Oh, cabbage roll soup! Let me tell you, this is one of those dishes that instantly warms the soul. I remember the first time I had this delightful meal—it was on a chilly winter evening at my grandmother’s house. She had been simmering this cozy concoction for hours, and the aroma wafting through the house was simply intoxicating. The moment I took my first spoonful, I felt like I was wrapped in a warm blanket, surrounded by love and laughter. That’s the magic of cabbage roll soup; it has this unique ability to evoke memories and create new ones with every serving.
Not only is this soup delicious, but it’s also a fantastic twist on the traditional cabbage rolls usually served in a hearty tomato sauce. You get all the tasty fillings while avoiding the fuss of rolling up the leaves! Plus, every bite is packed with vitamins, flavors, and a little nostalgia for me. So let’s dive into why you’ll love making this soup just as much as I do!
What’s in Cabbage Roll Soup?
Cabbage: The star of the show! Cabbage not only adds a wonderful texture but is also loaded with nutrients. I prefer using green cabbage for a classic flavor, but feel free to experiment with savoy or Napa for a twist!
Ground Beef or Turkey: This adds the protein and heartiness to the soup. I usually go for lean ground beef, but turkey is a great lower-fat option. It takes on the lovely flavors of the broth exceptionally well!
Onion: A flavor enhancer! Onions are a must to build that aromatic base. I sometimes add shallots for a richer flavor, but yellow onions work just fine!
Garlic: Because let’s be honest, everything is better with garlic. It provides a lovely aroma and a bit of zing to the soup. Freshly minced garlic is my go-to; it really elevates the dish.
Rice: We need something to soak up all that broth! I usually use long-grain white rice, but brown rice can work too, though it may require a bit of extra cooking time.
Tomatoes: A can of diced tomatoes brings in the acidity and richness that balances the flavors beautifully. I often choose fire-roasted diced tomatoes for an extra layer of flavor.
Vegetable or Beef Broth: This is the liquid gold of our soup! A good-quality broth enhances the overall flavor. Homemade broth is the best, but I often grab low-sodium versions at the store to keep it healthier.
Seasonings: A mix of salt, black pepper, and dried herbs like oregano or thyme make this soup sing. I like to add a pinch of paprika for a subtle smokiness.
Is Cabbage Roll Soup Good for You?
Absolutely! This cabbage roll soup is not just comfort food; it’s loaded with health benefits.
Cabbage: This leafy green is a powerhouse of vitamins C and K, which are excellent for boosting the immune system and promoting healthy skin.
Ground Meat: Whether you choose beef or turkey, you’ll get essential protein to keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Rice: The carbohydrates from rice provide energy, making this soup a nourishing meal option.
The only consideration is portion control, as it’s easy to go back for seconds (or thirds) when it’s so delicious! Just be mindful if you follow a low-carb diet—simply omit the rice or swap it with cauliflower rice for a lighter version.
Ingredients List
– 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
– 1 lb ground beef or turkey
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 3/4 cup rice, uncooked
– 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes, with juice
– 4 cups vegetable or beef broth
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Optional: a pinch of paprika for smokiness
This recipe serves 6-8 people, making it perfect for batch cooking or sharing with loved ones.
How to Make Cabbage Roll Soup?
1. In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
3. Add the ground beef or turkey to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Once the meat is browned, drain excess fat if necessary. Then add the chopped cabbage and stir well.
5. Next, add the rice, diced tomatoes, broth, and seasoning (salt, pepper, oregano, thyme, and paprika if using).
6. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes until the rice is tender and the cabbage is soft.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If it feels like something is missing, a dash of hot sauce can do wonders!
8. Serve warm, garnished with a sprinkle of parsley if desired.
Hearty Tips for Cabbage Roll Lovers
– If you want to make this soup even heartier, consider adding shredded carrots or bell peppers for extra veggies!
– Want to skip the rice? You can substitute it with quinoa or lentils for a nutritious twist!
– Leftovers are amazing! In fact, they might taste even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
Don’t be surprised if this cabbage roll soup becomes a regular in your rotation. It’s the kind of warm hug in a bowl that you’ll turn to time and time again. So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and give this recipe a whirl! I’d love to hear how it turns out when you make it. Happy cooking!
