Gordon Ramsay’s Cabbage Soup is a wholesome, low-calorie dish that is packed with flavors, offering an ideal balance of hearty, nutritious vegetables in a flavorful broth. Perfect for those looking to eat healthy, lose weight, or enjoy a simple yet satisfying meal.
What Is Gordon Ramsay’s Cabbage Soup
Gordon Ramsay’s Cabbage Soup is a vibrant, aromatic soup featuring cabbage as the star ingredient. It’s made by simmering a variety of fresh vegetables, such as onions, carrots, and celery, in a flavorful broth. The dish is perfect for those looking for a low-calorie, filling meal, and is often praised for its health benefits due to the high nutrient content of the vegetables.
The simplicity of the recipe allows the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine, while Ramsay’s special touch adds depth through seasoning and the perfect balance of ingredients. This cabbage soup is commonly associated with weight loss plans, but it’s so tasty that it can easily become a regular part of your menu.
Gordon Ramsay’s Cabbage Soup Recipe
Ingredients Needed

To make Gordon Ramsay’s Cabbage Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 medium cabbage – Cabbage is the key ingredient, adding both texture and nutrition.
- 1 large onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the broth.
- 2 carrots – For natural sweetness and a pop of color.
- 2 celery stalks – Enhances the freshness and flavor profile of the soup.
- 2 cloves of garlic – Adds an aromatic, savory layer to the flavor.
- 1-2 tomatoes – For a touch of acidity and richness.
- Vegetable stock – The base of the soup, providing a savory foundation.
- Olive oil – Used to sauté the vegetables for additional flavor.
- Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning.
- Herbs (such as thyme or bay leaves) – Add a fragrant, earthy element to the dish.
- Lemon juice (optional) – To add a tangy contrast to the soup’s richness.
Equipment Needed
The equipment you’ll need to prepare Gordon Ramsay’s Cabbage Soup is fairly simple:
- Large pot or Dutch oven – This is essential for cooking and simmering the soup ingredients.
- Sharp knife and cutting board – For chopping the vegetables and herbs.
- Wooden spoon or spatula – For stirring the ingredients as they sauté and simmer.
- Ladle – To serve the soup once it’s ready.
- Measuring spoons – For accurate seasoning.
How To Make Gordon Ramsay’s Cabbage Soup?
Making this soup is relatively simple. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making Gordon Ramsay’s Cabbage Soup:
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Prep The Vegetables
- Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces.
- Peel and dice the onion.
- Slice the carrots and celery into thin rounds.
- Mince the garlic and chop the tomatoes.
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Sauté The Vegetables
- Heat a splash of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften and the onions become translucent.
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Add The Tomatoes And Seasonings
- Add the diced tomatoes, salt, pepper, and any herbs you are using (thyme or bay leaves are a good choice). Stir to combine and cook for an additional 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
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Simmer The Soup
- Pour in the vegetable stock, and bring the mixture to a simmer. Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for about 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have developed.
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Add The Cabbage
- Stir in the chopped cabbage, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Continue to cook for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the cabbage to soften and integrate into the soup.
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Final Seasoning
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice if desired. The soup should be savory and aromatic, with a perfect balance of acidity and depth.
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Serve And Enjoy
- Ladle the soup into bowls, and serve hot. Optionally, you can garnish with fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon juice for a refreshing twist.
Expert Tips
- Customize with Protein: If you want to make the soup more filling, consider adding a protein, such as cooked chicken or beans, for extra nutrition and texture.
- Flavor Boost: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a dash of hot sauce for an added layer of complexity and heat.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to swap in other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach for a different twist.
- Make Ahead: This soup keeps well in the fridge for several days, making it a great option for meal prep. The flavors continue to develop as it sits, making it even more flavorful the next day.
- For a Creamy Version: Blend the soup with an immersion blender if you prefer a smooth texture. You can also add a dollop of cream or coconut milk to make it richer.
Gordon Ramsay’s Cabbage Soup is a simple, nutritious, and incredibly satisfying meal that’s perfect for anyone seeking to enjoy healthy food without compromising on flavor. The soup is versatile, allowing for easy adaptations, and offers a delicious, low-calorie option that’s full of vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. Whether you’re on a weight loss journey or just looking for a warming, hearty meal, this cabbage soup is sure to hit the spot!
