With the arrival of autumn, the air takes on a refreshing crispness, and the leaves burst into vibrant hues. Few things soothe the soul quite like a bowl of homemade soup. Cabbage roll soup, with its classic flavors, is especially comforting. My grandmother’s cabbage rolls were a family tradition, filled with Eastern European heritage.
But making those rolls was time-consuming, especially on busy weeknights.
A cozy bowl of cabbage roll soup, rich and hearty, featuring tender cabbage leaves, ground meat, and rice simmered in a flavorful tomato broth, garnished with fresh herbs, all set against a rustic wooden table with a warm, inviting atmosphere.
This simple and comforting Cabbage Roll Soup is a game-changer. It captures all the classic flavors of traditional cabbage rolls in one easy-to-make pot, letting you savor the warmth without the fuss. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you’ll have a hearty meal ready in no time.
Whether you’re looking for a taste of grandma’s kitchen or a new cozy recipe, this soup is a family favorite waiting to happen.
Key Takeaways
- Comforting Cabbage Roll Soup is a hearty, flavorful dish that captures the essence of traditional cabbage rolls.
- This deconstructed version saves time and effort while delivering the same satisfying flavors.
- The soup is filled with ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and cabbage, simmered in a rich beef-based broth.
- It’s a healthy, versatile meal that’s perfect for chilly autumn evenings or any time you crave a cozy, comforting bowl of soup.
- With easy-to-follow instructions and simple ingredients, this recipe is a great choice for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Understanding the Heritage of Traditional Cabbage Rolls
Cabbage rolls come from eastern european cuisine. They are a treasured grandma’s classic dish passed down through generations. This soup version brings the traditional flavors to today’s table. It’s a cozy family recipe that’s easy to make and full of heritage.
Eastern European Origins and Family Traditions
The story of cabbage rolls starts in Eastern Europe. Families have made this dish for centuries. Poland, Russia, Romania, and Hungary each have their own special way of making it.
From Grandmother’s Kitchen to Modern Table
This cabbage roll soup honors those old family recipes. It takes the traditional dish and makes it easy to enjoy. The ingredients gently simmer in the broth, resulting in a meal that is not only comforting but also satisfying for the whole family.
| Cabbage Rolls Recipe Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Large head of cabbage | 1 (about 3 lbs.) |
| Diced onion | 1 cup |
| Garlic cloves | 2 |
| Finely diced mushroom (optional) | 1 large |
| Ground sirloin | 1 pound |
| Uncooked long grain rice (brown or white) | 3/4 cup |
| Chopped parsley | 1/4 cup |
| Pomi strained tomatoes or canned tomato puree | 1 cup |
| Salt | 1 1/2 teaspoons |
A cozy kitchen scene featuring a steaming pot of cabbage roll soup, surrounded by fresh ingredients like cabbage leaves, rice, herbs, and spices, evoking traditional Eastern European cuisine, warm colors, rustic wooden table, soft natural lighting.
Why This Deconstructed Version Saves Time and Effort
The traditional cabbage roll recipe is time-consuming. But, this cabbage roll soup version is quicker and just as tasty. It’s an easy one-pot meal that makes cooking simpler.
This recipe mixes all the key ingredients, like savory ground beef filling, in one pot. This way, the flavors blend well as it cooks. You get a hearty meal with less prep time.
- The recipe uses only 1 pound of 90% lean ground beef for its rich taste without too much grease.
- It includes 2 teaspoons of olive oil for sautéing the vegetables.
- The Ninja Food Chopper Express Chop, available for $18.99 on Amazon, is suggested for efficient cutting and dicing of the vegetables.
This cabbage roll soup is perfect for busy weeknights. It takes just 30 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to simmer. Plus, it freezes well, making it great for meal prep.
| Traditional Cabbage Rolls | Deconstructed Cabbage Roll Soup |
|---|---|
| Almost 2 hours to prepare | 25 minutes of hands-on time, 45-minute slow simmer |
| Requires time-consuming stuffing and rolling of cabbage leaves | All ingredients combined in a single pot for easier preparation |
| Serves 4-6 people | Serves 6 people |
By turning the traditional cabbage rolls into a single-pot recipe, we save time and effort. Yet, we still enjoy the same delicious flavors.
A cozy kitchen scene featuring a steaming pot of vibrant cabbage roll soup, fresh ingredients like cabbage, tomatoes, and rice scattered around, a wooden spoon resting beside the pot, warm lighting creating an inviting atmosphere, and a hint of herbs sprinkled on top for garnish.
Essential Ingredients for Perfect Cabbage Roll Soup
Making a cozy cabbage roll soup needs the right ingredients. At its core is a tangy tomato broth. It mixes meats, fresh veggies, and pantry items.
