Of course. Here is a recipe for the classic Cabbage Soup that is central to the well-known 7-Day Cabbage Soup Diet.
It’s crucial to understand that this is not a gourmet recipe but a very simple, low-calorie soup designed for a specific, short-term diet plan.
Cabbage Soup Diet Recipe
This soup is meant to be eaten in large quantities throughout the week alongside other specific foods (like fruits, vegetables, and lean protein on designated days) to promote rapid weight loss.
Disclaimer: The Cabbage Soup Diet is a very low-calorie, restrictive fad diet intended for short-term use only (typically 7 days). It is not nutritionally balanced and should not be followed for an extended period. Please consult with a doctor or registered dietitian before starting any drastic diet plan.
Prep Time: 20 mins | Cook Time: 40 mins | Total Time: 1 hour
Yields: A large pot (about 12-16 cups)
Ingredients
· 1 large head of cabbage, chopped
· 2 large onions, chopped
· 2-3 carrots, sliced
· 2 bell peppers (any color), chopped
· 3-4 celery stalks, sliced
· 1-2 cans (14.5 oz each) diced tomatoes (undrained)
· 1 package (8 oz) mushrooms, sliced (optional)
· 6 cups (48 oz) low-sodium vegetable broth or chicken broth
· 4 cups water
· 1 tablespoon onion powder
· 1 tablespoon garlic powder
· 2 tablespoons paprika
· Salt and black pepper to taste
· Hot sauce or vinegar (like apple cider vinegar) to taste (optional)
· Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a very large stockpot, sauté the onions, carrots, celery, and bell peppers over medium-high heat with a splash of broth or water until slightly softened, about 5-7 minutes. You do not need to use oil.
- Add Liquids and Spices: Add the vegetable broth, water, diced tomatoes (with their juice), onion powder, garlic powder, and paprika. Bring to a boil.
- Simmer with Cabbage: Once boiling, add the chopped cabbage and mushrooms (if using). Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 30-40 minutes, or until all the vegetables are very tender.
- Season: Season with salt and pepper to taste. The amount of salt will depend on whether you used low-sodium broth. For a flavor boost, add a dash of hot sauce or a spoonful of vinegar at the end.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.
Important Notes & Tips for the Diet
· The Purpose: The soup is extremely low in calories and fat, and very high in fiber and water volume. This helps you feel full while consuming minimal calories.
· Flavor is Simple: This soup is not designed to be a culinary masterpiece. Its flavor is intentionally simple and vegetable-forward.
· Customize the Flavor:
· Herbs: Feel free to add other dried herbs like oregano, basil, or a bay leaf (remove before eating).
· Broth: Using a good-quality, flavorful broth is key. You can also use bouillon cubes or powder dissolved in water.
· Acidity: A splash of vinegar (balsamic, apple cider, or red wine) or lemon juice at the end of cooking can brighten the flavors significantly.
· No Oil: The recipe is deliberately made without any oil to keep the calorie count as low as possible.
· Make it a Stew: For a heartier version (if the diet plan allows), you can add a can of rinsed kidney beans or other vegetables like green beans or zucchini.
A Final Reminder: The Cabbage Soup Diet is a short-term, rapid-weight-loss plan. Any weight lost is often water weight and will likely be regained once you resume a normal diet. For sustainable weight management, focus on a balanced diet and regular exercise.