Cabbage Roll Soup is a hearty, comforting dish that brings all the flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls without the hassle of rolling. This soup is packed with tender cabbage, savory ground meat, rice, and a rich tomato base. It’s the perfect meal for cozy nights, offering all the deliciousness of cabbage rolls in a quicker, easier form!
Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour
Servings: 6-8
Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef or ground turkey
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium carrot, chopped
- 1 medium bell pepper, chopped
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 cup cooked rice (preferably long-grain)
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (400g)
- 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce (425g)
- 6 cups beef broth or vegetable broth (1.5L)
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
- Sauté the Meat and Vegetables:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
- Once the meat is browned, add the chopped onion, garlic, carrot, and bell pepper. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften.
- Add the Broth and Tomatoes:
- Add the chopped cabbage to the pot, followed by the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and beef broth. Stir everything together.
- Season with oregano, basil, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a simmer.
- Simmer the Soup:
- Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Add Rice and Adjust Seasoning:
- Stir in the cooked rice and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, until the rice is heated through.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed.
- Serve:
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve with crusty bread or a side of crackers for dipping.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top for extra richness.
- Pair with a simple green salad for a complete meal.
- Serve with a glass of chilled white wine for a refreshing contrast.
- For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce.
Cooking Tips:
- For extra flavor, try using homemade broth or adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the soup.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add an extra half-cup of rice or cook it for a little longer to let the rice absorb more of the liquid.
- This soup can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for a couple of days—it’s even better the next day!
Nutritional Benefits:
- Cabbage is rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants.
- Ground meat provides protein and iron, especially if you use lean beef or turkey.
- Rice offers a source of carbohydrates for energy.
- The soup is high in fiber and vitamin-rich vegetables, making it a wholesome choice.
Dietary Information:
- Gluten-Free: Yes (use rice instead of any wheat-based product)
- Dairy-Free: Yes
- Low-Carb: No (due to the inclusion of rice)
- Low-Calorie: Yes (depending on the amount of meat and broth used)
Nutritional Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 6g
Storage:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- This soup also freezes well. Let it cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
- It’s a one-pot meal that’s easy to make and full of flavor.
- The soup is hearty and satisfying, yet healthy with lots of vegetables.
- It’s the perfect comfort food that warms you from the inside out.
- Leftovers taste even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep.
Conclusion:
This Cabbage Roll Soup is a family-friendly dish that combines all the flavors of classic stuffed cabbage rolls into a hearty, easy-to-make soup. It’s full of nutritious vegetables, tender meat, and aromatic spices that make every bite comforting and satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just looking for a filling weeknight meal, this soup is sure to be a hit. Enjoy the warm, delicious goodness of this dish anytime!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
- Can I use ground chicken or turkey instead of beef?
Yes! Ground turkey or chicken would work perfectly in this recipe as a leaner alternative. - Can I skip the rice?
You can skip the rice if you’re looking for a low-carb version, or replace it with cauliflower rice for a lighter option. - Can I use frozen cabbage?
Fresh cabbage works best for this recipe, but you can use frozen cabbage if that’s what you have on hand. Just be sure to thaw and drain it before adding it to the soup. - Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the meat and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 4-6 hours. - How can I make this soup spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the soup for some heat. - Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup tastes even better the next day! Make it ahead and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. - How can I freeze the soup?
Let the soup cool completely, then store it in freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. - Can I use different vegetables in the soup?
Yes, feel free to add or swap in other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini. - What type of broth is best for this soup?
Beef broth gives the soup a rich flavor, but you can also use chicken or vegetable broth for a lighter option. - Can I add cheese to this soup?
Absolutely! Add a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top before serving for an extra creamy and savory finish.