Hearty Cabbage Roll Soup: A Comforting One-Pot Meal

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Craving the classic flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the tedious rolling? This cabbage roll soup brings all the delicious elements of the beloved dish into a simple, warming, and incredibly satisfying one-pot meal that’s perfect for cold days and hungry families.

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 large onion, finely chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 450g (1 lb) ground beef or ground turkey
  • 1 medium carrot, peeled and diced
  • 1 celery rib, diced (optional)
  • 1/2 head of green cabbage (approximately 4 cups), chopped
  • 1/2 cup uncooked white rice
  • 4 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth)
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
  • 1 can (400g) tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes
  • 1 tablespoon tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce (optional)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed soup pot over medium heat.
  2. Add chopped onions and sauté for 3-4 minutes until translucent and slightly softened.
  3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring to prevent burning.
  4. Add ground beef or turkey to the pot. Break up the meat with a wooden spoon and cook until browned, approximately 5-7 minutes.
  5. Stir in diced carrots and celery (if using). Cook for 2-3 minutes.
  6. Add chopped cabbage and cook for another 2-3 minutes until it begins to soften.
  7. Pour in beef broth, water, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and tomato paste. Stir to combine.
  8. Add uncooked rice, dried oregano, paprika, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
  9. If using, add Worcestershire sauce for extra depth of flavor.
  10. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, covered, for 25-30 minutes or until rice is tender.
  11. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  12. Serve hot, garnished with fresh chopped parsley.

Nutritional Information

Per Serving (approximately):

  • Calories: 320
  • Protein: 22g
  • Carbohydrates: 25g
  • Fat: 15g
  • Fiber: 4g

Preparation Time: 15 minutes Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes Total Time: 50-55 minutes Servings: 6-8

Cooking Tips and Tricks

  • Use lean ground meat to reduce overall fat content
  • For a vegetarian version, substitute ground meat with lentils or plant-based meat alternatives
  • Cut cabbage into uniform pieces for even cooking
  • Rinse rice before adding to remove excess starch
  • Let soup rest for 10 minutes before serving to enhance flavors

Possible Variations and Substitutions

  • Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free broth and omit Worcestershire sauce
  • Low-Carb: Replace rice with cauliflower rice
  • Spicy Version: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce
  • Different Proteins: Try ground chicken or plant-based crumbles
  • Vegetable Variations: Add bell peppers or zucchini

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker? Yes, combine all ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Q2: How long can I store this soup? Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4-5 days. Freezes well for up to 3 months.

Q3: Can I use brown rice instead of white? Yes, but increase cooking time by 15-20 minutes.

Q4: Is this soup healthy? It’s a nutritious, balanced meal with lean protein, vegetables, and whole grains.

Q5: Can I make this soup ahead of time? Absolutely! It often tastes even better the next day.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Cool completely before storing
  • Refrigerate in sealed containers
  • Reheat gently on stovetop, adding splash of broth if needed
  • Freezes excellently for future meals

Enjoy this comforting and hearty cabbage roll soup that brings all the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls into an easy, delicious one-pot meal!