This gentle, nourishing vegetable soup is like medicine for your digestive system! Packed with easily digestible vegetables and a rich, flavorful broth, this comforting soup helps calm upset stomachs while providing essential nutrients. The combination of tender vegetables and aromatic herbs creates a deeply satisfying meal that’s both healing and delicious. Perfect for when you need something light yet nourishing, this soup will become your go-to comfort food.
Ingredients
- ½ medium white cabbage (about 500g / 1.1 lbs), sliced
- 1 liter / 34 fl oz / 4¼ cups chicken or vegetable stock
- 1 large red bell pepper (200g / 7 oz), diced
- 1-2 large carrots (150g / 5.3 oz), chopped
- 1 medium onion (150g / 5.3 oz), finely chopped
- 2-3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 bunch fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
- Fresh bread for serving
Instructions
- Sauté the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add finely chopped onion and cook for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Build the base: Add diced bell pepper and chopped carrots. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add tomato paste: Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to develop deeper flavor.
- Add cabbage and seasonings: Add sliced cabbage, dried Italian herbs, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine all vegetables.
- Add liquid: Pour in chicken or vegetable stock, ensuring vegetables are covered. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Simmer until tender: Reduce heat to low, cover with lid, and simmer gently for 20-25 minutes until all vegetables are soft and tender.
- Finish and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning. Stir in fresh chopped parsley just before serving. Ladle into bowls and serve with fresh bread or a dollop of sour cream if desired.
Time & Servings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 4-6 bowls
- Storage: Refrigerate up to 4 days, freeze up to 3 months
Nutrition Information (per serving)
- Calories: 95
- Carbs: 12g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 4g
- Fat: 4g
- Vitamin A: 85% DV
- Vitamin C: 120% DV
- Folate: 25% DV
Why This Recipe Works
This healing vegetable soup works like medicine for your digestive system because it combines gentle, easily digestible vegetables with a nourishing broth that supports gut health. Cabbage contains natural compounds that help heal the stomach lining and reduce inflammation, while carrots provide beta-carotene and soluble fiber that soothes the digestive tract. The slow-cooking method breaks down tough vegetable fibers, making nutrients more bioavailable and easier for sensitive stomachs to process. Bell peppers add vitamin C to support immune function, while onions and garlic provide prebiotics that nourish beneficial gut bacteria. The warm, liquid format helps with hydration and provides electrolytes lost during digestive upset. This soup is naturally low in fat and free from common irritants, making it ideal for those recovering from illness or dealing with digestive sensitivities. The combination of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals supports overall healing while the comforting warmth helps relax the digestive system.