This Cabbage Beef Soup is a delicious, comforting dish that’s packed with flavor and nutrition. Made with simple ingredients like ground beef, cabbage, kidney beans, and spices, it’s a perfect recipe for a satisfying and hearty meal. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner on a cold day or an easy dish to prepare in bulk, this soup will hit the spot!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  (For sautéing the onions and beef.)
• 1 pound ground beef
  (Lean ground beef works best to keep the soup flavorful but not too greasy.)
• ½ large onion, chopped
  (Adds a savory base to the soup.)
• 5 cups shredded cabbage
  (Cabbage adds bulk, texture, and flavor to the soup.)
• 2 (16 ounce) cans red kidney beans, drained
  (Rich in protein and fiber, these beans make the soup more filling.)
• 24 ounces tomato sauce
  (Tomato sauce gives the soup its rich, hearty flavor.)
• 2 cups water
  (Helps to thin the soup and allows the flavors to meld together.)
• 4 beef bouillon cubes
  (Provides a deep, beefy flavor to the soup.)
• 1 ½ teaspoons ground cumin
  (Adds warmth and a subtle smoky flavor.)
• 1 teaspoon salt
  (For seasoning, adjust to taste.)
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
  (Enhances the flavor of the soup.)

Instructions:

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

1. Heat the Oil:
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat.
2. Brown the Beef and Onions:
   • Add the 1 pound of ground beef and chopped onion to the pot. Cook until the beef is browned and the onions are soft, about 5-7 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to break up the beef into smaller pieces.

Step 2: Add the Cabbage and Beans

1. Add the Cabbage:
   • Once the beef is fully cooked, stir in the 5 cups of shredded cabbage. Cook for another 3-5 minutes until the cabbage starts to wilt.
2. Add the Kidney Beans:
   • Drain the 2 cans of red kidney beans and add them to the pot. Stir everything together to combine.

Step 3: Add the Liquids and Seasonings

1. Pour in the Tomato Sauce and Water:
   • Add the 24 ounces of tomato sauce and 2 cups of water to the pot. Stir to combine the liquids with the other ingredients.
2. Add the Bouillon Cubes and Spices:
   • Stir in the 4 beef bouillon cubes, 1 ½ teaspoons of ground cumin, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1 teaspoon of black pepper. Mix well to dissolve the bouillon cubes and evenly distribute the spices.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

1. Bring to a Boil:
   • Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the soup to a boil.
2. Simmer:
   • Once the soup is boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the cabbage to become tender.

Serving Suggestions:

• Serve the soup hot with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a side salad for a complete meal. You can also top it with a dollop of sour cream or sprinkle some fresh parsley for added freshness.

Storage and Reheating:

• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through. The flavors often deepen after sitting for a day, making it even tastier!

Optional Additions:

• Vegetables: Add diced carrots, celery, or potatoes for more variety and texture.
• Spices: For a spicier kick, add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.

Why You’ll Love This Cabbage Beef Soup:

• Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins, this soup is a wholesome meal.
• Hearty and Filling: The combination of ground beef, beans, and cabbage ensures this soup is filling and satisfying.
• Budget-Friendly: Using inexpensive ingredients like cabbage, beans, and ground beef makes this an economical meal option.
• Great for Meal Prep: This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping.

FAQs:

1. Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for the beef if you prefer a different flavor.

2. How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make it vegetarian, omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of beef bouillon. You can add extra beans or lentils for more protein.

3. Can I freeze this soup?
Yes! This soup freezes well. Let it cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer-safe bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove.

4. Can I add pasta or rice to this soup?
Certainly! You can add cooked pasta or rice during the last 10 minutes of cooking for added texture and heartiness.

 

Nutritional Information (Per Serving):

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.

• Calories: 250 kcal
• Protein: 18g
• Carbohydrates: 18g
• Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 6g