Quick Overview

Cabbage Roll Soup is a comforting dish that brings the flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls into a warm and satisfying bowl. This recipe combines tender cabbage, savory ground meat, and rich tomato broth for a meal that warms you from the inside out. Perfect for cold evenings or meal prepping for busy weeks, this fulfilling soup is both nutritious and delicious. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you’ll have a delightful dinner ready in no time.

Ingredient Breakdown

Ground Beef

For this recipe, you will need one pound of ground beef. This ingredient provides the main protein source and gives the soup its hearty texture. You can also use ground turkey or chicken if you prefer a lighter option.

Cabbage

One medium head of green cabbage is required. Cabbage adds bulk to the soup while contributing essential vitamins and minerals. It becomes tender when cooked slowly in the flavorful broth.

Onion

One large onion should be diced. Onions enhance the overall taste of the soup by adding sweetness and depth. They caramelize beautifully during cooking, enriching the dish’s flavor profile.

Garlic

Use three cloves of minced garlic for added aroma. Garlic not only boosts flavor but also offers numerous health benefits. Its distinct taste pairs perfectly with the other ingredients in this hearty dish.

Tomato Sauce

You will need one can (15 ounces) of tomato sauce. This ingredient forms the base of your broth and infuses it with rich tomato flavor, creating a deliciously tangy backdrop for the other components.

Chicken Broth

Four cups of low-sodium chicken broth will be used to create a flavorful base for your soup. The broth adds moisture and depth without overpowering other flavors in the dish.

Rice

Incorporate half a cup of uncooked white rice into your soup. Rice absorbs flavors as it cooks and adds heartiness to each serving. You can substitute brown rice if desired; just adjust cooking time accordingly.

Spices

The seasoning includes one teaspoon each of salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning. These spices tie together all ingredients while providing warmth and complexity to the overall flavor.

Step By Step Recipe: Cabbage Roll Soup

Prepare the Ingredients

Start by preparing all your ingredients before cooking to streamline the process. Dice the onion finely, mince the garlic cloves, chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces, and set aside your tomato sauce and broth. Having everything ready makes cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Cook Ground Beef

In a large pot over medium heat, add your ground beef along with diced onions. Cook until browned thoroughly while breaking it apart with a spatula, which takes about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat before proceeding to ensure your soup remains light yet tasty.

Add Garlic

Once your meat is browned, add minced garlic to the pot. Stir constantly for about 1 minute until fragrant but not burnt. The garlic will infuse its delicious flavor into the meat mixture as it cooks further.

Incorporate Cabbage

Next, gently stir in chopped cabbage leaves into your pot mixture. Allow them to wilt slightly by cooking for about 5 minutes while stirring occasionally until they soften but still retain some crunchiness.

Pour in Tomato Sauce

Add one can of tomato sauce to your pot along with four cups of chicken broth. Stir everything together until well combined; bring this mixture to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat.

Add Rice & Seasonings

Once simmering begins, incorporate half a cup of uncooked rice along with salt, pepper, paprika, and Italian seasoning into your pot. Mix until evenly distributed throughout all ingredients; this step will enhance flavors as everything melds together during cooking.

Simmer & Cook Thoroughly

Reduce heat to low after reaching a gentle boil; cover pot tightly and let cook for approximately 30 minutes or until rice is tender but not mushy! Stir occasionally so nothing sticks at bottom while allowing flavors meld beautifully!

Serve Hot

After 30 minutes have passed! Taste test before serving—it might need an extra pinch of salt depending on personal preference! Ladle hot servings into bowls garnished if desired—enjoy warm bowls filled with deliciousness!

Serving and Storing Tips

Serving Suggestions

Serve Cabbage Roll Soup hot in individual bowls alongside crusty bread or crackers for dipping! A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley enhances presentation while offering additional freshness! Pair it with a simple salad for more balance at mealtime!

Storing Leftovers

To store leftovers properly! Allow your soup to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers! Refrigerate them promptly where they last up to four days—when reheating ensure thorough heating throughout!

Freezing Options

For longer storage options! Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to three months! Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating directly on stovetop or microwave until heated through—perfect meal prep solution!

Enjoy making this nourishing Cabbage Roll Soup that warms both body and soul! Perfectly satisfying any time you crave comfort food without fussing too much—happy cooking!