Easy Recipe Variations For Gordon Ramsay’s Cabbage Soup

Gordon Ramsay’s cabbage soup is a healthy, flavorful dish, perfect for a light lunch or dinner. While his original recipe offers a wonderful combination of ingredients, you can always experiment with a few variations to suit your taste or dietary preferences. Here are some easy ways to switch up the classic cabbage soup recipe:
- Add Protein: To make the soup heartier, consider adding lean proteins like chicken, turkey, or even some crumbled bacon. If you’re vegetarian or vegan, tofu or tempeh can be a great plant-based substitute. For a little extra richness, you can stir in cooked ground beef or sausage for an even deeper flavor.
- Spicy Twist: If you like a little heat, spice things up by adding chili flakes or diced jalapeños to the soup. For an extra smoky kick, throw in a chipotle pepper or a spoonful of smoked paprika.
- Root Vegetables: While the basic recipe calls for cabbage, feel free to include other hearty vegetables such as carrots, sweet potatoes, or parsnips. These root vegetables will add natural sweetness and make the soup even more filling.
- Herb Variations: Fresh herbs elevate the flavor profile of your soup. In addition to the basic thyme or parsley, try adding rosemary, bay leaves, or even dill to create a fragrant broth. Fresh basil or cilantro can also provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.
- Lemon Zest and Vinegar: A small splash of lemon juice or a teaspoon of vinegar can brighten up the flavors. This is a simple trick to cut through the richness and add a refreshing note to the dish.
- Beans and Lentils: For a more substantial and nutritious soup, consider adding beans or lentils. White beans, kidney beans, or chickpeas all pair wonderfully with cabbage. Lentils, particularly red lentils, will break down into the soup and create a thick, comforting texture.
- Vegetable Broth Substitutes: While chicken broth is often used as a base, you can swap it out for vegetable broth for a lighter, vegetarian-friendly alternative. If you’re aiming for a richer broth, opt for a bone broth, which will add deep, savory undertones to your soup.
- Creamy Cabbage Soup: If you enjoy creamy soups, a swirl of heavy cream or coconut milk can transform your cabbage soup into a velvety bowl of comfort. For a dairy-free option, coconut milk works beautifully to add creaminess without the dairy.
Best Practices To Store Leftovers
Leftover cabbage soup is a fantastic meal to have on hand for busy days. It stores well and can even taste better after the flavors have had a chance to meld. To ensure that your cabbage soup stays fresh and safe to eat, follow these best practices:
- Cool the Soup Properly: Before storing leftovers, let the soup cool completely. This helps prevent condensation inside the container, which can dilute the flavor. If you’re in a hurry, you can place the pot in a sink filled with ice water to speed up the cooling process.
- Use Airtight Containers: Transfer the soup into airtight containers to preserve its flavor and prevent it from absorbing odors from other foods in the fridge. Glass jars or plastic containers with secure lids work best for this purpose.
- Refrigeration: Store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Ensure your fridge temperature is set to 40°F (4°C) or lower to keep your food safe.
- Freezing for Longer Storage: If you want to store the soup for an extended period, freezing is your best bet. Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers or freezer bags. You can also use an ice cube tray to freeze small portions of soup for easy reheating. When freezing, make sure to leave a little space at the top of the container for the soup to expand as it freezes.
- Reheating: To reheat cabbage soup, gently warm it on the stovetop over low to medium heat, stirring occasionally. If you’re reheating from frozen, allow the soup to thaw overnight in the fridge, or reheat it straight from frozen on the stovetop. Adding a splash of broth or water will help restore the consistency of the soup if it has thickened too much.
- Freezer Storage Time: Cabbage soup can last up to 3 months in the freezer. After that, while it may still be safe to eat, the flavor and texture may start to deteriorate.
What Goes Well With Cabbage Soup?
Cabbage soup is a flavorful and nutritious dish, but pairing it with the right sides can take the meal to the next level. Here are some great options to serve alongside your cabbage soup:
- Crusty Bread: A hearty loaf of sourdough, baguette, or ciabatta is a classic pairing for cabbage soup. The bread is perfect for dipping into the soup and soaking up all the delicious flavors. You can even toast the bread with a little butter and garlic for added flavor.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwich: The comforting combination of a warm, melty grilled cheese sandwich alongside cabbage soup is the epitome of cozy, soul-satisfying food. Use sharp cheddar, Swiss, or a creamy mozzarella to complement the soup’s savory profile.
