Cabbage roll soup is like a warm hug on a cold day, with its rich flavors and hearty textures that dance on your taste buds. Imagine the comforting aroma of simmering cabbage mingling with savory spices, making your kitchen smell like a cozy haven.
This delightful dish takes me back to my childhood, where my grandma would whip up a big pot of cabbage roll soup every Sunday. The whole family would gather around, eagerly waiting for bowls filled with this delicious goodness. It’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a little pick-me-up.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This cabbage roll soup is incredibly easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- Enjoy the rich flavor profile that combines tender cabbage and zesty tomatoes in each bite
- The vibrant colors make it visually appealing, brightening up any dinner table
- Versatile enough to customize with your favorite proteins or grains, it’s sure to be a family favorite
I remember one Thanksgiving when I brought a pot of this soup to share with friends; the compliments poured in like gravy over mashed potatoes!
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.
Cabbage: Fresh green cabbage works best; look for firm heads with vibrant leaves.
Onions: Chopped onions add sweetness; yellow or white varieties are great choices.
Garlic: Minced garlic elevates the flavor; fresh cloves are always preferred.
Tomato Sauce: Opt for a good quality tomato sauce to enhance the overall taste.
Rice: Uncooked white or brown rice adds heartiness; adjust according to preference.
Beef Broth: Use low-sodium beef broth for depth of flavor without overwhelming saltiness.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
Sautéing the Aromatics: Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, sauté until they become fragrant and translucent.
Browning the Meat: Add ground beef to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula as it cooks. Drain excess fat if necessary.
Add Cabbage and Rice: Stir in chopped cabbage and uncooked rice, mixing thoroughly until the cabbage starts to wilt slightly.
Pour in the Broth and Tomato Sauce: Carefully pour in beef broth and tomato sauce, stirring everything together well. Allow it all to come together in harmonious bliss.
Simmer Time!: Reduce heat and let your soup simmer gently for about 30 minutes. Enjoy the delightful aromas filling your kitchen!
Adjust Seasoning Before Serving: Taste your soup before serving; add salt, pepper, or even a dash of hot sauce if you’re feeling adventurous.
And there you have it! A cozy bowl of cabbage roll soup that warms both heart and soul. Enjoy this hearty dish straight from the pot or store leftovers in an airtight container for easy meals throughout the week!
You Must Know
- Cabbage roll soup is a cozy dish packed with flavor and nostalgia
- The aromas of simmering spices and tender cabbage will fill your kitchen, making it feel like home
- This dish is perfect for meal prep, easy to customize, and always a crowd-pleaser
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by browning the meat in a pot, then add onions and garlic before introducing the broth and cabbage. This sequence builds layers of flavor that are simply irresistible.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out beef for turkey or add your favorite veggies like carrots or bell peppers. Toss in some spicy sausage for an extra kick!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover cabbage roll soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave until piping hot.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To enhance your cabbage roll soup, use homemade broth for next-level flavor
- Avoid overcooking the cabbage; it should be tender yet slightly crunchy
- Consider garnishing with fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream for an extra touch of goodness
Cooking this dish reminds me of family gatherings where everyone would gather around the table, sharing stories while savoring each warm bite together.
FAQ
What can I substitute for meat in cabbage roll soup?
Try using lentils or mushrooms as a hearty vegetarian alternative in this soup.
How do I make my cabbage roll soup spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to spice things up according to your heat preference.
Can I freeze cabbage roll soup?
Absolutely! Freeze it in portions for quick weeknight meals whenever you need comfort food.
Cabbage Roll Soup
Cabbage roll soup is a warm, comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and zesty tomatoes. Perfect for chilly evenings or family gatherings, this hearty soup brings nostalgia with every spoonful. Easy to prepare and customizable, it’s destined to become a staple in your kitchen.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: Eastern European
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- 1 medium head green cabbage, chopped
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
- 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
- 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, sauté the chopped onions and minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Stir in the chopped cabbage and uncooked rice until the cabbage begins to wilt.
- Pour in the beef broth and tomato sauce, mixing thoroughly.
- Reduce heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 30 minutes. Adjust seasoning before serving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (300g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
