Napa Cabbage Soup Recipe

Napa cabbage soup is more than just a comforting bowl of warmth; it transforms simple ingredients into a nourishing delight. I discovered this soup on a chilly evening when I wanted something light yet satisfying.

A friend shared this recipe with me, and it soon became a kitchen staple. The crisp texture of Napa cabbage blends beautifully with savory broth and fresh herbs, creating a soup that’s both hearty and refreshing.

It’s no surprise this recipe is trending. With its low-calorie profile and rich nutrients, it’s perfect for those aiming to eat healthier without compromising on flavor.

Napa cabbage, known for its mild taste and crunch, soaks up the broth’s flavors, offering a delightful bite in every spoonful. The soup’s simplicity and the cabbage’s natural sweetness make it truly special.

Add a sprinkle of herbs or a dash of chili flakes to enhance the flavors and make it a go-to favorite.

Why I Love This Recipe?

• Perfect for Busy Days: I love how quickly this soup comes together, making it a go-to for those hectic days when I need something comforting yet healthy.
• Nutrient-Packed: With Napa cabbage’s high vitamin C content, it’s a great way to boost your immune system while enjoying a delicious meal.
• Adaptable: Whether you’re adding tofu for a vegetarian option or throwing in some leftover chicken, this soup is versatile enough to fit any dietary preference.
• Light Yet Satisfying: It’s a low-calorie dish that doesn’t leave you feeling hungry, perfect for those trying to watch their weight or just looking for a lighter meal.

What is Napa Cabbage?

Napa cabbage is a sort of green vegetable that is frequently used in Asian cooking. It is sometimes referred to as Chinese cabbage or celery cabbage.

Its long, oblong-shaped, light green leaves with white veins give it a unique appearance. Compared to traditional cabbage kinds, the leaves are softer and less thick, and they have a milder, slightly sweeter, and peppering flavor.

This cabbage is frequently used in soups, salads, stir-fries, and kimchi, among other recipes. It’s a favorite for both raw and cooked recipes due to its adaptability and flavor-absorbing properties.

Napa cabbage is also known for its nutritional benefits; it has dietary fiber, and antioxidants, and is an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K. To know more, check out our recipe for Boiled Cabbage.

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Best Napa Cabbage Soup Recipe

Delightfully comforting, this Napa cabbage soup blends fresh cabbage, aromatic veggies, and flavorful broth for a nourishing and easy meal.

3.84 from 6 votes

Print Pin Rate

Course: Appetizer, Soup

Cuisine: Asian

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes minutes

Calories: 100kcal

Author: Austin Carter

Servings: 4

Equipment

• ▢
  Cutting Board and Knife
• ▢
  Soup Pot
• ▢
  Stirring Utensil
• ▢
  Measuring Spoons and Cups
• ▢
  Vegetable Peeler optional
• ▢
  Colander optional

Ingredients

• ▢ 1 Napa cabbage sliced or chopped
• ▢ 2 carrots diced
• ▢ 2 stalks celery chopped
• ▢ 1 onion finely chopped
• ▢ 3 cloves garlic minced
• ▢ 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• ▢ 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ▢ 1 teaspoon dried thyme or preferred herbs
• ▢ Salt and pepper to taste
• ▢ Dash of lemon juice optional

Instructions

• Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add onions and garlic, sauté until fragrant and translucent.
• Toss in carrots and celery, cooking for a few minutes until they begin to soften.
• Incorporate the Napa cabbage into the pot, stirring occasionally until it wilts and reduces in volume.
• Pour in the broth and add dried thyme (or preferred herbs). Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to a simmer. Let it cook for about 15-20 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add a dash of lemon juice for a hint of brightness.
• Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors of this Napa cabbage soup!

Notes

1. Add Napa cabbage towards the end to maintain its crispness.
2. Layer flavors by starting with sautéed aromatics for a rich broth base.
3. Experiment with shredded or chunkier cuts for varied texture.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning regularly throughout cooking for balanced flavors.

Nutrition

Calories: 100kcal

Keyword how to cook napa cabbage soup, napa cabbage soup, napa cabbage soup chinese, napa cabbage soup recipe, napa cabbage soup recipes

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving)

Recipe Substitutions

Here are some substitutions you can consider for your Napa cabbage soup:

1. Cabbage Varieties: If Napa cabbage isn’t available, you can substitute it with savoy cabbage, bok choy, or regular green cabbage. Each will impart its unique flavor profile.
2. Aromatics: Onions and garlic can be substituted with leeks or shallots for a slightly different flavor.
3. Broth: Use vegetable broth as a substitute for chicken broth to keep the soup vegetarian or vegan-friendly. For a richer taste, consider using mushroom broth.
4. Herbs: Experiment with different herbs based on availability and preference. Instead of thyme, try using rosemary, parsley, or a pinch of dried oregano.
5. Proteins: Instead of chicken, tofu, or beans, you can use cooked lentils, chickpeas, or tempeh for added protein content.
6. Spices: If you prefer different spices, consider substituting thyme with cumin, coriander, or a blend of your choice for a unique flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions

1. Stuffed Turkey Breast
2. Tuna Steaks
3. Potato Gnocchi
4. Chicken Spaghetti