The Best Gut-Healthy Soup

The Best Gut-Healthy Soup is a warm bowl of comfort that nourishes your body and soul. This garlicky cabbage soup not only delights the senses with its aromatic flavors but also supports gut health, making it perfect for cozy dinners or meal prep. Enjoy the blend of tender cabbage and rich broth that makes this dish stand out as a healing and hearty option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: In just 35 minutes, you can have a delicious soup ready to enjoy.
• Nourishing Ingredients: Packed with gut-friendly ingredients like cabbage and beans, this soup supports your digestive health.
• Versatile Meal: Enjoy it as a main dish or as a starter; it’s perfect for any occasion.
• Flavorful Experience: With garlic and fresh dill, each spoonful bursts with flavor that won’t disappoint.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or herbs to make it your own!

Tools and Preparation

To make The Best Gut-Healthy Soup efficiently, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Medium heatproof bowl
• Whisk

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Dutch oven: Ideal for cooking soups evenly while providing ample space for stirring.
• Cutting board: A safe surface for chopping ingredients ensures efficiency and safety in food preparation.
• Whisk: Perfect for mixing the egg mixture smoothly without lumps, ensuring a creamy texture in the soup.

Ingredients

This garlicky cabbage soup is pure comfort in a bowl. Warm, hearty, and nourishing, it’s rich with the aromatic flavor of garlic and tender-sweet cabbage.

For the Base

• 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, chopped (about 1 cup)
• 5 large cloves garlic, thinly sliced (3 tablespoons)
• 4 cups chopped green cabbage
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon ground pepper, plus more for garnish
• 4 cups reduced-sodium vegetable broth or no-chicken broth

For Added Texture

• 1 (15-ounce) can no-salt-added cannellini beans, rinsed

For Creaminess

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 large egg

For Flavor Enhancements

• 2½ tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill, plus more for garnish
• ¼ teaspoon salt

How to Make The Best Gut-Healthy Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sliced garlic. Cook while stirring occasionally until softened and fragrant but not browned, about 4 minutes.

Step 2: Add Cabbage and Seasonings

Stir in 4 cups of chopped cabbage along with 1 teaspoon of oregano and ½ teaspoon of ground pepper. Continue cooking until the cabbage starts to soften, which should take about 3 minutes.

Step 3: Incorporate Broth and Beans

Pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth along with the rinsed cannellini beans. Increase the heat to high to bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium; cover and cook while stirring occasionally until the cabbage is tender—this takes about 8 minutes.

Step 4: Prepare Egg Mixture

In a medium heatproof bowl, whisk together ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese, 1 egg, and 2½ tablespoons of lemon juice. While whisking constantly, slowly drizzle about ½ cup of hot soup broth into the egg mixture until fully incorporated. Repeat once more with another half cup.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Remove the pot from heat. Whisk in the tempered egg mixture into the soup. Stir in 2 tablespoons of chopped dill and add ¼ teaspoon salt to taste.

Step 6: Serve

Divide the soup among four bowls. Garnish with additional dill if desired before serving warm.

Enjoy your deliciously comforting bowl of The Best Gut-Healthy Soup!

How to Serve The Best Gut-Healthy Soup

This delicious gut-healthy soup is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it at a gathering, here are some great ideas to elevate your meal.

Pair with Whole Grain Bread

• Toasted whole grain bread enhances the soup’s flavors and adds a satisfying crunch.

Top with Fresh Herbs

• Garnishing with fresh dill or parsley not only adds color but also boosts flavor and nutrition.

Serve with a Side Salad

• A light salad, such as mixed greens with lemon vinaigrette, complements the warmth of the soup and adds freshness.

Add a Dollop of Yogurt

• A spoonful of plain yogurt provides creaminess and a tangy contrast that enriches each bite.

How to Perfect The Best Gut-Healthy Soup

To make this soup even better, consider these simple yet effective tips for enhancing flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and cabbage significantly improve the taste compared to their dried counterparts.
• Adjust Seasoning: Feel free to tweak the salt and pepper based on your personal preference for seasoning.
• Experiment with Broths: Try different vegetable broths or homemade versions for a unique flavor profile.
• Incorporate More Vegetables: Adding carrots or celery can boost both nutrition and texture in your soup.
• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in airtight containers in the fridge for up to three days to maintain freshness.

Best Side Dishes for The Best Gut-Healthy Soup

Serving side dishes alongside your gut-healthy soup can create a balanced meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: Crisp and buttery, garlic bread makes a delightful addition that pairs well with the soup.
2. Quinoa Salad: This protein-packed salad can be seasoned with lemon juice, making it light yet filling.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized provide a nutritious complement to the soup.
4. Hummus & Veggie Platter: A colorful platter of fresh veggies paired with hummus offers crunch and healthy fats.
5. Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf flavored with herbs brings an aromatic touch that goes beautifully with the soup.
6. Stuffed Bell Peppers: These can be filled with grains, beans, or vegetables for an extra hearty side dish.
7. Couscous Salad: Lightly seasoned couscous salad can add texture and flavors that harmonize well with the soup.
8. Chickpea Fritters: Crispy chickpea fritters add a protein-rich side that contrasts nicely with the smooth soup texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking the perfect soup can be tricky. Here are some common pitfalls to avoid when making The Best Gut-Healthy Soup.

• Skipping the aromatics: Aromatics like onion and garlic are key for flavor. Always sauté them until fragrant for a rich base.
• Overcooking the cabbage: Cabbage can become mushy if overcooked. Aim for tender yet crisp cabbage by following cooking times closely.
• Neglecting seasoning: Failing to season at each step can lead to bland soup. Taste as you go and adjust salt and spices accordingly.
• Not tempering the egg: Adding the egg mixture too quickly can cause it to scramble. Slowly drizzle in hot broth while whisking to create a creamy texture.
• Ignoring garnish options: Garnishes add freshness and visual appeal. Don’t forget to top your soup with herbs like dill before serving!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing.

Freezing The Best Gut-Healthy Soup

• Freeze for up to 3 months in airtight containers or freezer bags.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating The Best Gut-Healthy Soup

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe bowl on medium power, stirring halfway through until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making The Best Gut-Healthy Soup.

How can I make this soup vegan?

You can easily make this soup vegan by omitting the cheese and egg, or using plant-based alternatives.

What vegetables can I add for extra nutrition?

Feel free to add carrots, kale, or spinach for additional nutrients and flavors.

Can I use different beans in this recipe?

Yes! Any white beans like navy or great northern beans will work well as substitutes.

What is the best way to store leftovers of The Best Gut-Healthy Soup?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

The Best Gut-Healthy Soup is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can customize it with your favorite veggies or herbs, making it a fantastic option for any meal. Try it today and enjoy its warming comfort!