Growing up, I have so many fond memories of my grandma’s legendary Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe. It was a dish that was always a welcome sight on the dinner table, filling the house with its warm, comforting aroma. I can still picture myself as a little kid, eagerly awaiting the first spoonful, the savory broth and tender cabbage leaves melting in my mouth.
Grandma’s Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe was more than just a meal – it was a cherished family tradition. She’d spend hours lovingly preparing each element, stirring the pot with a wooden spoon and humming softly to herself. There was just something about the way she made it that made it taste so much better than anything I’ve ever had since.
Over the years, I’ve tried to recreate that same magical flavor, but it never quite measured up. That is, until I finally perfected my own Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe. This is the one that’s become a staple in my household, the one that my own kids now clamor for. It’s the Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe that I know you’re going to love just as much as I do.
Why This Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
What sets this Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe apart is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The key is in the way the cabbage is cooked – not too soft, but with just the right amount of bite. And the broth? Oh, the broth! It’s rich, savory, and infused with the essence of the filling ingredients. Trust me, one spoonful and you’ll be hooked.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe, you’ll need a few essential ingredients:
- Cabbage – Look for a fresh, firm head of cabbage that’s free of any bruises or wilted leaves.
- Ground beef – This is the classic filling, but you can also use ground turkey or a plant-based alternative.
- Onion – Diced onion adds depth of flavor to the soup.
- Rice – Cooked rice is a must-have for the filling.
- Tomato sauce – This gives the broth its signature tomatoey tang.
- Beef broth – For a rich, savory base.
- Worcestershire sauce – Just a touch adds a lovely umami note.
- Spices – A blend of garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper brings it all together.
Step-by-Step Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe Instructions
Preparing Your Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
This Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe is surprisingly easy to make, with a total prep and cook time of just about an hour. You’ll need a large pot or Dutch oven, a skillet, and a few basic kitchen tools. Let’s get started!
1- Begin by shredding the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. You want them to be thin but not too fine.
2- In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef until cooked through, making sure to crumble it as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.
3- Add the diced onion to the skillet and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the onion is translucent and fragrant.
4- In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the shredded cabbage, cooked beef and onion mixture, tomato sauce, beef broth, Worcestershire sauce, and all the spices. Bring the soup to a simmer.
5- Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe cook for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender.
6- Ladle the hot soup into bowls and serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley or green onions if desired.
Pro Tips for Success
To really make this Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe shine, here are a few pro tips:
– For an extra-rich broth, use a combination of beef and chicken broth.
– Add a splash of red wine vinegar or lemon juice to brighten up the flavors.
– Customize the spices to your liking – smoked paprika or dried thyme work great.
– Don’t overcook the cabbage – you want it to retain a slight bite.
– If the soup seems too thick, thin it out with a bit of water or broth.
Serving and Storing Your Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
Perfect Pairings for Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
This Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe is the ultimate comfort food, and it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Crusty bread or dinner rolls are a classic, but you can also serve it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables for a more well-rounded meal. And don’t forget the perfect beverage pairing – a glass of red wine or a cold beer really hit the spot.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Luckily, this Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe is even better the next day! The flavors meld together beautifully, and the texture of the cabbage becomes even more tender. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave.
You can also make this soup in advance and freeze it for up to 3 months. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers or bags. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat as usual.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
Creative Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe Variations
While the classic Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe is absolutely delicious, there’s plenty of room for creativity. Try swapping in ground turkey or chicken for the beef, or use a blend of meats. You can also experiment with different types of rice, like wild rice or brown rice, for a heartier texture.
For a vegetarian or vegan version, omit the meat and use veggie broth instead of beef. Load it up with extra veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini. And don’t forget to add some plant-based protein, like lentils or chickpeas, to make it extra satisfying.
Making Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe Diet-Friendly
This Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe is naturally gluten-free, and you can easily make it low-carb or keto-friendly by skipping the rice. Instead, try serving it over cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles.
For a dairy-free version, simply omit the Worcestershire sauce (which may contain dairy) and use a non-dairy milk or broth. And if you’re watching your sodium intake, reduce the amount of salt and opt for low-sodium broth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of meat in this Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe?
A: Absolutely! Ground beef is the classic, but you can also use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based crumbles. Just adjust the cooking time as needed.
Q: How long should I cook the cabbage in the soup?
A: The cabbage should simmer for 30-40 minutes, until it’s tender but still has a slight bite. Avoid overcooking, as the cabbage can become mushy.
Q: Can I make this Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, this soup is perfect for meal prepping! It will keep in the fridge for up to 4 days, and you can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
Q: How many servings does this Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe make?
A: This recipe yields approximately 6-8 servings, depending on the portion size. It’s a hearty soup, so a cup or two per person is usually sufficient.
Q: My soup turned out a bit too thin. How can I thicken it up?
A: If the soup is too thin for your liking, you can try a few things: 1) Let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer to allow some of the liquid to evaporate, 2) Make a slurry with a bit of cornstarch or flour and water, then stir it into the soup, or 3) Puree a portion of the soup and then stir it back in.
Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 35
- Yield: 6
Description
Indulge in the comforting flavors of cabbage rolls with this easy-to-make Cabbage Roll Soup. This hearty, satisfying soup features tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and a rich, tomato-based broth. It’s a cozy and delicious meal that’s perfect for chilly days.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 head of cabbage, chopped
– 2 (15 oz) cans diced tomatoes
– 4 cups beef broth
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. 1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned and crumbled, 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
2. 2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
3. 3. Add the chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes, beef broth, uncooked rice, paprika, and oregano. Stir to combine.
4. 4. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the cabbage is soft.
5. 5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. 6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or dill if desired. Enjoy!
Notes
For a thicker soup, you can add 1-2 tablespoons of tomato paste. To make it more vegetable-forward, add diced carrots or bell peppers. This soup also freezes well for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
I hope this Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe becomes a new favorite in your household, just like it has in mine. It’s the perfect blend of comfort and flavor, and it’s sure to warm you up from the inside out. So what are you waiting for? Give this recipe a try and let me know what you think – I’d love to hear your feedback in the comments!
