spicy italian meatball soup

Ingredients

• 2 packages (12 ct) italian meatballs
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 - sweet yellow onion, sliced thin
• 5 cloves garlic, peeled and crushed
• 4 - carrots, sliced thin
• 1/2 - head cabbage, sliced thin
• 2 cups red wine
• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 4 cups tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon basil (dried is fine)
• 1 teaspoon italian seasoning
• 1 - bay leaf
• 4 tablespoons fresh oregano
• 1 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)