Cabbage Roll Soup

Cabbage Roll Soup

Cabbage Roll Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that encapsulates all the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the hassle of rolling each one by hand. Picture this: a warm bowl filled with tender ground beef, vibrant vegetables, and tender cabbage, all simmered together in a rich, savory broth. This soup is not just a meal; it’s a cozy hug on a chilly day, making it worth adding to your recipe collection. With easy preparation steps and delightful aromas wafting through your kitchen, you’ll soon find that this recipe is a family favorite. Let’s dive into this step-by-step guide, where you’ll be cooking up something truly delightful!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cabbage Roll Soup boasts numerous benefits that make it an ideal choice for any busy household. The prep is incredibly straightforward, and with minimal ingredients, you can whip it up quickly, making it a perfect weeknight dinner. It’s family-friendly, satisfying the appetites of both children and adults alike. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, which means less cleanup later on! Whether you’re looking for a traditional comforting meal or a quick recipe that doesn’t compromise on flavor, this Cabbage Roll Soup checks all the boxes.

Ingredients for Cabbage Roll Soup

To create this irresistible Cabbage Roll Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium green bell pepper, chopped for added sweetness and crunch
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, providing a burst of flavor
• 4 cups beef broth, the base that ties all the ingredients together
• 1 small head of cabbage, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup rice (uncooked), which makes this soup filling
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste, for a rich, concentrated tomato flavor
• 1 teaspoon paprika, adding warmth and depth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano, giving an earthy aroma
• Salt and pepper to taste, enhancing the overall flavor
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish, bringing a pop of color

Step-by-Step Directions for Cabbage Roll Soup

1. In a large pot, start by browning the ground beef over medium heat. This adds a fantastic depth of flavor. Once browned, drain any excess fat.

2. Next, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté the mixture for about 5 minutes until the vegetables become tender and aromatic.

3. Now, stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, chopped cabbage, and uncooked rice. Follow this with the tomato paste, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. This combination is where the magic starts to happen!

4. Bring the entire mixture to a joyous boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it gently simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the cabbage and rice are tender.

5. Just before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley for a lovely finishing touch.

Tips & Tricks for Cabbage Roll Soup

To elevate your Cabbage Roll Soup, consider these helpful tips and tricks. First, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can add a pinch of red chili flakes for a hint of heat. For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream just before serving.

You can also use leftover cooked rice to cut down on prep time; simply add it in during the last 10 minutes of cooking to warm through. Lastly, if you want to sneak in more vegetables, consider adding shredded carrots or zucchini for added nutrition.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

This Cabbage Roll Soup is delicious on its own, but you can make it a complete meal by serving it alongside warm, crusty bread or homemade cornbread. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the heartiness of the soup beautifully. For an extra layer of flavor, consider pairing it with a dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt on top before serving.

Nutritional Information for Cabbage Roll Soup

Cabbage Roll Soup is not only flavorful but also nutritious. On average, a serving size (1 cup) contains approximately:

• Calories: 290
• Protein: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fat: 10g
• Fiber: 3g

This makes it a wholesome option, especially suited for cold days when you want something warm and filling without excessive calories.

Storing Tips & Variations for Cabbage Roll Soup

If you have leftovers, you can store the Cabbage Roll Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, this soup freezes exceptionally well. Simply let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

When reheating, do so slowly over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of beef broth or water to revive its original consistency if necessary. As for variations, feel free to experiment with different types of ground meat such as chicken or lamb, or even go vegetarian with lentils and mushrooms!

Conclusion for Cabbage Roll Soup

Now that you have the delicious recipe for Cabbage Roll Soup, it’s time to bring this hearty dish to your table. Its simplicity and taste make it a must-try, especially during the cooler months. Don’t wait – gather your ingredients and dive into the world of flavors that this soup offers!

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
   Yes, you can use brown rice, but be aware that it will require a longer cooking time, approximately 45-55 minutes.

2. Is it possible to make this soup in a slow cooker?
   Absolutely! You can sauté the beef and vegetables in a skillet first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

3. Can I make Cabbage Roll Soup vegetarian?
   Yes! Substitute the ground meat with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a delicious vegetarian option.

4. What can I add to make this soup even heartier?
   Consider adding more vegetables such as diced carrots, celery, or even navy beans for a protein boost.

5. Can I adjust the spice levels?
   Definitely! Feel free to add more paprika or even a dash of cayenne pepper if you enjoy a bit of heat.

Cabbage Roll Soup

A comforting and hearty dish that captures the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls in a warm, savory soup.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 40 minutes mins

Total Time 50 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Main Course, Soup

Cuisine: American, Comfort Food

Calories: 290

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a lighter option)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium green bell pepper, chopped for added sweetness and crunch
• 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes providing a burst of flavor
• 4 cups beef broth the base that ties all the ingredients together
• 1 small head cabbage, chopped into bite-sized pieces
• 1 cup rice (uncooked) makes this soup filling
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste for a rich, concentrated tomato flavor
• 1 teaspoon paprika adding warmth and depth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano giving an earthy aroma
• to taste Salt and pepper enhancing the overall flavor
• to taste Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish, bringing a pop of color

Method

 

Preparation

1. In a large pot, start by browning the ground beef over medium heat. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, and bell pepper to the pot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables become tender and aromatic.

Cooking

1. Stir in the diced tomatoes, beef broth, chopped cabbage, and uncooked rice. Follow with the tomato paste, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it gently simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the cabbage and rice are tender.
3. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley.

Notes

Consider adding a pinch of red chili flakes for heat or a splash of heavy cream for creaminess. Use leftover cooked rice to cut down prep time; add it in the last 10 minutes to warm through. Additional vegetables like shredded carrots or zucchini can also be added.