Warm and comforting, cabbage roll soup is a delightful twist on the classic dish. This recipe combines all the familiar flavors of cabbage rolls into a hearty soup that is both satisfying and easy to prepare. Perfect for chilly evenings, this soup is packed with nutrients and flavor, making it a perfect dish for families or gatherings. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the cooking process to create this wonderful dish.
Ingredients
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 carrots, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup rice (uncooked)
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 6 people. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is approximately 45 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1 cup): 250 calories, 15g fat, 20g carbohydrates, 10g protein, 3g fiber. This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until cooked through.
2. Add the diced onion and carrots; sauté until softened.
3. Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add chopped cabbage and sauté until slightly wilted.
5. Pour in the diced tomatoes and beef broth.
6. Mix in the tomato paste, paprika, salt, and pepper.
7. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat.
8. Stir in the uncooked rice; cover and simmer for 30 minutes.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. Additionally, brown rice can replace white rice for a healthier choice. Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or corn for added flavor.
Serving and Pairings
Cabbage roll soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it with garlic bread for a delightful contrast in textures.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the rice can make it mushy; add it towards the end of cooking.
- Using too much cabbage can overpower the broth; stick to one medium head.
- Forgetting to season can leave the soup bland; taste and adjust as needed.
- Not browning the meat properly can result in a greasy soup.
- Using low-quality broth can affect the overall flavor; opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought.
Helpful Tips
- Let the soup sit for a while; flavors develop as it cools.
- Garnish with fresh herbs for added freshness.
- Use leftover roast meat to save time and add flavor.
- Adjust the thickness by adding more broth or water if desired.
FAQs
Can I use frozen cabbage in this recipe?
Yes, frozen cabbage can be used, but it may alter the texture slightly. Thaw and drain excess water before adding it to the soup.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make this soup vegetarian, substitute the ground meat with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
What types of rice work best in this soup?
White rice, brown rice, or even wild rice can be used. Adjust cooking times accordingly based on the type of rice.
Can I add beans to the soup?
Absolutely! Adding beans can enhance the protein content and texture. Canned beans can be thrown in during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
How do I know when the soup is done cooking?
The soup is done when the rice is tender and the flavors have melded together, which usually takes about 30 minutes after adding the rice.
Conclusion
Cabbage roll soup is a delicious and hearty dish that brings comfort in a bowl. With its rich flavors and satisfying ingredients, it’s a perfect meal for any occasion. Enjoy this recipe with family and friends, and don’t forget to explore variations to make it your own!
Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cabbage chopped
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 onion diced
- 2 carrots diced
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 can 14 oz diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 cup rice uncooked
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat until cooked through.
- Add the diced onion and carrots; sauté until softened.
- Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Add chopped cabbage and sauté until slightly wilted.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes and beef broth.
- Mix in the tomato paste, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat.
- Stir in the uncooked rice; cover and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
