Cabbage Roll Soup

Cozy up with our hearty Cabbage Roll Soup recipe, packed with savory flavors and perfect for warming you up on chilly days. This comforting bowl brings together tender cabbage, seasoned ground meat, and a rich tomato broth that echoes the classic taste of traditional cabbage rolls without the fuss of rolling. Whether you’re craving a nourishing lunch or a satisfying dinner, this soup hits all the right notes with every spoonful.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• A taste of nostalgia: Enjoy all the classic flavors of cabbage rolls in a comforting soup form that’s simple and quick to prepare.
• Nutritious and filling: Packed with vegetables and protein, this soup nourishes the body while satisfying hearty appetites.
• One-pot wonder: Saves time and cleanup by cooking everything in a single pot without sacrificing flavor.
• Great for leftovers: Flavors deepen overnight, making it even better the next day.
• Kid-friendly and customizable: Mild spices and familiar ingredients make it a hit with the whole family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Cabbage Roll Soup recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create a balanced and flavorful dish. Each item plays its part in building the perfect taste, texture, and vibrancy you’ll love.

• Ground beef or turkey: Adds rich protein and savory depth to the soup.
• Green cabbage: Provides a tender, slightly sweet crunch that’s essential for that classic cabbage roll taste.
• Onion and garlic: Build aromatic layers of flavor to enhance the broth.
• Tomato sauce and diced tomatoes: Deliver tanginess and a rich, hearty base.
• Beef broth: Offers warmth and unites all ingredients with a comforting savory liquid.
• Rice: Mimics the filling inside cabbage rolls, adding texture and substance.
• Seasonings (salt, pepper, paprika, thyme): Bring out the full character and warmth in every bite.

Variations for Cabbage Roll Soup

Feel free to personalize this Cabbage Roll Soup to your taste, dietary preferences, or what you have on hand. This soup’s flexible nature makes it a crowd-pleaser for all kinds of eaters!

• Vegetarian version: Replace the ground meat with lentils or textured vegetable protein for a meat-free option.
• Spicy kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne to heat things up.
• Low-carb option: Skip the rice or substitute with cauliflower rice to keep it light.
• Different meats: Try ground chicken, pork, or even sausage for varied flavor profiles.
• More veggies: Toss in carrots, celery, or bell peppers to boost nutrition and color.

How to Make Cabbage Roll Soup

Step 1: Sauté the aromatics and meat

Start by heating a bit of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and garlic, cooking until softened and fragrant—about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the ground beef or turkey, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and no longer pink.

Step 2: Add rice and spices

Stir in uncooked rice along with your chosen seasonings like salt, pepper, paprika, and thyme. Allow the rice to toast lightly with the meat mixture for about a minute to deepen the flavors.

Step 3: Pour in tomatoes and broth

Add diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth to the pot. Stir everything well, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom to infuse richness into the soup.

Step 4: Incorporate cabbage and simmer

Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces and add it to the pot. Reduce heat to low and let the soup simmer gently for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the cabbage has softened beautifully.

Step 5: Final taste and adjustments

Give the soup a final stir and adjust seasoning as needed. For extra brightness, a splash of vinegar or a pinch of sugar can balance the tomato acidity perfectly.

Pro Tips for Making Cabbage Roll Soup

• Use fresh cabbage: Fresh, crisp cabbage yields better texture and flavor than pre-shredded supermarket options.
• Brown meat thoroughly: Ensuring the meat is well-browned adds deep, caramelized flavor to your soup.
• Don’t overcook the rice: Keep an eye on the rice so it stays tender but not mushy.
• Let it rest: Allow the soup to sit for 10 minutes off the heat to let flavors meld together beautifully.
• Customize with herbs: Fresh parsley or dill added at serving can brighten and freshen the soup wonderfully.

How to Serve Cabbage Roll Soup

Garnishes

Top your bowl of Cabbage Roll Soup with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for creaminess and tang. Fresh chopped parsley or green onions add a pop of color and freshness to every spoonful.

Side Dishes

Serve this soup alongside crusty bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up the flavorful broth. A crisp green salad or roasted vegetables complement the hearty soup beautifully for a complete meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For gatherings, serve the soup in small mugs or mini bowls for easy, cozy portioning. Layer in a clear glass bowl to showcase the vibrant colors of the ingredients, making it as visually inviting as it is tasty.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cool the soup completely before transferring to airtight containers. It keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days, allowing the flavors to develop even more.

Freezing

This soup freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of broth or water if the soup has thickened to your liking.

FAQs

Can I make Cabbage Roll Soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Brown the meat and sauté the aromatics first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours until the cabbage and rice are tender.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, Cabbage Roll Soup can be gluten-free if you use gluten-free beef broth and ensure your tomato sauce and seasonings don’t contain gluten additives.

What can I use instead of rice?

You can swap rice for quinoa, barley, or even small pasta shapes, but keep in mind cooking times will vary.

Can I freeze the soup with rice inside?

It’s best to cook the rice separately and add it after thawing, since rice can become mushy when frozen and reheated.

How spicy is this soup?

By default, it’s mild and welcoming for all palates, but you can easily add chili flakes or hot sauce for a spicy twist.

Final Thoughts

Give this Cabbage Roll Soup a try whenever you need a comforting hug in a bowl. Its rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and flexible recipe make it one of those dishes you’ll want to return to again and again to warm your heart and satisfy your appetite.

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• Cajun Meatball Stew

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