Description
A hearty and comforting Cabbage Roll Soup that captures the flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls in a warm, easy-to-make soup. Ground beef, cabbage, tomatoes, and rice come together in a savory broth seasoned with basil, thyme, and smoked paprika, perfect for a cozy family meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 2 cups cabbage, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for sweetness)
- Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Brown the Meat: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Cook until the onion softens and becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add Liquids and Vegetables: Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, water, cooked rice, chopped cabbage, dried basil, dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer the Soup: Reduce heat to low, cover, and let the soup simmer for 30-40 minutes, until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Adjust Flavor: If you prefer a touch of sweetness to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, stir in the optional brown sugar. Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve: Remove from heat and ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve hot.
Notes
- This soup can be made with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
- For a gluten-free option, ensure the beef broth used is gluten-free.
- Cook the rice ahead of time or use leftover rice for convenience.
- Adding brown sugar is optional but helps to balance tomato acidity.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave before serving.
