Cabbage Roll Soup

This Cabbage Roll Soup is a hearty, comforting dish inspired by traditional cabbage rolls. It combines ground beef, tender cabbage, tomatoes, and spices in a flavorful broth, delivering all the familiar flavors in a warm, easy-to-make soup.

Ingredients

• 1 lb ground beef
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 green cabbage, chopped
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
• 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1/2 cup uncooked white rice
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions

1. Cook the ground beef: In a large pot, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Add aromatics: Stir in the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion becomes translucent.
3. Combine the ingredients: Add the chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, uncooked rice, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper.
4. Simmer the soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for 25-30 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the rice is fully cooked.
5. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 6

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles or extra beans for a vegetarian version.
• Turkey or Chicken: Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
• Add Carrots and Celery: Include diced carrots and celery for additional flavor and texture.
• Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Brown Rice: Substitute white rice with brown rice for a nuttier flavor and extra fiber (adjust cooking time as needed).

Storage and Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, or microwave individual servings. Note that the rice will continue to absorb liquid over time; add a bit of extra broth or water when reheating if the soup has thickened.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
   Yes, but brown rice will require a longer cooking time, so adjust accordingly.
2. Can I make this soup in advance?
   Yes, the flavors meld beautifully when made a day ahead. Just store it in the fridge and reheat before serving.
3. Can I freeze this soup?
   Yes, but the texture of the rice may change slightly when frozen. For best results, freeze the soup without the rice and add freshly cooked rice when reheating.
4. What other types of meat can I use?
   Ground turkey, chicken, or pork are all good alternatives to beef in this soup.
5. How can I make this soup spicier?
   Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to increase the heat.
6. Can I add potatoes?
   Yes, diced potatoes can be added for a heartier soup. Add them at the same time as the cabbage.
7. Is there a way to make it thicker?
   For a thicker soup, reduce the broth by 1 cup or simmer the soup longer.
8. Can I add beans?
   Yes, white beans or kidney beans add a nice texture and additional protein.
9. What can I serve with this soup?
   Serve it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
10. Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
    Yes, use about 2 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes as a substitute for the canned diced tomatoes.

Conclusion

Cabbage Roll Soup is a delicious and hearty way to enjoy the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the time-consuming prep. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this soup is perfect for busy nights or as a comforting meal on chilly days. Enjoy this flavorful twist on a classic!

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