Ah, Cabbage Roll Soup! It’s one of those hearty meals that feels like a hug in a bowl, isn’t it? I have fond memories of my mom making this comforting dish during chilly winter evenings, the warm aromas wafting through our home and making even the grouchiest of us smile. Seriously, I don’t think there’s anything more delightful than gathering around the table with family and a big pot of this soup simmering away.
What I love about this recipe is that it takes all the deliciousness of traditional cabbage rolls and makes it into a cozy, easy soup that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile! You can tweak it to fit your taste or what you have on hand, making it a true winner in my book. So, let’s get right into it—here’s how to whip up a batch of Cabbage Roll Soup that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
What’s in Cabbage Roll Soup?
Ground Beef (or Turkey): This is the heart of the soup, providing that rich flavor and protein. I often use lean ground beef for a healthier option, but turkey works beautifully if you want something lighter.
Onion: A staple in so many dishes, diced onions add depth and a lovely sweetness as they cook down.
Garlic: Oh, garlic! It adds an instant flavor boost that makes the entire house smell heavenly. I prefer using fresh garlic, but if you’re in a pinch, garlic powder can work too.
Carrot: Diced carrots contribute a natural sweetness and a nice pop of color. Plus, they pack a nutritional punch!
Green Cabbage: The star of the show! Chopped cabbage adds texture and a subtle earthiness to the soup.
Cooked Rice: This is what makes the soup hearty. Use any type of rice you have on hand—white, brown, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb option!
Diced Tomatoes: Canned diced tomatoes add acidity and a burst of flavor, making this soup savory and satisfying.
Beef Broth (or Vegetable Broth): The broth is essential for creating a flavorful base. I always opt for low-sodium broth so I can control the saltiness of my dish.
Tomato Paste: This thickens the soup and enhances the tomato flavor. It’s a secret weapon for making your soup more robust!
Dried Thyme and Paprika: These spices add warmth and aromatic notes that will make your kitchen smell amazing.
Salt and Black Pepper: Basic seasonings that elevate the recipe. I’ve learned that a touch more salt can make all the difference in flavor.
Olive Oil: A must for sautéing the onions and creating that perfect base for your soup.
Fresh parsley: To finish it off, a sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a lovely touch of color and freshness.
Is Cabbage Roll Soup Good for You?
Absolutely! This soup is packed with nutrients. The **green cabbage** brings fiber, vitamins C and K, while the **carrots** are loaded with beta-carotene. The **ground beef** or turkey provides a solid source of protein, making this a complete meal that can help keep you full and satisfied.
That said, if you’re watching your sodium intake, opting for low-sodium broth and canned tomatoes is a smart move. Also, if you’re sensitive to carbs, consider using cauliflower rice instead of regular rice. It’s all about customizing it to fit your dietary needs while still enjoying a delightful bowl of goodness!
Here’s What You’ll Need:
– 1 pound ground beef (or turkey)
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large carrot, diced
– 1/2 head green cabbage, chopped
– 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth)
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
*Yields approximately 6 servings.*
How to Make Cabbage Roll Soup?
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, toss in the diced onion and sauté until it’s translucent—about 3-4 minutes. You’ll love how it makes your kitchen smell!
2. Next, add the minced garlic and diced carrot. Keep stirring for another 2-3 minutes until everything’s fragrant.
3. Crank up the heat to medium-high and add your ground beef or turkey. Cook until browned, using a spoon to break it up as it cooks—about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to drain any excess fat if needed.
4. Now it’s time to stir in that chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes (with all their wonderful juices), beef or vegetable broth, tomato paste, thyme, paprika, salt, and black pepper. Bring this mixture to a boil—it’s about to get delicious!
5. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer, covered, for about 20 minutes until the cabbage is tender. Your patience will be rewarded!
6. Stir in the cooked rice and let it continue to simmer for another 5 minutes until everything is heated through.
7. Finally, give it a taste and adjust the seasonings if necessary. Pour it into bowls while it’s hot and garnish with fresh parsley. Voila!
Serving Suggestions and Variations!
– Need to feed a crowd? This soup is perfect for batch cooking; you can double the recipe without any issue.
– Want to add more veggies? Feel free to toss in some bell peppers, zucchini, or even frozen peas!
– If you’re looking for a little more punch, try adding a dash of hot sauce or some red pepper flakes.
– This soup freezes beautifully, so make enough to stash a few portions away for those busy evenings!
I hope you give this Cabbage Roll Soup a try—it’s comfort food at its finest! Whether reliving fond childhood memories or making new ones, this recipe is sure to warm your heart and fill your belly. And when you do make it, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you. Happy cooking!
