Hearty Homestyle Cabbage & Potato Soup

A comforting, budget-friendly soup with tender cabbage, creamy potatoes, and smoky bacon—just like grandma made!

Ingredients

For the Soup Base:

4 slices bacon, chopped (or 2 tbsp butter for vegetarian)
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 small green cabbage (about 4 cups shredded)
3 medium potatoes, peeled & diced (Yukon Gold or Russet)
6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 bay leaf
1 tsp caraway seeds (optional, adds depth)
1 tsp smoked paprika (or regular paprika)
Salt & black pepper to taste

For Extra Heartiness (Optional):

1 can white beans, drained (like cannellini)
1 cup diced ham or smoked sausage
2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (brightens flavor)
Fresh dill or parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Crisp the Bacon

In a large pot, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon, leaving fat in the pot. (Skip for vegetarian—use butter instead.)

2. Sauté the Veggies

Add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook 5 mins until softened.
Stir in garlic, smoked paprika, and caraway seeds. Cook 1 minute until fragrant.

3. Simmer the Soup

Add cabbage, potatoes, broth, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
Reduce heat, cover, and simmer 20-25 mins until potatoes are tender.
Stir in white beans or ham (if using) and heat through.

4. Finish & Serve

Remove bay leaf. Adjust seasoning—add a splash of vinegar for brightness.
Top with crispy bacon, fresh herbs, and a dollop of sour cream (optional).

Serving Suggestions

🍞 With Bread: Crusty rye or Irish soda bread for dipping.
🧀 Cheesy Twist: Sprinkle with grated cheddar or Parmesan.
🌶 Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Why This Soup Works

✅ Budget-Friendly: Uses pantry staples.
✅ Meal-Prep Hero: Tastes even better the next day!
✅ Customizable: Add sausage, beans, or swap sweet potatoes for regular.

Warming, nourishing, and packed with old-world flavor!

Want a slow cooker version or German-inspired sauerkraut twist? 😊