This Cabbage Roll Soup is a delicious and hearty meal perfect for cold nights. With tender cabbage, carrots, minced beef, and rice simmered in a flavorful tomato broth, this soup is packed with warmth and comfort. Plus, it’s easy to prepare with simple ingredients already in your kitchen!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb minced beef
- 22 oz crushed tomatoes
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 14 oz white cabbage, chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 cups beef broth
- ½ cup rice
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 teaspoons salt
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
Directions:
Step 1: Sauté the Onions and Beef
In a medium-sized pot over medium heat, add the olive oil and chopped onions. Sauté for about 4 minutes until the onions are soft and fragrant. Add the minced beef, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook for 5 minutes until browned.
Step 2: Add Vegetables and Seasonings
Chop the carrots and cabbage into small pieces and add them to the pot along with the rice, minced garlic, salt, pepper, sugar, and bay leaf. Pour in the beef broth and crushed tomatoes.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Using a wooden spoon, stir the ingredients together until well mixed. Cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let the soup simmer for 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the rice is fully cooked.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Remove the bay leaf and give the soup a final stir. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Serving and Storage Tips:
- Serving: Serve the soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Cabbage soup freezes well! Transfer cooled soup to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Helpful Notes:
- Slow Cooker Option: To make this soup in a slow cooker, follow the recipe until you add the beef broth and tomatoes. Transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours.
- Reheating: Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions:
- Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a great substitute and makes for a lighter soup. - What if I want a spicier version?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for extra heat. - Do I have to add sugar?
The sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes, but you can omit it or replace it with a natural sweetener if you prefer. - Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Celery, bell peppers, or zucchini would be delicious additions to this soup. - Is it necessary to cook the rice separately?
No, the rice will cook directly in the soup, absorbing the flavors as it softens.
This Cabbage Roll Soup is a cozy and nutritious meal that’s family-friendly, easy to make, and perfect for meal prep. Enjoy a warm bowl filled with classic flavors and comforting goodness!