The aroma of Cabbage Roll Soup bubbling on the stove brings back fond memories of family gatherings and cold winter nights. Just like a cozy hug, this soup fills you with warmth and comfort. Growing up, my family often made cabbage rolls during the chilly months, but sometimes we opted for a quicker, easier version: the soup. It’s hearty, delicious, and is sure to satisfy everyone at the table. This recipe means a lot to me as it connects me to my roots while being a simple dish to prepare. What’s special about Cabbage Roll Soup is that it combines all those familiar flavors in one pot, making it a comforting meal without the fuss.
Why Make This Recipe
Cabbage Roll Soup is not just easy to make; it’s also packed with flavor and nutrition. Using affordable ingredients, this recipe is perfect for family dinners and can easily feed a crowd. It’s a great way to enjoy the classic tastes of cabbage rolls without the time-consuming rolling process. Plus, it’s a wonderful way to warm up during those chilly days. You’ll appreciate how comforting and satisfying a bowl of this soup can be.
How to Make Cabbage Roll Soup
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 head of cabbage, chopped
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- 1 cup rice (uncooked)
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Directions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until softened.
- Add ground beef or turkey, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and paprika.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Add uncooked rice, cover, and cook for an additional 20-25 minutes until rice is tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
How to Serve Cabbage Roll Soup
Serve Cabbage Roll Soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs if you like. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad, making for a complete meal. You can also sprinkle some grated cheese on top for extra flavor.
How to Store Cabbage Roll Soup
To store leftover Cabbage Roll Soup, let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can stay in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the soup in freezer-friendly containers for up to 3 months. Just reheat it on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy it again.
Tips to Make Cabbage Roll Soup
- Feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. Some like it spicy, while others prefer it milder.
- If you’re short on time, you can use pre-cooked rice. Just stir it into the soup a few minutes before serving.
- Adding other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers can enhance the flavor and nutrition.
Variation
You can make a vegetarian version by replacing the beef with lentils or mushrooms and using vegetable broth instead of beef broth. This will still give you that comforting taste while keeping it meat-free.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen cabbage?
Yes, you can use frozen cabbage. Just thaw it before adding it to the soup.
2. Is there a way to make this soup spicy?
You can add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a bit of heat.
3. Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! Cabbage Roll Soup tastes even better the next day. Just store it in the refrigerator and reheat when you’re ready to serve.
Cabbage Roll Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey Your choice of ground meat
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 head cabbage, chopped
- 3 cups beef broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup rice (uncooked)
- 1 tsp paprika
- to taste salt and pepper Season according to your preference
- 1 tbsp olive oil For sautéing
Method
Cooking
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; sauté until softened.
- Add ground beef or turkey, cooking until browned. Drain excess fat.
- Stir in chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes, beef broth, and paprika.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 20 minutes.
- Add uncooked rice, cover, and cook for an additional 20-25 minutes until rice is tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.