Description

Imagine a warm, hearty bowl of cabbage roll soup that wraps you in comfort with every spoonful. This dish hails from Eastern Europe, where cabbage rolls have long been a beloved staple. This soup captures the essence of tradition, combining seasoned beef and tangy tomatoes with fresh, crunchy cabbage for an experience that feels both nourishing and indulgent. It’s the kind of meal that makes you feel right at home, whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or sharing it with loved ones at a cozy gathering. The recipe is not only straightforward, but it also invites you into a world of flavors that marry together beautifully, creating a dish that is both satisfying and delightful.

The best part? While this cabbage roll soup is rich and fulfilling, it is easy enough for any home cook, regardless of skill level, to whip up. The joy of preparation, the aromatic scents wafting through your kitchen, and the hearty satisfaction of a lovingly prepared meal make this recipe a must-have in your culinary repertoire. Plus, as you navigate through the steps, you might find it hard to resist tasting along the way—after all, the best part of cooking is enjoying every moment!

Ingredients

• - 2 tablespoons olive oil
• - 1 pound lean ground beef (or ground turkey for a lighter alternative)
• - 1 large onion, chopped
• - 3 cloves garlic, minced
• - 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
• - 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• - 4 cups beef broth
• - 2 cups water
• - 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
• - 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
• - 1 teaspoon dried basil
• - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• - 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• - Salt and pepper to taste
• - 1-2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional)
• - Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Preparation Method

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add ground beef, breaking it apart, and cook until browned (5 to 7 minutes).
3. Stir in chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking for 3 to 4 minutes until softened.
4. Add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, dried basil, thyme, and smoked paprika, stirring to combine.
5. Pour in beef broth and water, then add chopped cabbage.
6. Raise heat to bring soup to a boil, then reduce to low and simmer for 30 to 40 minutes.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional brown sugar.
8. Stir in cooked rice and heat through.
9. Serve hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley.

Tips and Conclusion

This soup is wonderfully versatile! If you want to make it a vegetarian version, you can substitute the ground beef with lentils and the beef broth with vegetable broth. You can also experiment by adding other veggies such as carrots or bell peppers for added texture and flavor. For a side, consider serving this soup with some crusty bread or a fresh garden salad, perfect for balancing the heartiness of the soup.

Lastly, if you have leftovers (which are rare with this deliciousness), storing them is easy! Simply cool the soup completely, then store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to three days. It also freezes beautifully; just make sure to leave out the rice before freezing, as it can become mushy when reheated.
With each step of preparing this comforting cabbage roll soup, you can feel the warmth of a shared meal at the heart of it all. This recipe not only nourishes the body but also feeds the soul with its rich flavors and heartiness. As you savor every spoonful, you’ll find it hard to believe how easy it was to create something so delectable!

If you enjoyed this recipe, perhaps you’re looking for more cozy favorites. Consider exploring recipes like hearty potato stew, dumpling soup, or traditional borscht—all perfect for chilly days or gatherings with friends and family. Don't forget to share this recipe with fellow food enthusiasts who would appreciate a comforting meal or inspire them to browse through more delightful recipes on our site. Your culinary journey is just an entry away!