Making Delicious Cabbage Roll Soup

Ingredients

1 lb ground beef (or ground pork, turkey, or a mix)

1 medium onion, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

4 cups green cabbage, chopped (about 1 small head)

1 large carrot, diced

1 cup uncooked rice (white or brown)

6 cups beef broth (or chicken broth)

1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes

1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for extra depth)

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon dried oregano

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

1-2 teaspoons sugar (optional, to balance acidity)

Instructions

Cook the Meat

In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned. Drain excess fat if necessary.

Sauté Aromatics

Add the diced onion, garlic, and carrot to the pot. Sauté until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Add Cabbage and Seasonings

Stir in the chopped cabbage, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to slightly soften the cabbage.

Add Liquids and Rice

Pour in the beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste (if using). Stir well. Add the uncooked rice and bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer the Soup

Reduce the heat to low and cover. Simmer for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is cooked and the cabbage is tender.

Adjust Seasoning

Taste and adjust the seasoning. Add sugar if the soup is too acidic.

Serve

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream, if desired.

Tips for Perfect Cabbage Roll Soup

Rice Options: Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and needs a longer cook time. For quicker options, use pre-cooked or instant rice and add it toward the end.

Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

Freezer-Friendly: Cool completely, then freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

Low-Carb Version: Skip the rice or replace it with cauliflower rice for a keto-friendly option.

Enjoy this warm, comforting soup that’s perfect for a cozy meal! ????