Mistakes to avoid

One common mistake when making Cabbage Roll Soup is not browning the meat properly. Browning adds depth of flavor and enhances the overall taste of the soup. Ensure you cook the meat until it reaches a rich brown color, as this step is essential for a delicious outcome.

Another mistake is using old or wilted cabbage. Fresh cabbage is crucial for achieving the right texture and flavor in your soup. Always choose firm cabbage heads with vibrant green leaves for the best results.

A third mistake is adding too much liquid too quickly. It’s advisable to start with less broth and add more as needed while cooking. This prevents your soup from becoming too watery and ensures a robust flavor.

Finally, neglecting seasoning can lead to bland Cabbage Roll Soup. Be generous with salt, pepper, and herbs throughout the cooking process, tasting as you go to ensure perfect seasoning.

Tips and tricks

To achieve a flavorful Cabbage Roll Soup, sauté your onions and garlic before adding them to the pot. This step develops a sweet, aromatic base that enhances all other flavors in the soup. Use medium heat to prevent burning while stirring frequently until they become translucent.

Consider using a mix of ground meats for added flavor complexity. Combining beef, pork, or turkey can give your soup a richer taste profile. Each type of meat brings its own unique flavor, creating a dish that’s multi-dimensional and satisfying.

Don’t forget about incorporating spices effectively. Besides salt and pepper, ingredients like paprika or crushed red pepper flakes can add warmth without overpowering the dish. Start with small amounts; you can always adjust according to your taste preferences as it simmers.

Lastly, let your Cabbage Roll Soup rest after cooking for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to meld and intensify, giving you an even tastier result. Serve it warm and enjoy!

Suggestions for Cabbage Roll Soup

If you want to add some extra nutrition to Cabbage Roll Soup, consider tossing in some chopped carrots or bell peppers. These vegetables not only boost the nutritional value but also add sweetness and color to the dish.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, try adding diced jalapeños or hot sauce during cooking. This will infuse your soup with spice while complementing the other flavors beautifully.

A great way to customize your Cabbage Roll Soup is by experimenting with different grains. Quinoa or rice can be added for heartiness, making the soup more filling while enhancing its texture.

Lastly, serve your soup with crusty bread or garlic toast on the side. This pairing makes for a comforting meal that’s perfect for cozy evenings.

FAQs

What are the main ingredients in Cabbage Roll Soup?

The primary ingredients for Cabbage Roll Soup include ground meat (such as beef or turkey), cabbage, rice or quinoa, tomatoes (canned or fresh), onion, garlic, and various seasonings like salt and pepper. You can also add vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.

Can I make Cabbage Roll Soup vegetarian?

Yes! To create a vegetarian version of Cabbage Roll Soup, replace ground meat with plant-based protein options such as lentils or crumbled tofu. Use vegetable broth instead of meat broth and include plenty of vegetables to maintain flavor and texture.

How long does Cabbage Roll Soup last in the fridge?

Cabbage Roll Soup typically lasts about 3-4 days in the refrigerator when stored in an airtight container. Make sure it cools completely before refrigerating to preserve freshness longer.

Can I freeze Cabbage Roll Soup?

Absolutely! You can freeze Cabbage Roll Soup for up to three months. Let it cool completely before transferring it into freezer-safe containers or bags for easy reheating later on.

What can I serve with Cabbage Roll Soup?

Serving suggestions include crusty bread or garlic toast alongside your soup to soak up delicious broth. You might also consider a fresh salad for a light accompaniment that balances out the meal perfectly.

How do I reheat leftover Cabbage Roll Soup?

To reheat leftover Cabbage Roll Soup, pour it into a saucepan over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, which should take about 5-10 minutes depending on portion size. Alternatively, you can use a microwave-safe bowl if you prefer microwave reheating.

Summary

In summary, avoiding common mistakes like improper browning of meat and using fresh ingredients will greatly improve your Cabbage Roll Soup’s flavor profile. Implementing helpful tips such as proper sautéing techniques and allowing time for flavors to meld will enhance your dish further. Don’t hesitate to get creative with suggestions like adding extra vegetables or grains! Enjoy comforting bowls of this delicious soup any time of year.