This Cabbage Roll Soup combines the hearty flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls in a simple, comforting one-pot meal. It’s rich, savory, and perfect for a cozy night in!
Ingredients
2 teaspoons olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 pound ground beef (90% lean recommended)
1 onion, finely diced
2 teaspoons minced garlic
4 cups coarsely chopped green cabbage
2 carrots, peeled, quartered, and sliced
4 cups beef broth
3 (8-ounce) cans tomato sauce
1/2 cup uncooked long-grain rice
1 bay leaf
3 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons parsley (for garnish)
Preparation
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
Add the ground beef and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook for 4-5 minutes, breaking the meat apart with a spatula, until browned.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot.
Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant and the onions start to soften.
Step 3: Add Vegetables and Liquids
Stir in the chopped cabbage, carrots, beef broth, and tomato sauce.
Mix in the uncooked rice, bay leaf, and brown sugar.
Season the mixture again with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Bring the pot to a simmer over medium heat.
Cover and cook for about 25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
Remove the bay leaf and discard.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Sprinkle fresh parsley over the soup for a burst of color and flavor.
Serve hot with crusty bread or rolls for dipping.
Pro Tips
Customize Your Protein: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey or pork for a different flavor profile.
Vegetarian Option: Substitute the beef with plant-based ground meat and use vegetable broth.
Add a Kick: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce for some heat.
Rice Alternatives: Try barley, quinoa, or cauliflower rice for a unique twist.
Why You’ll Love It
This soup is hearty, filling, and tastes like it’s been simmering for hours. With tender cabbage, sweet carrots, savory beef, and a touch of sweetness from brown sugar, it’s the perfect balance of flavors. Plus, it’s much easier to prepare than rolling individual cabbage leaves!
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
Based on 6 servings:
- Calories: ~300
- Protein: ~18g
- Carbohydrates: ~28g
- Fat: ~12g
- Fiber: ~4g
Serving Suggestions
Serve this cabbage roll soup alongside:
- A slice of crusty sourdough bread or garlic toast.
- A fresh side salad with a tangy vinaigrette.
- A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for extra richness.
Enjoy this easy and comforting recipe that brings all the best flavors of cabbage rolls to your table with minimal effort! 🥬🥕