Cabbage Roll Soup 🥬🍲✨

“A Simplified Take on Classic Cabbage Rolls in a Hearty, Flavorful Soup!”

This Cabbage Roll Soup is a warm, hearty dish inspired by traditional stuffed cabbage rolls. It features tender cabbage, savory ground meat, rice, and a tomato-based broth—all the comforting flavors you love, without the hassle of rolling!

Ingredients

For the Soup Base:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lb ground beef or ground turkey (or a mix of both)
• 1 medium onion, finely diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 small head of cabbage, chopped (about 6–8 cups)
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 4 cups beef or chicken broth (or a mix of both)
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For the Rice:

• 1/2 cup uncooked white or brown rice (or 1 cup cooked rice)

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh parsley or dill, chopped
• A dollop of sour cream
• Crusty bread for serving

How to Make Cabbage Roll Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Meat and Aromatics

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the ground beef or turkey and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain any excess grease.
3. Stir in the onion and cook for 5–7 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Add the Cabbage and Broth

1. Stir in the chopped cabbage and cook for 5 minutes until it begins to soften.
2. Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, broth, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper.

Step 3: Cook the Soup

1. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Add the Rice

1. Stir in the uncooked rice and simmer for an additional 20–25 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
   • If using cooked rice, add it in the last 5 minutes of cooking to warm through.

Step 5: Serve

1. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
2. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, dill, or a dollop of sour cream. Serve with crusty bread or rolls.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-Pot Wonder: All the flavors of cabbage rolls with minimal cleanup.
• Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein, veggies, and rice, it’s a complete meal.
• Customizable: Adjust the meat, seasonings, or rice to suit your preferences.

Pro Tips for Success

1. Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
2. Rice Alternatives: Substitute rice with quinoa or cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
3. Freezer-Friendly: Freeze leftovers in individual portions for quick and easy meals later.

This Cabbage Roll Soup is a comforting, flavorful dish that’s perfect for chilly nights or when you’re craving a hearty, satisfying meal. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the essence of cabbage rolls without all the work. Enjoy! 🥬🍲✨