Cabbage Roll Soup is a comforting dish that captures the essence of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls in a warm and hearty bowl. This flavorful soup combines tender cabbage, ground meat, rice, and spices simmered to perfection. It’s a delightful way to enjoy all the classic flavors without the hassle of rolling individual cabbage leaves. Not only is this recipe easy to prepare, but it also allows you to customize ingredients based on your preferences. Whether you’re looking for a weeknight dinner option or a cozy meal for chilly days, Cabbage Roll Soup has you covered. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients and can easily be made in larger batches for meal prep or leftovers.
This recipe offers both convenience and taste. With just a few simple steps and easily accessible ingredients, you’ll have a delicious pot of soup ready in no time. It’s an excellent choice for families or anyone looking to enjoy healthy comfort food that satisfies hunger while being nutritious.
Why You’ll Love This Cabbage Roll Soup
Why You’ll Love This Cabbage Roll Soup
- Quick and Easy: Minimal prep time and straightforward steps make this recipe stress-free, even for novice cooks
- Flavorful and Versatile: Enjoy outstanding flavor with ingredients you can easily customize by adding your favorites or adjusting spices
- Perfect for Any Occasion: Ideal for casual gatherings, holiday celebrations, or weeknight dinners
Ingredients for Cabbage Roll Soup
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Ground Beef or Turkey: Choose lean ground meat for a healthier option that still provides rich flavor.
- Onion: Fresh onions add depth; use yellow or white onions for the best results.
- Garlic: Minced garlic enhances flavor; opt for fresh cloves rather than pre-minced varieties.
- Cabbage: Select firm heads of green cabbage; they hold up well during cooking.
- Rice: Uncooked white or brown rice works well; adjust cooking time based on the type used.
- Crushed Tomatoes: Use canned crushed tomatoes for convenience; they provide acidity and sweetness.
- Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth adds flavor while keeping salt levels manageable.
- Dried Herbs (Thyme and Oregano): These herbs bring warmth to the soup; dry herbs are convenient but fresh can enhance taste if available.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Cabbage Roll Soup
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté chopped onions until they become translucent. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
Add ground beef or turkey to the pot and cook until browned thoroughly. Break it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks.
Step 3: Incorporate the Rice
Stir in uncooked rice along with crushed tomatoes and chicken broth. Mix well so that all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Add Seasonings
Sprinkle in dried thyme and oregano along with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together before moving on to the next step.
Step 5: Simmer with Cabbage
Add chopped cabbage into the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes until rice is cooked and cabbage is tender.
Step 6: Serve Hot
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving hot in bowls. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
Tips and Tricks
Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:
- Even Cooking: Make sure all ingredients are cut to similar sizes for consistent cooking times
- Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to toss in more vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition
- Meal Prep Friendly: This soup freezes well; store it in airtight containers for quick meals later
Enjoy crafting your very own bowl of Cabbage Roll Soup!
How to Serve Cabbage Roll Soup
This Cabbage Roll Soup is versatile and pairs wonderfully with:
- Rice or Potatoes: A hearty base that soaks up the delicious sauce.
- Fresh Salad: Adds a crisp and refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for enjoying every last drop of the flavorful sauce.
Feel free to pair it with your favorite sides for a personalized meal!
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the soup components, such as chopping vegetables and browning meat, a day in advance. Store these ingredients separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
- Storing: Leftover Cabbage Roll Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze it in portions for up to three months, ensuring you use freezer-safe containers.
- Reheating: To reheat, thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator. Then, warm it on the stovetop over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes until heated through, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in short intervals, stirring in between.
Suggestions for Cabbage Roll Soup
Use Fresh Ingredients
One common mistake when making Cabbage Roll Soup is using wilted or old vegetables. Fresh ingredients significantly enhance the flavor and texture of your soup. When selecting cabbage, look for heads that are firm and heavy for their size, with crisp leaves. Fresh tomatoes, bell peppers, and herbs add vibrant flavors that dried or canned versions cannot replicate. By prioritizing fresh produce, you not only elevate your dish but also ensure a nutritious meal. Always check the expiration dates on any broth or canned goods to maintain quality throughout your cooking process.
