How To Make Purple Cabbage Soup

Ever looked at purple cabbage and thought, “Hey, you’d make a stunning soup!” No? Just me? Well, prepare to have your mind changed because purple cabbage soup isn’t just a feast for the eyes—it’s a party for your taste buds too! Plus, there’s something weirdly satisfying about eating purple food that makes you feel like royalty… or at least like someone who has their life together enough to make purple soup.

Why This Recipe is Awesome

Let’s get real for a second—this soup is practically magical. First off, it’s PURPLE. When was the last time you served something purple at dinner that wasn’t, like, a sad eggplant? Second, it’s ridiculously nutritious without tasting like you’re eating lawn clippings. Third, it’s budget-friendly (cabbage is basically the cheapest veggie in the produce aisle). And finally, it’s so pretty your dinner guests will think you’ve suddenly become a fancy chef, when really you just threw some stuff in a pot and called it a day. #WinningAtAdulting

Ingredients You’ll Need

Grab these goodies before you start:

• 1 medium purple cabbage (the star of our show, obviously)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (the good stuff if you’re feeling fancy, the cheap stuff works too)
• 1 large onion, diced (prepare for tears—both yours and the onion’s)
• 2 carrots, chopped (for that token orange color contrast)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (or 5 if you’re keeping vampires away)
• 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth if you’re not into the whole veggie thing)
• 1 potato, cubed (for that creamy thickness without the actual cream)
• 1 apple, diced (trust me on this one)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (for that tangy zing)
• Salt and pepper to taste (duh)
• A dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream for serving (because we’re fancy like that)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep that cabbage. Quarter it, remove the core (that tough bit nobody wants), and slice it into thin strips. This is your arm workout for the day, you’re welcome.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until they’re translucent and starting to caramelize (about 5 minutes). This is where the magic begins, people.
3. Throw in the carrots and garlic. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not burned. Burned garlic is the culinary equivalent of a fashion disaster—avoid at all costs.
4. Add the cabbage and stir everything together. Watch in amazement as your pot transforms into a purple wonderland. Cook for about 5 minutes until the cabbage starts to wilt slightly.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth, then add the potato and apple. Yes, apple. Don’t question it. Bring everything to a boil.
6. Reduce to a simmer and let it cook for about 25-30 minutes until the potatoes and cabbage are tender. During this time, you can scroll through social media or stare lovingly at your purple creation.
7. Add the apple cider vinegar and give it a good stir. This is what makes the flavor pop, so don’t skip it!
8. Season with salt and pepper to your heart’s content. Remember, you’re the soup boss here.
9. Blend or don’t blend—it’s your call. For a smoother soup, use an immersion blender. For a chunkier experience, leave as is. Both are valid life choices.
10. Serve hot with a dollop of Greek yogurt or sour cream on top. Sprinkle with fresh herbs if you’re feeling extra and want to impress someone on Instagram.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Even though this soup is pretty forgiving, there are still ways to mess it up (I speak from experience):

• Overcooking the cabbage until it becomes mushier than your ex’s apology text. Keep an eye on it!
• Forgetting the apple and wondering why your soup lacks that certain je ne sais quoi. The apple brings subtle sweetness that balances the cabbage perfectly.
• Skipping the vinegar because you think it sounds weird. It’s not weird, it’s genius. The acidity brightens up the whole dish.
• Not seasoning enough. Cabbage needs salt like I need coffee in the morning—desperately and in sufficient quantities.
• Being scared of the purple. Embrace it! Though FYI, maybe don’t wear your white silk shirt while cooking this. Just saying.

Alternatives & Substitutions

Not everyone has exactly what they need when the purple cabbage soup craving strikes. Here are some swaps that won’t ruin everything:

• No purple cabbage? Green cabbage works too, but your soup will be, well, not purple. Which is kind of the whole point, but whatever, I’m not judging.
• Vegetarian/vegan? Skip the yogurt garnish or use a plant-based alternative. The soup itself is already vegan-friendly!
• No apple? Pear works surprisingly well. In a pinch, a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup can provide that sweet note.
• Want it creamier? Add a splash of coconut milk or cream at the end. Your arteries won’t thank you, but your taste buds will.
• Spice it up! Add a pinch of caraway seeds, a dash of smoked paprika, or some red pepper flakes if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Make it heartier by adding some cooked white beans or chickpeas. IMO, this turns it from a side dish into a main event.

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Will this turn my insides purple?
Nope! Despite its vibrant color, your digestive system will remain its usual… well, let’s not go there. Your soup bowl, however, might need some extra scrubbing.

Can I make this ahead of time?
Absolutely! Like most soups, this one actually tastes better the next day after all the flavors have had a chance to get to know each other and become BFFs.

How long will it keep in the fridge?
About 3-4 days in an airtight container. The color might fade slightly, but the taste will still be on point.

Can I freeze it?
You bet! Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Future you will be so grateful when dinner is just a microwave beep away.

Is this soup kid-friendly?
Depends on the kid. Some will be thrilled by the purple food. Others will look at you like you’ve served them alien guts. Worth a shot though—the color factor alone might win them over!

Will this stain my countertops/cutting board/soul?
Potentially the first two, but your soul should remain unstained. Use a plastic cutting board if you’re worried, and wipe up spills quickly!

Final Thoughts

There you have it—a soup that’s nutritious, delicious, and guaranteed to raise eyebrows (in a good way) at your next dinner party. Purple cabbage soup might sound like something from a Dr. Seuss book, but it’s a legitimate culinary creation that deserves a spot in your recipe rotation.

Now go forth and embrace the purple! Send me photos of your vibrant creations or stories of dinner guests’ surprised faces. And remember—in a world full of boring beige foods, be a bowl of purple cabbage soup: unexpected, vibrant, and impossible to ignore. Your taste buds will thank you, even if your white tablecloth might not!