Cabbage Roll Soup

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Cabbage Roll Soup offers the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls in an easy-to-make soup form. This hearty dish combines tender cabbage, savory ground meat, and a rich tomato broth, perfect for warming up chilly evenings.

Ingredients :

  • 1 large onion (diced)
  • 3 cloves garlic (minced)
  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • ½ pound lean ground pork (or additional beef)
  • ¾ cup uncooked long grain rice
  • 1 medium head cabbage (chopped, core removed)
  • 28 oz canned diced tomatoes (with juices)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 4 cups beef broth
  • 1 ½ cups V8 or other vegetable juice
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)

Directions :

  1. Saute and Brown: In a large pot over medium-high heat, brown onion, garlic, pork, and beef. Drain excess fat.
  2. Add Cabbage and Tomatoes: Stir in chopped cabbage until slightly softened, about 3 minutes. Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, beef broth, vegetable juice, rice, paprika, thyme, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  3. Simmer to Perfection: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat. Cover and simmer until rice is fully cooked, approximately 25-30 minutes. Remove bay leaf before serving.

Conclusion Cabbage Roll Soup is a wholesome meal that captures the essence of traditional cabbage rolls with ease. Perfect for family dinners or batch cooking, this soup promises warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful. Enjoy this comforting dish on cold days, and savor its rich flavors that bring warmth to your table.

Nutritional Information

  • Prep Time: 25 min | Cooking Time: 25 min | Total Time: 50 min
  • Calories: Approximately 300 per serving
  • Servings: 8

Serving and Storage Tips:

Serving Suggestions:

  • Serve hot with a side of crusty bread or garlic toast for a complete meal.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor and presentation.
  • Pair with a light salad for a nutritious and satisfying lunch or dinner.

Storage Instructions:

  • Allow soup to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers.
  • Store in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days.
  • For longer storage, freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally.

Additional Tips:

  • Soup may thicken upon cooling; add a splash of broth or water when reheating to adjust consistency.
  • Consider doubling the recipe and freezing individual portions for quick, convenient meals later.

Variations :

