Hearty Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe for Cozy Evenings

Cabbage roll soup is a cozy, hearty dish that warms you from the inside out. Imagine a bubbling pot filled with tender cabbage, seasoned ground meat, and rich tomatoes wafting delicious scents throughout your kitchen.

It’s one of those recipes that feels like a big warm hug on a chilly evening. This dish brings back memories of family gatherings where laughter filled the air, and bowls were passed around like treasures.

One time, my friend tried this recipe for the first time and declared it “better than therapy.” Who knew cabbage could be such a morale booster?

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ground Beef: Opt for lean beef for a healthier option without sacrificing flavor.

• Cabbage: Choose a fresh, firm head; it should feel heavy for its size.

• Onions: Use yellow onions for sweetness as they caramelize beautifully in the soup.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves pack an aromatic punch; don’t skimp on these.

• Tomato Sauce: A smooth sauce gives depth; choose your favorite brand or homemade.

• Vegetable Broth: Use low-sodium broth to control salt levels while enhancing flavor.

• Rice: Uncooked white rice absorbs flavors perfectly; think of it as tiny sponges.

• Italian Seasoning: This blend adds warmth; feel free to sprinkle in extra oregano if desired.

• Sugar: Just a pinch balances acidity from tomatoes; trust me on this one!

• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings that highlight all other flavors in the dish.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by chopping the onion, garlic, and cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Make sure your chopping skills are sharp—no one likes an unevenly cut vegetable!

Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil and sauté the onions until they become translucent. The sweet aroma will fill your kitchen like an invitation to dinner.

Add Ground Beef: Toss in the ground beef with some salt and pepper. Cook until browned thoroughly while breaking it into smaller pieces with your spatula—think of it as therapy for both you and the meat.

Mix in Cabbage and Garlic: Stir in chopped cabbage and minced garlic until the cabbage begins to wilt slightly. Enjoy watching everything turn into a colorful medley before your eyes.

Add Tomato Sauce and Broth: Pour in tomato sauce and vegetable broth along with Italian seasoning and sugar. Stir well to combine all those flavors that are swirling together like friends at a reunion.

Add Rice and Simmer : Mix in uncooked rice, bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 30 minutes until rice is tender—this is when magic happens!

Now you’re ready to serve up some soul-soothing cabbage roll soup! Garnish with fresh herbs if you want that extra flair—who doesn’t love a little greenery on their meal?

Enjoy every comforting spoonful of this delightful dish that’s bound to become a staple in your home cooking repertoire!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add ground meat for browning before introducing vegetables and broth. This sequence builds layers of flavor while keeping the cooking efficient.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or add extra veggies like carrots or bell peppers. A dash of hot sauce can spice things up if you’re feeling adventurous.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover cabbage roll soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to maintain flavor and texture.

Sharing this recipe reminds me of family gatherings where everyone would ask for seconds, delighted by its comforting aroma and heartwarming taste. It’s always a winner!

FAQ

Can I use frozen cabbage for cabbage roll soup?

Yes, but fresh cabbage provides better texture and flavor in this dish.

How do I make this soup vegetarian?

Substitute ground meat with lentils or mushrooms for a tasty vegetarian option.

What toppings pair well with cabbage roll soup?

A dollop of sour cream or fresh herbs elevates the soup’s flavors delightfully.