Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

  1. Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces.
  2. Dice the onion, carrots, and celery.
  3. Mince the garlic and measure out your seasonings.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

  1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add the ground beef (or pork) and cook, breaking it into small pieces with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked. This should take about 5–7 minutes.
  3. Season the meat with a pinch of salt and pepper, then remove it from the pot and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

  1. In the same pot, add a little more olive oil if needed.
  2. Sauté the onions, carrots, and celery until softened, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4: Build the Soup Base

  1. Stir in the chopped cabbage and let it cook for 3–4 minutes, just until it begins to soften.
  2. Return the browned meat to the pot.

Step 5: Add Liquids and Seasonings

  1. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth.
  2. Add the bay leaves, paprika, and thyme.
  3. Stir well, then bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 6: Simmer the Soup

  1. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld and the cabbage to become tender.

Step 7: Add the Rice

  1. Stir in the cooked rice during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
  2. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Step 8: Serve and Garnish

  1. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
  2. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream for added richness.
  3. Serve with crusty bread or rolls for dipping.

Tips for the Best Cabbage Roll Soup

  1. Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cabbage and high-quality tomatoes will elevate the soup’s flavor.
  2. Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
  3. Substitute Grains: Use quinoa, barley, or even cauliflower rice as a low-carb option.
  4. Save Time: If you’re short on time, use pre-chopped vegetables or a bag of coleslaw mix in place of fresh cabbage.
  5. Freezing Tip: This soup freezes well, but consider leaving out the rice before freezing to avoid mushiness. Add fresh-cooked rice when reheating.

Why This Soup is Perfect for Any Occasion

Cabbage Roll Soup brings the comforting, hearty flavors of traditional cabbage rolls into a convenient, one-pot dish. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or meal prepping for busy weeks. Whether you’re craving something cozy or looking for a family-friendly meal, this soup will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Try it today, and enjoy a bowl of comfort that warms both the body and soul!