Choosing the Right Meat Combination
The recipe uses 2 pounds of lean ground beef. Feel free to swap in ground chicken, turkey, or pork for a delicious twist. This makes the soup rich and filling.
Fresh Produce and Pantry Staples
- Use 6 cups of low-sodium beef broth to create a hearty and flavorful base.
- 1 large yellow onion, diced for aromatic depth
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced to add depth of flavor
- 1/3 cup of long-grain rice to thicken the soup
- 16 ounces of shredded cabbage or coleslaw mix for the signature texture
- 1 (15-ounce) can of diced tomatoes for a tangy touch
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste to further enhance the tomato flavor
Broth and Seasoning Selection
The soup gets its flavor from paprika, dried thyme, Worcestershire sauce, and bay leaves. This mix makes the tomato broth tangy. It’s perfect with the hearty ingredients, making it a favorite in cold weather.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Making hearty cabbage roll soup is easy. Start by browning the lean ground beef with diced onion and minced garlic in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Once the beef is cooked through and the onions are translucent, add the chopped green cabbage. Continue cooking until the cabbage has softened, about 5-7 minutes.
Next, stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, uncooked white rice, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and savory seasonings. These include dried oregano, basil, and bay leaves. Bring the soup to a boil, then lower the heat to let it simmer gently. Cover and let it simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
- Brown the lean ground beef with onion and garlic in a large pot.
- Add the chopped green cabbage and cook until softened.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, uncooked rice, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and seasonings.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 30-35 minutes until the rice is cooked.
- Remove the bay leaves before serving the hearty cabbage roll soup.
The result is a comforting and flavorful one-pot meal. It captures the essence of traditional cabbage rolls in an easy-to-make soup form. Serve this hearty cabbage soup warm. Enjoy the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and tender cabbage in every spoonful.
Comforting Cabbage Roll Soup: The Perfect One-Pot Meal
Cabbage roll soup is a cozy family recipe. It combines the savory ground beef filling and tender cabbage of traditional cabbage rolls. This dish is hearty and rich, offering a satisfying texture that warms you from the inside out.
Texture and Consistency Tips
The soup’s thickness and consistency are just right. This is thanks to 2 small diced carrots, 3 stalks of celery, 2 cans of crushed tomatoes, and 1 can of tomato paste. If you prefer a thinner consistency, simply stir in extra beef broth or water. The tender cabbage and savory ground beef filling make a nourishing and delightful base.
Serving Suggestions
Cabbage roll soup is perfect as a one-pot meal. It’s even better with sides. Serve it with a fresh green salad and garlic bread, breadsticks, or dinner rolls for a cozy family dinner. The 132 shares for this recipe show it’s a crowd-pleaser, great for feeding a hungry household or hosting a casual gathering.
Customization Options and Variations
This stuffed cabbage soup recipe is very versatile. Customize it to suit your dietary preferences or explore new flavors. For a vegetarian option, use diced peppers, mushrooms, or Impossible meat instead of ground meat. You can also adjust the soup’s thickness by adding more broth or water.
Want to try different meats? Use ground pork, chicken, or turkey instead of beef and pork. Adding a bit of Worcestershire or soy sauce can enhance the flavor. You can also play with herbs and spices like Italian, Greek, or Mexican seasonings.
| Variation | Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Vegetarian | Diced red and green peppers, mushrooms, Impossible™ meat |
| Different Meats | Ground pork, chicken, or turkey |
| Flavor Profiles | Italian, Greek, or Mexican seasonings |
| Thickness | Adjust broth or water to desired consistency |
For a creamier soup, add a splash of heavy cream near the end. For a low-carb option, swap out white or brown rice for cauliflower rice. This eastern european cuisine inspired stuffed cabbage soup can be tailored to your liking. Let your creativity in the kitchen shine and enjoy the flavors in a new way.
Storage and Freezing Guidelines
After making your comforting cabbage roll soup or hearty cabbage soup, it’s important to store it right. This maintains the perfect balance of flavor and texture. Follow these tips to enjoy your soup for days.
Refrigeration Best Practices
Let the soup cool down first. Next, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 4 days. This keeps your cabbage roll soup or cabbage soup fresh and ready for a comforting meal.
Freezing and Reheating Methods
For longer storage, freeze your comforting cabbage roll soup or hearty cabbage soup. Cool it down completely, then put it in a container that seals well. Leave about 3/4 inch of space at the top for it to expand. Freeze it for up to 3 months.
To thaw and reheat, let it thaw in the fridge overnight. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply heat it on the stovetop or in the microwave. This way, your cabbage roll soup or cabbage soup stays delicious and tasty.