  1. Vegetarian Option:
    • Substitute the ground beef and pork with plant-based ground meat or extra firm tofu crumbles.
    • Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a fully vegetarian version.
    • Add extra vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and celery for added texture and flavor.
  2. Low-Carb Version:
    • Replace rice with cauliflower rice or omit it altogether for a lower-carb option.
    • Increase the amount of cabbage and other vegetables to enhance bulk and fiber.
  3. Spicy Twist:
    • Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup for a spicy kick.
    • Include diced jalapeños or serrano peppers for extra heat.
  4. Italian-Inspired Variation:
    • Use Italian sausage instead of ground beef and pork.
    • Season with Italian herbs like oregano, basil, and rosemary for a Mediterranean flavor profile.
    • Substitute tomato paste with sun-dried tomato pesto for added richness.
  5. Asian Fusion Style:
    • Replace Worcestershire sauce with soy sauce or tamari.
    • Incorporate ginger, garlic, and a splash of rice vinegar for an Asian-inspired twist.
    • Garnish with sliced green onions and a drizzle of sesame oil before serving.
  6. Creamy Option:
    • Stir in a cup of heavy cream or coconut milk towards the end of cooking for a creamy texture.
    • Add grated Parmesan cheese or nutritional yeast for extra richness and flavor.
  7. Tex-Mex Flair:
    • Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef and pork.
    • Season with cumin, chili powder, and smoked paprika.
    • Serve with a dollop of sour cream, chopped cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice.
  8. Mushroom Lover’s Version:
    • Add sliced mushrooms along with the cabbage for a hearty, earthy flavor.
    • Use mushroom broth or add dried porcini mushrooms for extra depth of flavor.
  9. Greek-Inspired Variation:
    • Use ground lamb or a mixture of lamb and beef for the meat.
    • Season with Mediterranean herbs like oregano, dill, and cinnamon.
    • Add a splash of lemon juice and garnish with crumbled feta cheese before serving.
  10. Coconut Curry Twist:
    • Replace the tomato base with coconut milk and curry paste for a Thai-inspired flavor.
    • Add vegetables like bell peppers, sweet potatoes, and spinach.
    • Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
  11. Smoky Bacon Infusion:
    • Cook chopped bacon until crispy and use the rendered fat to sauté the onions and garlic.
    • Add smoked paprika and a touch of liquid smoke for a robust, smoky flavor.
    • Top with crispy bacon bits and a dollop of sour cream.
  12. Middle Eastern Influence:
    • Use ground lamb or beef seasoned with Middle Eastern spices like cumin, coriander, and cinnamon.
    • Add chickpeas and diced tomatoes along with the cabbage.
    • Serve with a side of couscous or flatbread.
  13. Herby Green Variation:
    • Add a generous amount of fresh herbs such as parsley, cilantro, and dill to the soup.
    • Blend a handful of spinach or kale into the broth for added nutrition and vibrant color.
    • Finish with a squeeze of lemon juice and a drizzle of olive oil before serving.
  14. Sweet and Tangy Option:
    • Incorporate diced apples or apple cider into the broth for a hint of sweetness.
    • Balance the flavors with a touch of apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar.
    • Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives.
  15. Indian Spice Fusion:
    • Use ground chicken or lamb seasoned with garam masala, turmeric, and ginger.
    • Stir in diced potatoes and peas for a heartier soup.
    • Serve with a dollop of yogurt and a sprinkle of chopped cilantro.
  16. Southwestern Flare:
    • Use ground turkey seasoned with chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika.
    • Add black beans and corn kernels for a Tex-Mex twist.
    • Top with shredded cheese, diced avocado, and a squeeze of lime juice.
  17. Provencal Style:
    • Use Italian sausage or ground pork seasoned with Herbes de Provence.
    • Add diced fennel bulb and white beans to the soup.
    • Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil.
  18. Creamy Mushroom Delight:
    • Saute mushrooms along with the onions and garlic for a rich umami flavor.
    • Stir in a cup of heavy cream or coconut milk for a creamy texture.
    • Finish with a sprinkle of fresh thyme or chives.

Experiment with these variations to customize your Cabbage Roll Soup according to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Each variation offers a unique twist on this comforting classic!

FAQs :

  1. Can I make Cabbage Roll Soup ahead of time?
    • Yes, Cabbage Roll Soup is great for meal prep. Simply store it in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days or freeze for longer storage.
  2. How can I make Cabbage Roll Soup gluten-free?
    • Ensure all ingredients, especially broth and Worcestershire sauce, are certified gluten-free. Substitute rice with gluten-free alternatives like quinoa or gluten-free rice.
  3. What can I serve with Cabbage Roll Soup?
    • Serve with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a side salad for a complete meal.
  4. Can I use different types of cabbage?
    • Yes, you can use savoy cabbage or even Napa cabbage for a different texture and flavor profile.
  5. Can I make Cabbage Roll Soup in a slow cooker?
    • Yes, you can brown the meat and sauté the vegetables beforehand, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
  6. How can I adjust the soup’s consistency?
    • Add more broth or water if the soup becomes too thick upon reheating.
  7. Can I freeze Cabbage Roll Soup?
    • Yes, freeze in individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
  8. How do I reheat Cabbage Roll Soup?
    • Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally.
  9. Can I add more vegetables to the soup?
    • Absolutely! Feel free to add carrots, bell peppers, or any other vegetables you enjoy.
  10. Is Cabbage Roll Soup spicy?
    • The spice level depends on your preference. You can adjust the heat by adding more or less paprika, using mild or hot sausage, or adding chili flakes.

These FAQs address common questions about preparing, storing, and customizing Cabbage Roll Soup to suit various dietary preferences and cooking methods.

Enjoy your homemade Cabbage Roll Soup with these tips to enhance your dining experience and simplify meal preparation!