This Corned Beef and Cabbage Soup is the perfect way to enjoy the classic flavors of corned beef in a lighter, heartier soup form. It combines tender, flavorful corned beef with fresh vegetables, including leeks, carrots, cabbage, and potatoes, to create a warm and satisfying dish. This soup is ideal for cold days, offering comfort in every spoonful.
Key Ingredients
- Corned Beef Brisket: The main ingredient, offering rich, savory flavor. Opt for a lean cut for a healthier option.
- Leeks: Adds a mild, sweet onion flavor, enhancing the depth of the soup base.
- Garlic: Provides aromatic and pungent notes, making the soup more savory.
- Carrots: Bring natural sweetness and vibrant color to the soup.
- Yellow Pepper: Adds a subtle sweetness and fresh flavor.
- Potato: Offers hearty starchiness and thickens the soup for a comforting texture.
- Cabbage: A classic pairing with corned beef, adding crunch and earthiness to the dish.
- Bay Leaves: Infuse the soup with herbal notes for an aromatic flavor boost.
- Parsley: Provides brightness and freshness, both as a flavor enhancer and garnish.
- Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the vegetables, contributing richness and a slight fruity flavor.
How to Make Corned Beef and Cabbage Soup
Ingredients
- 2 tsp olive oil
- 2 leeks, chopped (whites and light green parts only)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, chopped
- 1 yellow pepper, chopped
- 1 lb lean corned beef brisket (yields about 9 oz cooked)
- 6 cups water
- 2 bay leaves
- 1/4 cup parsley, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 large potato, peeled and cubed
- 1 small head cabbage, cored and chopped
- Fresh pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables
Start by washing and chopping all your vegetables. Slice the leeks, mince the garlic, chop the carrots and yellow pepper, peel and cube the potato, and chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. - Cook the Corned Beef
If your corned beef isn’t cooked yet, you can boil it according to package directions. For this recipe, you’ll need about 9 oz of cooked corned beef, shredded or cut into small cubes. If you’re using leftover corned beef, this step is easy! - Sauté the Vegetables
Heat 2 tsp olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the leeks and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, until softened and fragrant. Then, add the carrots and yellow pepper, and cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. - Add the Liquids and Corned Beef
Pour in 6 cups of water and add the corned beef (shredded or cubed). Stir in the bay leaves and 1/4 cup chopped parsley. Bring the soup to a simmer. - Add the Potatoes and Cabbage
Once the soup is simmering, add the cubed potato and chopped cabbage. Stir to combine. Bring everything back to a simmer, and let the soup cook for about 20-25 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender, and the flavors have melded together. - Season to Taste
Once the soup is cooked, remove the bay leaves. Taste and season with fresh pepper to your liking. - Garnish and Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with extra parsley for freshness and color. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting, flavorful soup.
Serving Suggestions
This Corned Beef and Cabbage Soup is perfect on its own as a hearty meal, but you can pair it with:
- Crusty bread: Serve with a side of thick slices of buttered bread for dipping.
- Grilled cheese: A classic pairing with soup, grilled cheese sandwiches add a nice crunch and a cheesy bite.
Why This Soup is Perfect
- Comforting & Hearty: The combination of tender corned beef, vegetables, and savory broth makes for a filling and satisfying meal.
- Easy to Make: This soup is simple to prepare, with minimal ingredients that come together in one pot.
- Perfect for Leftovers: Use leftover corned beef from St. Patrick’s Day or any roast to quickly put together this soup. It’s also freezer-friendly, making it perfect for meal prep.
- Packed with Nutrients: With fresh vegetables like leeks, carrots, cabbage, and potatoes, this soup is rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy option for your family.
Final Thoughts
Corned Beef and Cabbage Soup is a flavorful, comforting dish that brings together the best of traditional corned beef meals in a hearty soup form. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner on a chilly day or as a way to use up leftover corned beef. With its simple ingredients and savory, rich flavor, this soup is sure to become a family favorite!