Cabbage Roll Soup

Cabbage Roll Soup is a comforting dish that brings the cozy flavors of traditional cabbage rolls into a warm bowl of soup. Perfect for chilly evenings, this recipe combines tender cabbage, hearty ground beef, and savory broth to create a meal that satisfies every time. It’s an ideal choice for family dinners, gatherings with friends, or even meal prep for busy weeks ahead.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This Cabbage Roll Soup comes together in just one pot and requires minimal effort.
• Rich Flavor: With the combination of spices, ground beef, and fresh vegetables, each spoonful is bursting with taste.
• Versatile Meal: Ideal for any occasion, from weeknight dinners to cozy gatherings; it pairs well with crusty bread.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with nutrients from cabbage and carrots, this soup is a wholesome choice for your family.
• Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze leftovers for quick meals on busy nights.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Cabbage Roll Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven or large soup pot
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven or large soup pot: Perfect for even heat distribution and large quantities, making it ideal for soups.
• Sharp knife: Ensures precise chopping of vegetables, which is crucial for even cooking.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for food preparation while protecting your countertops.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need to create this hearty Cabbage Roll Soup.

For the Soup Base

• 2 tsp. vegetable oil
• 1 lb. lean ground beef
• Salt and pepper (to taste)
• 1 medium yellow onion (diced finely)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 4 cups chopped green cabbage
• 2 medium carrots (quartered and sliced)
• 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 3 8 oz. cans tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup white rice (uncooked)
• 1 bay leaf
• 3 tbsp. light brown sugar

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

this recipe

How to Make Cabbage Roll Soup

Step 1: Brown the Beef

In a dutch oven or large soup pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
1. Add the ground beef to the pot.
2. Season with salt and pepper as desired.
3. Cook until browned, breaking it up with a wooden spoon.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Once the beef is browned:
1. Add the diced onion and minced garlic.
2. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the onions are tender.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Next:
1. Stir in the chopped cabbage and carrots.
2. Pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth.
3. Add uncooked white rice, bay leaf, and brown sugar.
4. Mix everything until well combined.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

Bring the mixture to a simmer:
1. Allow it to cook uncovered for about 25 minutes until the rice becomes tender.

Step 5: Finishing Touches

After simmering:
1. Remove the bay leaf from the soup.
2. Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top before serving.

Enjoy your warm bowl of Cabbage Roll Soup!

How to Serve Cabbage Roll Soup

Cabbage Roll Soup is a warm and hearty dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you serve it with bread or as part of a larger meal, these suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

With Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread – This tangy bread complements the flavors of the soup perfectly.
• Garlic Bread – The buttery garlic flavor adds a delicious touch to each spoonful of soup.
• Breadsticks – Soft and chewy, these are great for dipping and soaking up the broth.

With Toppings

• Sour Cream – A dollop of sour cream adds creaminess and balances out the acidity of the tomato base.
• Shredded Cheese – Add shredded cheddar or mozzarella for an extra layer of flavor.
• Chopped Green Onions – Fresh green onions give a nice crunch and a burst of freshness.

As a Meal Prep Option

• Store in Containers – Divide portions into airtight containers for quick lunches throughout the week.
• Freeze for Later – This soup freezes well, making it perfect for meal planning.

How to Perfect Cabbage Roll Soup

To achieve the best results with your Cabbage Roll Soup, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh cabbage and veggies enhance the soup’s flavor significantly.
• Adjust Seasonings – Taste as you cook and adjust salt, pepper, or spices to suit your preferences.
• Let It Simmer Longer – Allowing the soup to simmer for additional time develops deeper flavors.
• Experiment with Proteins – Try using ground turkey or sausage instead of beef for a different taste.

Best Side Dishes for Cabbage Roll Soup

Cabbage Roll Soup pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Garden Salad – A light salad with mixed greens offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
2. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread is perfect for dipping and complements the flavors nicely.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients to your meal.
4. Cheesy Garlic Biscuits – Fluffy biscuits topped with cheese pair beautifully with this comforting soup.
5. Potato Wedges – Crispy potato wedges provide a satisfying crunch alongside the soft soup.
6. Pasta Salad – A chilled pasta salad adds a different texture and is easy to prepare ahead of time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Cabbage Roll Soup can be straightforward, but there are some common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to season the ground beef properly can lead to bland soup. Always add salt and pepper to enhance flavors.
• Overcooking the rice: Cooking the rice too long can make it mushy. Monitor the simmering time closely to ensure it remains tender yet firm.
• Neglecting the bay leaf: Forgetting to remove the bay leaf before serving can result in a bitter taste. Remember to take it out before garnishing with parsley.
• Using too much liquid: Adding excess broth or tomato sauce can dilute the flavors. Stick to the recipe measurements for the best results.
• Not chopping vegetables evenly: Unevenly chopped cabbage and carrots cook at different rates. Aim for uniform pieces for even cooking.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Cabbage Roll Soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for about 3-4 days.

Freezing Cabbage Roll Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty resealable bags.
• The soup can last up to 3 months when frozen.

Reheating Cabbage Roll Soup

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place soup in an oven-safe dish, and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly, about 10-15 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Cabbage Roll Soup?

Cabbage Roll Soup is a comforting dish that brings together all the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls in a hearty soup form.

Can I use leftover cooked cabbage?

Yes! Leftover cooked cabbage works perfectly in this recipe and adds great flavor without any waste.

How do I customize my Cabbage Roll Soup?

You can add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or substitute ground beef with turkey or chicken for a healthier option.

How long does Cabbage Roll Soup last?

When stored properly, it lasts about 3-4 days in the refrigerator and up to 3 months in the freezer.

What are some good sides for Cabbage Roll Soup?

Pair it with crusty bread, a fresh salad, or even rice for a complete meal experience.

Final Thoughts

Cabbage Roll Soup is not just a delightful dinner option; it’s also versatile. You can customize it based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Whether you’re using leftover cabbage or adding your favorite veggies, this soup is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Give this recipe a try today!

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Cabbage Roll Soup

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• Author: Sofia
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Cabbage Roll Soup is a heartwarming dish that combines the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls into a delicious soup. This easy-to-make recipe features tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and a rich tomato broth, making it perfect for chilly evenings or busy weeknights. Not only is it ideal for family dinners and gatherings with friends, but it’s also freezer-friendly for convenient meal prep. With its robust flavor profile and nutritious ingredients, this Cabbage Roll Soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 tsp vegetable oil
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 medium yellow onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 4 cups chopped green cabbage
• 2 medium carrots (sliced)
• 4 cups low-sodium beef broth
• 3 cans (8 oz each) tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup uncooked white rice
• 1 bay leaf
• 3 tbsp light brown sugar
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. In a large soup pot, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned.
2. Stir in diced onion and minced garlic; sauté for an additional 2–3 minutes until onions are tender.
3. Add chopped cabbage and carrots, then pour in tomato sauce and beef broth. Mix in uncooked rice, bay leaf, and brown sugar until well combined.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook uncovered for about 25 minutes or until the rice is tender.
5. Remove the bay leaf before serving and top with freshly chopped parsley.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Cooking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 8g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 5g
• Unsaturated Fat: 8g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 28g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: Use fresh vegetables for optimal flavor. Feel free to customize by adding other veggies or substituting ground beef with turkey. The soup can be frozen for up to three months; just thaw it overnight before reheating.