Cabbage Roll Soup is a delightful comfort dish that brings together the hearty flavors of classic cabbage rolls into a warm, soothing soup. If you’re a fan of savory and nourishing meals that are both easy to prepare and satisfying to eat, you’re in for a treat. This recipe combines all the essential ingredients of traditional cabbage rolls, wrapped up in a cozy bowl of goodness that is perfect for colder days or whenever you need a warm meal.
Why We Love This Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
This Cabbage Roll Soup recipe is a true crowd-pleaser! Not only is it packed with flavors, but it’s also flexible, allowing you to customize the dish according to your taste preferences. Its comforting and robust flavors make it a meal the whole family can enjoy. You can also whip it up in one pot, which means less cleanup for you after a delicious meal. Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in some veggies, making it a nutritious option that doesn’t skimp on taste.
Ingredients about Cabbage Roll Soup
To make this hearty Cabbage Roll Soup, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
How to Make Cabbage Roll Soup Directions
Creating Cabbage Roll Soup is a straightforward process that rewards you with a flavorful and hearty meal. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. This will create a nice base for your soup.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic into the pot. Sauté them until the onion becomes translucent, which should take about 3-5 minutes. The aroma is going to be uplifting!
- Next, introduce the ground meat of your choice, whether it’s beef or turkey. Break it up as it cooks, and ensure it browns nicely, which should take about 5-7 minutes. You might want to drain any excess grease during this step to keep your soup lighter.
- Once the meat is cooked, it’s time to add flavor. Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and your choice of broth, mixing them well until everything is nicely combined.
- Now it’s time for the star ingredient, the cabbage! Add the chopped cabbage, dried basil, dried oregano, and season with salt and pepper. Make sure everything is well incorporated into the soup.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, and once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This allows the cabbage to become tender and the flavors to meld together beautifully. Make sure to stir occasionally during this time.
- Taste the soup as it cooks and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You can add more salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preference.
- When it’s ready, serve the soup hot! You may choose to top it with fresh herbs for garnish, a dollop of sour cream for extra creaminess, or enjoy it alongside crusty bread for a complete meal.
How to Serve Cabbage Roll Soup
Serving Cabbage Roll Soup can be as simple or as fancy as you like. For a casual meal, ladle the soup into bowls and invite everyone to dig in. If you want to elevate your dining experience, consider garnishing each bowl with chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill. A swirl of sour cream on top adds creaminess and a delightful tang. Pair your soup with some warm and crusty bread or hearty rolls to soak up all those delicious flavors. This soup also works great as a comforting lunch option, served in a thermos for easy transport.
Expert Tips: Cabbage Roll Soup
To make your Cabbage Roll Soup even better, here are some expert tips to enhance your cooking experience:
- Meat Choice: Using ground turkey makes the dish leaner, but ground beef offers a richer, more robust flavor. Choose based on your preference or dietary needs.
- Vegetable Additions: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor. Just chop them small enough to cook through in the same time as the cabbage.
- Leftover Variations: If you have leftover rice, quinoa, or other grains, stir them into the soup during the last 10 minutes of cooking for a heartier version.
- Herb Freshness: If you have fresh herbs on hand, like basil or oregano, feel free to use them! Fresh herbs add a vibrant touch, so you might want to double the quantity as fresh herbs tend to have a lighter flavor compared to dried ones.
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy a little heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to give your soup a kick.
How to Store Cabbage Roll Soup
If you find yourself with leftovers, storing Cabbage Roll Soup is simple. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it! Portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to three months. Just remember to label the containers with the date! When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Variation of Cabbage Roll Soup
While the classic recipe is always a hit, you might want to try some fun variations. Here are a few ideas to inspire your creativity:
- Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground meat with a mix of lentils and mushrooms for a hearty, plant-based version. The lentils add protein, while mushrooms provide a meaty texture.
- Spicy Cabbage Roll Soup: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for a spicy twist. This will add a nice contrast to the inherent sweetness of the cabbage.
- Cheesy Cabbage Roll Soup: For a creamy delight, stir in some shredded cheese, like cheddar or mozzarella, during the last few minutes of cooking. It melts wonderfully and will take your soup to the next level.
- Low-Carb Option: If you prefer a low-carb meal, you can substitute the cabbage for cauliflower rice. This gives you similar consistency and flavor without the extra carbs.
- Asian-Inspired Twist: Incorporate soy sauce, ginger, and a splash of sesame oil for an Asian-inspired version. You can also add bok choy in place of the traditional cabbage for an interesting taste.
FAQ
What can I serve with Cabbage Roll Soup?
You can serve this soup with crusty bread, crackers, or a side salad. A sprinkle of cheese or a dollop of sour cream adds a nice touch too.
How long is Cabbage Roll Soup good for?
When stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container, this soup is good for 3-4 days. If frozen, it can last up to three months.
Can I use fresh cabbage instead of canned?
Absolutely! In fact, fresh cabbage is ideal for this recipe. Just make sure to chop it finely to ensure it cooks properly in the soup.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can! Simply brown the meat in a skillet first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Is it possible to make Cabbage Roll Soup ahead of time?
Yes, you can make it ahead of time! It also tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together. Reheat on the stove before serving.
Cabbage Roll Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef or turkey Lean ground turkey can be used for a lighter option.
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 14.5 oz can diced tomatoes
- 8 oz can tomato sauce
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 small head cabbage, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- to taste salt and pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil For sautéing.
Instructions
Preparation
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic into the pot and sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- Introduce the ground meat of your choice, breaking it up as it cooks over 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth until well combined.
- Add chopped cabbage, dried basil, dried oregano, and season with salt and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, reduce heat, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs or sour cream if desired.
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