If you’re craving a warm, comforting dish that brings back memories of home-cooked meals, this cabbage roll soup recipe is just what you need. This soup combines the classic flavors of stuffed cabbage rolls with a hearty broth, making it a perfect meal for any day. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Let’s dive into the ingredients and cooking process to create this delightful dish!
Ingredients
– 1 large head of cabbage
– 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp pepper
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 20 minutes, and cooking time is around 45 minutes, making it a total of 1 hour and 5 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately:
– Calories: 320
– Protein: 20g
– Carbohydrates: 30g
– Fat: 12g
– Fiber: 3g
This nutritional breakdown is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Begin by removing the core of the cabbage and boiling the head in salted water for about 5-7 minutes until the leaves are tender.
2. While the cabbage is boiling, heat a large pot over medium heat and add chopped onions and minced garlic. Sauté until the onions are translucent.
3. Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
5. Pour in the beef broth and bring the mixture to a simmer.
6. Carefully peel off the cabbage leaves and set them aside to cool slightly.
7. Once the broth is simmering, take each cabbage leaf and fill it with the meat mixture, rolling it up tightly.
8. Place the rolled cabbage leaves into the soup, cover, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper to taste.
10. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
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 grain. If you’re vegetarian, consider using lentils or mushrooms as a filling alternative.
Serving and Pairings
This cabbage roll soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad. A dollop of sour cream on top adds a creamy touch, enhancing the flavors of the soup.
Storage and Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat until heated through. This soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure it’s in a freezer-safe container.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t overcook the cabbage leaves; they should be pliable but not mushy.
– Ensure the meat is thoroughly cooked before adding it to the soup.
– Use enough broth to prevent the soup from being too thick.
– Be cautious not to over-season; you can always add more later.
– Avoid crowding the pot; give the cabbage rolls enough space to cook evenly.
Helpful Tips
– Use a slow cooker for a hands-off approach; just set it and forget it!
– Experiment with different spices to customize the flavor.
– For added depth, consider adding a splash of vinegar or lemon juice before serving.
– Cook a double batch to enjoy leftovers or freeze for later.
FAQs
Can I make cabbage roll soup in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the soup a day in advance. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, making it even tastier the next day.
Is cabbage roll soup gluten-free?
Yes, if you use gluten-free rice and check the broth for gluten-free labeling, this soup can be gluten-free.
How can I make this soup spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup during cooking for an extra kick.
Can I use frozen cabbage?
Yes, you can use frozen cabbage, but be sure to thaw it beforehand and drain any excess water.
What sides go well with cabbage roll soup?
Crusty bread, garlic bread, or a fresh garden salad pair well with this hearty soup.
Conclusion
Cabbage roll soup is a delightful comfort food that warms the heart and stomach. With its rich flavors and satisfying ingredients, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or as a cozy weekend meal. Enjoy this recipe with family and friends for a truly comforting experience!
Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 large head of cabbage
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 cup cooked rice
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 can 15 oz diced tomatoes
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp pepper
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Remove the core of the cabbage and boil the head in salted water for about 5-7 minutes until the leaves are tender.
- In a large pot, heat chopped onions and minced garlic over medium heat until translucent.
- Add ground beef to the pot and cook until browned.
- Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in the beef broth and bring to a simmer.
- Peel off cabbage leaves and set aside to cool slightly.
- Fill each cabbage leaf with the meat mixture and roll tightly.
- Place rolled cabbage leaves into the soup, cover, and simmer for about 30 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
