cabbage soup with attitude

In a large stockpot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Stir in onion, celery, bell pepper, carrots, and garlic. Cook until onion is transparent, about 5 minutes.

Stir in chicken stock, dried seasonings, salt, and pepper.

Bring to a boil. Then stir in cabbage. Simmer until cabbage wilts, about 10 minutes.

Stir in tomatoes and optional V-8 juice. Return to a boil. Then simmer for 15 to 30 minutes; stirring often.

Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

NOTES: I like a little bit of heat, so I add 2 tsp of red pepper flakes. And I like the taste of Italian seasoning with the cabbage (go figure!) so I add 3 Tbsp to suit my taste. You can always start sparingly, taste, and adjust seasonings as desired.