- Salads: For a lighter side, a fresh salad works beautifully with cabbage soup. A simple green salad with mixed greens, cucumber, and a tangy vinaigrette will add a crunchy contrast to the soft texture of the soup. If you’re looking for something heartier, consider a roasted vegetable salad or a quinoa-based salad.
- Potato Dishes: Mashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, or even a potato gratin can be excellent side dishes with cabbage soup, especially if you’re looking to make the meal more filling. The mild flavor of potatoes pairs well with the cabbage’s earthiness.
- Pickles and Fermented Vegetables: A side of tangy pickles or fermented vegetables like kimchi can add an extra layer of flavor to your cabbage soup. The acidity of these sides balances out the richness of the soup.
- Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan, crumbled feta, or a few slices of Brie can enhance the flavors of the soup. The creaminess of the cheese melds perfectly with the hearty cabbage and broth.
- Roasted Meat: If you’re craving some meat, roast chicken or a grilled pork chop can make for a great main dish to go alongside the cabbage soup. The savory notes from the meat will complement the soup’s light and brothy base.
Conclusion
Gordon Ramsay’s cabbage soup is not only a nourishing and satisfying dish, but it also offers plenty of room for customization. Whether you prefer to add more protein, spice it up, or go for a creamy variation, there’s always a way to make the recipe your own.
Best of all, this soup stores well for later, so you can enjoy leftovers without losing out on flavor. Pair it with a side of crusty bread, a fresh salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich to round out the meal, and you have yourself a delicious, comforting experience that will satisfy your hunger and warm your heart. Enjoy experimenting and finding your perfect variation of this cabbage soup!.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Needed For Gordon Ramsay’s Cabbage Soup?
Gordon Ramsay’s cabbage soup typically requires cabbage, onions, garlic, carrots, celery, vegetable or chicken stock, olive oil, salt, and pepper. You can also add herbs like thyme and bay leaves for extra flavor.
How Long Does It Take To Prepare Gordon Ramsay’s Cabbage Soup?
The preparation for Gordon Ramsay’s cabbage soup takes about 15-20 minutes, while the cooking process lasts around 40-50 minutes, making it a relatively quick and easy dish to prepare.
Can I Make Gordon Ramsay’s Cabbage Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, you can make the soup vegetarian by using vegetable stock instead of chicken stock. This will ensure the soup remains meat-free while still offering a rich flavor.
What Can I Add To Make The Cabbage Soup Richer In Flavor?
To make the soup richer, you can add a splash of cream or a spoonful of butter for a creamier texture. Adding smoked paprika or a bit of grated cheese can also enhance the flavor.
Can I Freeze Gordon Ramsay’s Cabbage Soup?
Yes, you can freeze Gordon Ramsay’s cabbage soup. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it into an airtight container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Can I Use Other Vegetables Instead Of Cabbage In This Recipe?
While cabbage is the key ingredient, you can experiment with other vegetables like kale, spinach, or even broccoli if you prefer. Keep in mind, though, that this will alter the overall flavor and texture of the soup.
How Can I Make This Soup Spicier?
To add heat, consider incorporating chili flakes, cayenne pepper, or finely chopped fresh chili peppers into the soup. You can adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance.
Is Gordon Ramsay’s Cabbage Soup A Healthy Dish?
Yes, Gordon Ramsay’s cabbage soup is a healthy dish, especially if you stick to the basic ingredients like vegetables and stock. It is low in calories and high in fiber, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a light, nutritious meal.
Can I Add Meat To Gordon Ramsay’s Cabbage Soup?
Yes, if you prefer a heartier version of the soup, you can add cooked chicken, bacon, or sausage. These will enhance the flavor and make the soup more filling.
How Can I Make Gordon Ramsay’s Cabbage Soup More Filling?
To make the soup more filling, you can add potatoes, beans, or pasta. These ingredients will provide extra bulk and make the soup more satisfying.