Cabbage roll soup is a comforting and hearty dish that captures the essence of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls but in a much simpler, one-pot form. This soup combines tender ground beef, savory vegetables, and rice, all simmered in a flavorful tomato broth. It’s a great way to enjoy the flavors of cabbage rolls without the time-consuming process of rolling and baking. Let’s dive into how to make this delicious soup that’s perfect for a cozy meal.
Ingredients:
- Ground beef: 1 lb (450g) – You can also use ground pork or a mix of both for a richer flavor.
- Olive oil: 1 tablespoon – For sautéing the onions and browning the meat.
- Onion: 1 medium, diced – Adds sweetness and depth to the soup.
- Garlic: 3 cloves, minced – Provides a robust and aromatic flavor.
- Cabbage: 1 small head, cored and chopped (about 4-5 cups) – The star vegetable of the soup.
- Carrots: 2 medium, peeled and diced – Adds sweetness and color.
- Diced tomatoes: 14 oz (400g) can, with juice – Gives the soup its rich tomato base.
- Tomato sauce: 15 oz (450g) can – Thickens the soup and adds a concentrated tomato flavor.
- Beef broth: 4 cups (1 liter) – Forms the liquid base of the soup.
- Long grain rice: 1/2 cup, uncooked – Adds substance and texture to the soup.
- Worcestershire sauce: 1 tablespoon – Enhances the umami flavor.
- Paprika: 1 teaspoon – Adds a subtle smokiness and color.
- Dried thyme: 1/2 teaspoon – Provides an earthy flavor.
- Bay leaf: 1 – Adds a subtle depth of flavor during cooking.
- Salt and pepper: To taste – For seasoning.
- Fresh parsley: Chopped, for garnish – Adds a fresh, herby finish.
Instructions:
1. Brown the Ground Beef:
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until it’s browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. This step is crucial as browning the beef adds a depth of flavor to the soup. Once browned, drain any excess fat if necessary.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
- Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté it with the browned beef until the onion becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. The combination of onion and garlic forms the flavor base for the soup.
3. Add the Vegetables:
- Stir in the chopped cabbage and diced carrots. Cook for about 5 minutes, allowing the cabbage to soften slightly. The cabbage will wilt down as it cooks, becoming tender and absorbing the flavors of the soup.
4. Incorporate the Tomatoes and Broth:
- Pour in the can of diced tomatoes with their juice, followed by the tomato sauce. Stir to combine. Then, add the beef broth, bringing the mixture to a simmer. The tomatoes and broth create a rich and savory base for the soup.
5. Add the Rice and Seasonings:
- Stir in the uncooked long grain rice, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, dried thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. The rice will cook directly in the soup, absorbing the flavors of the broth and adding a satisfying texture.
6. Simmer the Soup:
- Cover the pot and let the soup simmer on low heat for about 25-30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the vegetables are cooked through. Stir occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot. The soup will thicken slightly as the rice cooks.
7. Adjust Seasonings:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce to suit your preference. The soup should be flavorful with a good balance of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet notes.
8. Serve and Garnish:
- Remove the bay leaf from the pot and discard it. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and fresh flavor. Serve the soup hot, and enjoy the comforting taste of cabbage rolls in a bowl.
Tips for the Perfect Cabbage Roll Soup:
- Use Fresh Cabbage: Fresh cabbage adds a wonderful texture and flavor to the soup. Make sure to chop it into bite-sized pieces so it cooks evenly.
- Day-Old Rice: If you have leftover cooked rice, you can use it instead of uncooked rice. Add it towards the end of cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy.
- Customize the Protein: Ground beef is traditional, but feel free to substitute with ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor profile.
- Storage: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors meld beautifully as it sits, making for even tastier leftovers.
Cabbage roll soup is a delightful and easier alternative to traditional stuffed cabbage rolls. With its rich tomato broth, tender vegetables, and hearty beef and rice combination, it’s a satisfying meal that warms the soul. This recipe is perfect for a comforting dinner, and it also makes great leftovers for lunch the next day. Try making this soup when you’re craving something cozy and flavorful—it’s sure to become a family favorite!
