Ingredients

• Ground Beef or Pork: 1 lb
• Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon
• Onion: 1 large, diced
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Carrots: 2 medium, diced
• Celery: 2 stalks, diced
• Green Cabbage: 1 small, chopped
• Diced Tomatoes: 1 can (14.5 oz)
• Tomato Sauce: 1 can (8 oz)
• Beef or Chicken Broth: 6 cups
• White Rice: 1/2 cup, uncooked
• Bay Leaf: 1
• Paprika: 1 teaspoon
• Salt and Black Pepper: to taste
• Fresh Parsley: for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Before you begin cooking, gather all your ingredients and prepare them by dicing the onion, carrots, and celery, mincing the garlic, and chopping the cabbage. This makes the cooking process smoother and faster.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat the Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Cook the Onion and Garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
3. Add Carrots and Celery: Stir in the diced carrots and celery, cooking for another 5 minutes until they begin to soften.

Step 3: Brown the Meat

1. Add Ground Meat: Push the vegetables to the sides of the pot and add the ground beef or pork. Cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Drain Excess Fat: If necessary, drain any excess fat from the pot.

Step 4: Build the Soup

1. Add the Cabbage: Stir in the chopped green cabbage, allowing it to wilt slightly.
2. Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth: Add the can of diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, and broth. Stir well to combine.
3. Season the Soup: Add the uncooked white rice, bay leaf, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to incorporate all ingredients.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

1. Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat to high until the soup comes to a boil.
2. Reduce Heat and Simmer: Lower the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and let the soup cook for about 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the flavors meld together.

Step 6: Final Touches

1. Taste and Adjust Seasoning: After simmering, taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaf.
2. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving, based on 8 servings)

• Calories: 220
• Total Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 45mg
• Sodium: 800mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 25g
• Dietary Fiber: 3g
• Sugars: 4g
• Protein: 15g

Note: Nutrition values may vary based on specific ingredients and brands used.

Tips for Making Hearty Cabbage Roll Soup

1. Use Quality Meat: Opt for lean ground beef or pork to keep the soup hearty but not too greasy. Alternatively, you can use turkey for a lighter version.
2. Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add or substitute vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Bell peppers, zucchini, or corn would all be excellent additions.
3. Rice Cooking Tip: If you prefer not to add uncooked rice to the soup, you can cook the rice separately and stir it in just before serving to prevent it from becoming overly mushy.
4. Herb Enhancements: Fresh herbs such as thyme or oregano can be added for additional flavor, enhancing the soup’s aroma and taste.
5. Spice Level: For a little kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this soup in advance?

Absolutely! Cabbage roll soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day.

2. Is this soup freezer-friendly?

Yes! Once cooled, transfer the soup to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop.

3. Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute the ground meat with lentils or plant-based crumbles and use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth. You can also add extra beans or legumes for protein.

4. What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a simple side salad, or even some homemade cornbread for a complete meal.

5. How can I thicken the soup if desired?

If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with cold water to create a slurry, then stir it into the simmering soup and let it cook for an additional 5-10 minutes.

Storage Tips

• Refrigerator: Store leftover cabbage roll soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little water or broth if necessary to loosen it up.
• Freezer: To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Conclusion

Hearty Cabbage Roll Soup is a nourishing and comforting dish that encapsulates the essence of homemade meals. With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, this soup not only warms your body but also brings back fond memories of family dinners. Its flexibility allows you to tailor it to your taste and dietary needs, making it a staple recipe for any home cook. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a comforting dish to serve guests, this soup is sure to satisfy. Enjoy every spoonful of this deliciously satisfying soup!