soup with minimal broth.
Like many of my other recipes, this one is so versatile… you can add different spices, meat, poultry… it really allows you endless opportunities!
Ingredients:
- ½ Head of Cabbage Chopped
- 2 T Olive Oil
- ½ White Onion Chopped
- 3 Sticks of Celery Diced
- 3 Carrots Diced
- 32oz Low Sodium Chicken Broth
- 1 C Water (Optional)
- 1 Can Diced Tomatoes 14.5oz (Do not drain)
- 1 T Minced Garlic
- 1 t Red pepper flakes
- 1 t Italian Seasoning (Optional)
- Dash of salt and pepper
Step 1: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat adding the celery, onions and carrots. Sauté for about 20 minutes until slightly tender and add the minced garlic. Sauté for about a minute- until you can smell the garlic.
Step 2: Add the chicken broth, water, diced tomatoes, cabbage and spices.
Step 3: Cook on medium heat until the cabbage is tender.
Mangia!
Tips and Tricks:
- Try adding bell peppers and different spices.
- When I serve as strained side dish, I serve it with spicy mustard or Sriracha!
Secret Squirrel Moment 