By storing and freezing your cabbage roll soup or cabbage soup correctly, you can enjoy it for a long time. Enjoy every spoonful!
Nutritional Benefits and Dietary Considerations
This cold-weather comfort food recipe, Cabbage Roll Soup, is both tasty and healthy. It’s a healthy and hearty meal that’s good for you. Each serving is full of nutrients to help keep you well.
The soup’s ingredients, like ground beef, cabbage, and fresh veggies, make it very nutritious. A serving has about 323 calories, 28g of carbs, 31g of protein, and 10g of fat. It’s a meal that’s both filling and balanced.
Cabbage is a key ingredient, packed with fiber, vitamins, and minerals. It’s full of Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and folate. These nutrients are antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. The lean ground beef adds quality protein, while the veggies bring in different phytochemicals.
If you’re watching your sodium, you can use low-sodium beef broth. This change lowers the soup’s sodium. It’s a great option for those with dietary needs or who want a healthier meal.
Looking for a warm meal or a healthy and hearty meal? This Cabbage Roll Soup is perfect. It’s comforting and nutritious, making it a great choice for any meal.
Conclusion
Comforting Cabbage Roll Soup combines the rich flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage into a simple, hearty soup. This recipe keeps the heart of the classic dish but makes it easier to make. It’s perfect for those who want a comforting meal without much fuss.
This comforting Cabbage Roll Soup is perfect for family dinners or cozy evenings at home. It’s filled with hearty ingredients and savory flavors. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be customized to fit your taste.
If you’re craving the flavors of your grandmother’s kitchen or just a hearty meal, this soup is for you. It’s a delicious and easy option that will make you feel full and happy. Try it out and enjoy the taste of tradition in a new way.
FAQ
What is Comforting Cabbage Roll Soup?
Comforting Cabbage Roll Soup is a thick, hearty dish. It’s inspired by stuffed cabbage rolls. It has ground beef, rice, tomatoes, and cabbage, all in a rich tomato broth.
What are the origins of Cabbage Roll Soup?
Cabbage rolls come from Eastern European cuisine. They’ve been passed down for generations. This soup version brings those flavors to today’s table, making it easy to enjoy.
How does this deconstructed version save time and effort?
This version of cabbage rolls is quicker and easier. It’s a one-pot meal that keeps all the flavors. It’s a big time-saver compared to making traditional stuffed cabbage rolls.
What are the key ingredients in Comforting Cabbage Roll Soup?
The soup includes lean ground beef, onion, garlic, and rice. It also has chopped cabbage, tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth. Seasonings like paprika and thyme add flavor.
How do you make Comforting Cabbage Roll Soup?
Brown the ground beef with onion and garlic in a pot. Add chopped cabbage and cook until it’s soft. Next, stir in the tomatoes, tomato paste, broth, rice, and spices.
Bring it to a boil, then simmer for 30-35 minutes. This cooks the rice.
How can you customize or vary the Comforting Cabbage Roll Soup recipe?
You can make this soup your own. For a vegetarian version, use a meat substitute or skip the meat. Use vegetable broth instead. You can also change the thickness by adding more broth.
Try using ground pork or a mix of meats for a different taste.
How should you store and reheat Comforting Cabbage Roll Soup?
Cool the soup to room temperature before storing. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For freezing, use an airtight container and leave space at the top.
Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. If frozen, thaw the soup in the fridge before reheating.
What are the nutritional benefits of Comforting Cabbage Roll Soup?
This soup is not just tasty, but also healthy. It’s full of protein from the beef and fiber from the cabbage. It’s a balanced meal perfect for cold weather.
Make Cabbage Roll Soup Like a Pro – Full Recipe And Tips
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 medium head of cabbage chopped
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 1 can 14.5 oz diced tomatoes
- 1 can 6 oz tomato paste
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar optional, for tang
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Chop the cabbage, onion, and garlic. Set aside.
- Cook the beef: In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. Drain excess fat if needed.
- Sauté the aromatics: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pot with the beef. Cook for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Simmer the soup: Add the cabbage, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, rice, oregano, basil, paprika, and bay leaf. Stir to combine. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cook the soup: Cover and let the soup simmer for about 40 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the cabbage is soft.
- Season and serve: Remove the bay leaf. Taste the soup and season with salt, pepper, and apple cider vinegar if desired.
- Serve hot: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy!
Notes
- Storage: This soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers.
- Rice: You can substitute the rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a gluten-free or low-carb option.
- Flavor boost: For extra flavor, add a dollop of sour cream or fresh herbs like parsley when serving.