Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Base

  1. Heat the Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Cook the Beef: Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
  3. Sauté the Vegetables: Stir in the chopped onion and garlic, cooking for 3–4 minutes until fragrant and softened.

Step 2: Add the Cabbage

  1. Stir in the chopped cabbage, mixing it with the beef and onions.
  2. Cook for 5 minutes until the cabbage begins to soften.

Step 3: Incorporate the Liquids

  1. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef or chicken broth.
  2. Stir well to combine, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

Step 4: Season the Soup

  1. Add the oregano, thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper to taste.
  2. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low.

Step 5: Cook the Rice

  1. Stir in the uncooked rice, ensuring it’s submerged in the liquid.
  2. Cover the pot with a lid and let the soup simmer for 20–25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and cooked through.

Step 6: Taste and Adjust

  1. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
  2. If the soup is too thick, add a little more broth to reach your desired consistency.

Step 7: Serve

  1. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
  2. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Tips for Perfect Cabbage Roll Soup

  1. Use Fresh Cabbage: Fresh green cabbage works best for this recipe, but savoy or Napa cabbage can also be used.
  2. Adjust the Protein: Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or use plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.
  3. Rice Variations: If you prefer, substitute white rice with brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.
  4. Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick.

Storage and Reheating

  1. Refrigeration: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  2. Freezing: This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months.
  3. Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if the soup has thickened during storage.

Why You’ll Love Cabbage Roll Soup

  • Quick and Easy: No need to stuff and roll individual cabbage leaves—everything comes together in one pot.
  • Hearty and Nutritious: Packed with vegetables, protein, and rice, this soup is a balanced meal on its own.
  • Customizable: Easily tweak the recipe to suit your dietary preferences or available ingredients.
  • Budget-Friendly: Simple, inexpensive ingredients come together to create a filling and flavorful dish.