Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe

If you love the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls but are looking for a quicker, easier alternative, this Cabbage Roll Soup is the perfect recipe for you. Combining all the delicious elements of classic cabbage rolls into a hearty, warming soup, this dish is ideal for busy weeknights or when you want a meal that feeds a crowd. The simplicity of the ingredients, combined with the rich, savory flavors, makes this soup a must-try for anyone who enjoys home-cooked comfort food.

What is Cabbage Roll Soup?

Cabbage Roll Soup is a deconstructed version of the beloved Eastern European cabbage rolls, where cabbage leaves are typically stuffed with a mixture of meat and rice, then simmered in a rich tomato sauce. In this soup version, all the components are cooked together in one pot, eliminating the need for rolling and stuffing, and significantly cutting down on preparation time. The result is a hearty soup that offers the same comforting taste but with much less effort.

Ingredients Breakdown

Each ingredient in this Cabbage Roll Soup plays a crucial role in building its rich, layered flavor. Let’s take a closer look at what goes into this comforting dish:

• Vegetable Oil (2 tsp.): This is used to sauté the beef, giving it a nice sear and adding a bit of richness to the soup.
• Lean Ground Beef (1 lb.): The primary protein source in the soup, ground beef brings a robust flavor and satisfying texture.
• Salt and Pepper: These are essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of all the other ingredients.
• Yellow Onion (1 medium, diced finely): Onions provide a sweet, aromatic base that deepens the flavor of the soup.
• Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Garlic adds a punch of savory goodness that complements the beef and tomato sauce.
• Green Cabbage (4 cups, chopped): The star of the soup, cabbage adds texture and a slightly sweet, earthy flavor.
• Carrots (2 medium, quartered and sliced): Carrots contribute a bit of sweetness and color to the soup.
• Low-Sodium Beef Broth (4 cups): This forms the base of the soup, adding depth and a savory richness.
• Tomato Sauce (3 cans, 8 oz. each): The tomato sauce gives the soup its characteristic tangy, slightly sweet flavor, tying all the ingredients together.
• White Rice (1/2 cup, uncooked): Rice adds body and heartiness to the soup, making it a complete meal.
• Bay Leaf (1): Bay leaf infuses the soup with a subtle, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste.
• Light Brown Sugar (3 tbsp.): The sugar balances the acidity of the tomato sauce, adding a gentle sweetness.
• Fresh Parsley (2 tbsp., chopped): Parsley adds a fresh, herbal note to the soup, providing a bright finish.

this RECIPE

Step-by-Step Preparation Guide

Browning the Ground Beef

Start by heating the vegetable oil in a dutch oven or large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the lean ground beef and season it with salt and pepper. Allow the beef to brown evenly, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Browning the beef first is essential as it builds a flavor foundation for the soup.

Cooking the Vegetables

Once the beef is browned, add the finely diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté the mixture for another 2-3 minutes until the onions become tender and translucent. This step is crucial because it helps develop a rich, savory flavor that will infuse the entire soup.

Adding the Broth and Rice

Next, stir in the chopped cabbage, quartered and sliced carrots, tomato sauce, beef broth, uncooked white rice, bay leaf, and light brown sugar. Make sure to mix everything well to ensure the ingredients are evenly distributed. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer. The rice will cook directly in the broth, soaking up all the flavors.

Final Touches

Allow the soup to simmer for about 25 minutes or until the rice is tender. Once the cooking time is up, remove the bay leaf, as leaving it in could overpower the soup’s flavor. Finish the soup by sprinkling it with fresh chopped parsley, which adds a burst of color and a hint of herbal freshness.

Tips for Perfect Cabbage Roll Soup

Choosing the Right Cabbage

For the best results, use green cabbage, which has a slightly sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with the savory beef and tangy tomato sauce. Make sure to chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces to ensure even cooking.

Adjusting the Consistency

If you prefer a thicker soup, you can reduce the amount of beef broth slightly or allow the soup to simmer a bit longer, which will help it reduce and thicken. For a thinner consistency, simply add a bit more broth or water until you reach your desired thickness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overcooking the Rice

One common mistake is overcooking the rice, which can make it mushy and absorb too much of the soup’s liquid. Keep a close eye on the soup as it simmers, and test the rice periodically to ensure it’s cooked just right.

Not Seasoning Properly

Seasoning is key to making this soup shine. Don’t be afraid to taste and adjust the salt and pepper as needed, especially before serving. Proper seasoning will elevate the flavors of all the ingredients.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Garnishing Ideas

To make your Cabbage Roll Soup even more appealing, garnish each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream. This adds a fresh, vibrant look and a touch of creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the rich tomato broth.

Pairing with Side Dishes

This hearty soup pairs well with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad. The bread is perfect for dipping into the flavorful broth, while the salad adds a refreshing contrast to the warm, comforting soup.

Variations of Cabbage Roll Soup

Substituting Ground Beef

If you’re looking to switch things up, you can easily substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version. These alternatives will still provide a satisfying, meaty texture while reducing the fat content.

Adding Extra Vegetables

Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers, celery, or zucchini to the soup. These additions will enhance the nutritional value and add extra layers of flavor and texture to the dish.

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Best Storage Practices

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This soup also freezes well; just make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Reheating Tips

To reheat, simply warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until it’s heated through. If the soup has thickened too much in the refrigerator or freezer, you can add a bit of water or broth to loosen it up.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can You Make This Soup Ahead of Time?

Yes, Cabbage Roll Soup is an excellent make-ahead dish. The flavors continue to develop as it sits, making it even tastier the next day. Simply reheat and serve when you’re ready to enjoy it.

Can You Freeze Cabbage Roll Soup?

Absolutely! This soup freezes wonderfully. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.

Conclusion

This Cabbage Roll Soup recipe is perfect for those looking to enjoy the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls with much less effort. It’s a hearty, satisfying dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try and see how easy and delicious this deconstructed version of a classic can be.

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