This Cabbage Roll Soup is a hearty, comforting dish inspired by classic stuffed cabbage rolls. It combines the rich flavors of tender cabbage, ground beef, rice, and tomatoes in a single pot, making it an easy and delicious weeknight meal.
Preparation Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Servings: 6
Ingredients
- Ground Beef: 1 lb (450 g)
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon
- Onion: 1 medium, chopped
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
- Cabbage: 4 cups (300 g), chopped
- Carrots: 2 medium, sliced
- Celery: 2 stalks, sliced
- Tomato Paste: 2 tablespoons
- Crushed Tomatoes: 1 can (28 oz/800 g)
- Beef Broth: 4 cups (1 liter)
- Rice: ½ cup (90 g), uncooked (long-grain or white)
- Bay Leaf: 1
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon
- Dried Thyme: ½ teaspoon
- Salt and Black Pepper: To taste
- Fresh Parsley: For garnish (optional)
Directions
- Cook the Beef:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into smaller pieces with a spoon. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add the Cabbage and Carrots:
- Stir in the chopped cabbage, sliced carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Incorporate the Tomatoes and Broth:
- Add the tomato paste and stir to coat the vegetables.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, beef broth, and 2 cups of water. Mix well.
- Season and Add Rice:
- Stir in the rice, paprika, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer the Soup:
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the flavors are well combined. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Serve:
- Remove the bay leaf and taste for seasoning adjustments. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping.
- Add a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess.
- Pair with a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
- Sprinkle shredded Parmesan cheese on top for added flavor.
- Enjoy with a side of mashed potatoes or baked potatoes.
Cooking Tips
- For a healthier option, substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
- Use brown rice for added fiber and nutrition, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of broth slightly.
- Add a splash of vinegar (red wine or apple cider) for a tangy kick.
- Leftover soup thickens as it sits; add extra broth or water when reheating.
Nutritional Benefits
- Cabbage: Rich in fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants.
- Ground Beef: Provides protein and essential nutrients like iron and zinc.
- Rice: Adds carbohydrates for energy.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-free
- Can be made dairy-free by skipping sour cream or cheese garnishes
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approx.):
- Calories: 300
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 12g
- Fiber: 5g
Storage
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
- Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Combines all the flavors of cabbage rolls without the effort of rolling.
- Perfect for meal prep and easy to freeze.
- Warm, hearty, and filling – great for colder months.
- Customizable with your favorite vegetables or seasonings.
Conclusion
This Cabbage Roll Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for feeding the family or meal prepping for the week. It’s easy to make, packed with nutrients, and delivers the comforting taste of traditional cabbage rolls in a fraction of the time.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use pre-cooked rice?
Yes, add pre-cooked rice during the last 5 minutes of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy. - Can I make this vegetarian?
Substitute the ground beef with lentils or plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth. - What other vegetables can I add?
Peas, zucchini, or green beans are great additions. - Can I use quinoa instead of rice?
Yes, quinoa works well and adds extra protein. Adjust the cooking time as quinoa cooks faster. - How do I make this spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for some heat. - Can I use red cabbage?
Yes, but it will slightly alter the color and taste of the soup. - How do I prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom?
Stir the soup occasionally while it’s simmering. - Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Use a larger pot and adjust the cooking time if needed. - How long does it take to reheat?
Reheat on the stove over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally. - Can I use canned cabbage?
Fresh cabbage is recommended, but canned cabbage can be used in a pinch. Adjust cooking time as needed.