This Easy Cabbage Meatball Soup is a heartwarming blend of flavors that brings together tender meatballs, savory cabbage, and a vibrant tomato-lemon broth. Perfect for chilly days, it’s a one-pot wonder that feels both indulgent and nutritious. With its zesty lemon kick and aromatic fresh herbs, this dish transforms simple ingredients into a comforting and satisfying meal. Whether you’re hosting a family dinner or simply craving a bowl of homemade goodness, this soup delivers every time.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
For The Meatballs:
- 500 grams (17.6 ounces) ground beef or pork (or a mix)
- 80 grams (2.8 ounces) ripe tomato, grated
- 1 egg yolk
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 50 grams (½ medium-sized) onion, minced
- 50 grams (4 tablespoons) short-grain rice
- 1½ tablespoons parsley, minced
- 1½ tablespoons dill, minced
- ⅔ teaspoon mint, minced
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- ½ teaspoon thyme
- ⅔ teaspoon salt
- ⅓ teaspoon ground pepper
For The Soup:
- 10 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 450 grams (15.8 ounces) ripe tomatoes, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons tomato paste
- 10 tablespoons tomato sauce (passata)
- 8 cups hot water or stock (vegetable, beef, or chicken)
- 1 bay leaf
- 100 grams (1 small) green bell pepper, diced
- 70 grams (2.4 ounces) celery stalks and leaves, chopped
- 450 grams (15.8 ounces) white cabbage, shredded
- 100 grams (9 tablespoons) short-grain rice, rinsed
- 2 tablespoons parsley, minced
- 1½ tablespoons dill, minced
- 6 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- Extra lemon wedges for serving
Directions:
- Prepare the Meatballs:
- Combine all meatball ingredients in a mixing bowl.
- Shape into 12 round meatballs (approximately 60 grams each). Refrigerate for at least 1 hour.
- Prepare the Soup:
- Heat 5 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over high heat. Add diced tomatoes and garlic, cooking for 2 minutes.
- Stir in tomato paste, tomato sauce, and a pinch of salt. Cook for 2 more minutes.
- Pour in hot water or stock, add the bay leaf, and bring to a boil.
- Add meatballs one by one, ensuring the pot returns to a boil before adding the next. Cook over medium heat for 20 minutes with the lid slightly ajar.
- Add shredded cabbage, celery, and bell pepper. Cook for an additional 10 minutes.
- Stir in rice and the remaining olive oil, cooking for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender.
- Add parsley, dill, and lemon juice, cooking for 1 minute before removing from heat.
- Allow soup to sit for 30 minutes to thicken before serving.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Kcal: 881 kcal per serving | Servings: 4 servings
Exploring the Delightful World of Cabbage Meatball Soup
Cabbage Meatball Soup is a comforting, hearty dish that encapsulates the essence of home-cooked meals. This recipe is a simpler, yet equally flavorful, adaptation of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls, often enjoyed in Greek and Mediterranean cuisines. By transforming the intricate preparation of cabbage rolls into a one-pot soup, this dish delivers all the beloved flavors with much less effort.
The Origins and Inspiration Behind the Recipe
This recipe draws its roots from Greek culinary traditions, where cabbage often features prominently in dishes like Lahanorizo (cabbage and rice stew) and stuffed cabbage rolls. While stuffed cabbage rolls are typically served in a rich egg-lemon sauce, this soup leans on tomatoes for its base, creating a lighter, more refreshing flavor profile. It is a testament to how Greek cuisine masterfully balances vibrant, zesty notes with heartwarming, savory depths.
This soup also resonates with a broader tradition found in many cultures of turning cabbage a humble and economical ingredient into something extraordinarily satisfying. By combining cabbage with tender meatballs and a medley of fresh herbs, the recipe bridges simplicity and indulgence.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
1. A Symphony of Flavors
Cabbage Meatball Soup combines the natural sweetness of shredded cabbage, the zesty tang of lemon, and the richness of tomatoes. The meatballs, infused with garlic, herbs, and spices, add a savory depth that perfectly complements the other ingredients. Together, these elements create a well-rounded dish that excites the palate with every bite.
2. A Nutritious Powerhouse
Packed with vegetables like cabbage, celery, and green bell peppers, this soup is rich in vitamins, fiber, and antioxidants. The addition of rice makes it a balanced, filling meal, while the lean protein from the meatballs provides sustained energy. It’s a wholesome option for those looking to enjoy comfort food without compromising on nutrition.
3. Versatile and Customizable
This recipe can be tailored to suit various dietary preferences. Ground beef, pork, or a mix of the two are traditional choices, but ground chicken or turkey work just as well for a lighter alternative. For vegetarians, plant-based meat substitutes can easily replace the meatballs. Additionally, the level of acidity, spice, or herbaceousness can be adjusted to suit individual tastes.
4. Ideal for Any Occasion
Whether you’re looking for a cozy family dinner, a meal-prep option for busy weeks, or a dish to impress at a gathering, this soup fits the bill. It reheats beautifully, making it an excellent candidate for leftovers or freezing.
Cooking Tips and Tricks
- Perfecting the Meatballs
Letting the meatball mixture rest in the refrigerator helps the flavors meld and the texture firm up. This step ensures the meatballs hold their shape when cooked. - Achieving the Right Consistency
Allowing the soup to sit for 30 minutes after cooking thickens the broth slightly, thanks to the rice releasing its starches. For a thinner consistency, simply add a splash of water or stock while reheating. - Elevating the Flavors
A final squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving brightens the dish and enhances the herbs’ fragrance. You can also sprinkle cayenne pepper for an extra kick. - Serving Suggestions
Pair this soup with crusty bread for dipping, or enjoy it alongside a light green salad for a complete meal. It’s also delicious on its own, served steaming hot on a cold evening.
Cultural and Culinary Significance
Cabbage Meatball Soup not only satisfies hunger but also offers a glimpse into the warmth of Greek home cooking. It is a dish that celebrates the tradition of using fresh, seasonal ingredients to create meals that nourish both the body and soul. The emphasis on wholesome, natural flavors reflects the principles of the Mediterranean diet, widely regarded as one of the healthiest in the world.
This soup also illustrates the ingenuity of cooks who transform simple, accessible ingredients into gourmet-worthy creations. The use of cabbage a staple in many cuisines is a nod to resourcefulness, while the inclusion of vibrant herbs like dill and parsley adds a touch of sophistication.
Conclusion:
Cabbage Meatball Soup is more than just a dish; it’s an experience of warmth, comfort, and tradition. Its harmonious blend of flavors, nutritional benefits, and versatility make it a must-try for anyone seeking a hearty yet wholesome meal. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe offers a straightforward way to impress your family and guests with a taste of Mediterranean-inspired goodness.
So, the next time you’re craving a satisfying and nourishing bowl of soup, let this recipe be your go-to. Its inviting aroma, rich flavors, and soul-soothing qualities are sure to make it a new favorite in your recipe repertoire.