Monitor Cooking Time
Another frequent error is overcooking the ingredients in Cabbage Roll Soup. While simmering is essential for blending flavors, prolonged cooking can lead to mushy vegetables and loss of nutrients. Aim for a balance where the cabbage remains tender yet retains a slight crunch. It’s best to add heartier ingredients like carrots and celery first, allowing them to soften before introducing more delicate items like cabbage or herbs. Keep an eye on the clock and taste as you go to achieve the perfect texture.
Adjust Seasoning Gradually
Many cooks make the mistake of adding too much seasoning at once when preparing Cabbage Roll Soup. Start with a base of salt and pepper, then gradually incorporate herbs such as dill or parsley. This method allows you to control flavor intensity and avoid overwhelming your palate with saltiness or spice. Remember that flavors will deepen as the soup simmers, so it’s wise to taste throughout the cooking process before making final adjustments at the end.
Don’t Skip the Acid
A vital component often overlooked in Cabbage Roll Soup is acidity. Adding a splash of vinegar or lemon juice brightens up the dish and balances out richer flavors from meat and tomatoes. Without this crucial element, your soup may taste flat or one-dimensional. Introduce acid towards the end of cooking to preserve its vibrant flavor profile. Experiment with different types of vinegar—balsamic adds sweetness while apple cider provides a fruity note—to find what complements your soup best.
FAQs
What are the best types of cabbage for Cabbage Roll Soup?
When making Cabbage Roll Soup, green cabbage is the most commonly used due to its sturdy leaves that hold up well during cooking. However, savoy cabbage is another excellent choice because it has softer leaves that become tender quickly while still offering a mild flavor. You can even mix varieties to create depth in taste and texture in your soup. Just remember that whatever cabbage you choose should be fresh to ensure optimal flavor.
Can I make Cabbage Roll Soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! To create a vegetarian version of Cabbage Roll Soup, simply replace meat with lentils or mushrooms for added protein and texture. Vegetable broth should substitute regular broth to enhance flavor without animal products. You can also increase the quantity of beans or add grains like quinoa for heartiness. The key is balancing flavors by using fresh herbs and spices, ensuring your vegetarian soup remains rich and satisfying.
How long does Cabbage Roll Soup last in the fridge?
Cabbage Roll Soup typically lasts about 3-5 days in the refrigerator when stored properly in an airtight container. To maintain freshness, allow it to cool completely before refrigerating it. If you’re looking to keep it longer than five days, consider freezing portions instead; this can extend its shelf life up to three months! Just remember to reheat thoroughly before serving again.
Can I freeze Cabbage Roll Soup?
Yes! Freezing Cabbage Roll Soup is an excellent way to preserve leftovers for future meals. Ensure that it cools completely before transferring it into freezer-safe containers or bags; removing excess air helps prevent freezer burn. Label each container with the date so you can track how long it has been stored. When ready to enjoy again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on low heat until warmed through.
Conclusion for Cabbage Roll Soup
In summary, creating delicious Cabbage Roll Soup requires attention to detail regarding ingredients, cooking time, seasoning adjustments, and acidity balance. Using fresh vegetables enhances both flavor and nutrition while monitoring cooking prevents undesirable textures. Gradually adjusting seasoning allows you to achieve just the right taste without overpowering other components of your soup. Finally, don’t forget about adding acid towards the end of cooking; this brightens overall flavor significantly! With these tips in mind, you’ll master a comforting bowl of Cabbage Roll Soup perfect for any occasion.
Cabbage Roll Soup
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: Serves 6
Description
Cabbage Roll Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that brings the classic flavors of stuffed cabbage rolls into a warm bowl of deliciousness. This easy-to-make soup features tender cabbage, savory ground meat, and wholesome rice, all simmered together with aromatic spices for an unforgettable flavor experience. Perfect for busy weeknights or cozy gatherings, this recipe is easily customizable to suit your taste preferences. Packed with nutrients, it’s not just a satisfying meal but also an excellent option for meal prep or leftovers. Serve it hot and enjoy every spoonful of this delightful comfort food!
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium head green cabbage, chopped
- 1 cup uncooked rice (white or brown)
- 2 cans (14 oz each) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, sauté chopped onions in olive oil until translucent; add minced garlic.
- Add ground meat to the pot and brown thoroughly.
- Stir in uncooked rice, crushed tomatoes, and chicken broth; mix well.
- Season with thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Add chopped cabbage; bring to a boil then reduce heat to simmer for 30-40 minutes until rice is tender.
- Serve hot; garnish with fresh herbs if desired.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
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