Cabbage Roll Soup 

How to Make Cabbage Roll Soup

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or your chosen meat) and cook, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon, until browned and cooked through. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat from the meat.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Once the meat is browned, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant. This step helps build the flavor base for the soup.

Step 3: Add the Cabbage and Vegetables

Stir in the chopped cabbage and any other vegetables you’re using, such as carrots or bell peppers. Sauté for a couple of minutes, allowing the cabbage to begin to soften. If the pot seems dry, you can add a splash of broth or water to help the cabbage wilt down a bit.

Step 4: Add the Liquids and Seasonings

Now it’s time to add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and broth to the pot. Stir to combine. Add in the smoked paprika, oregano, thyme, black pepper, and salt. If you like a tangy finish, add 1-2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to balance out the richness of the soup. You can always adjust the seasonings later to suit your taste.

Step 5: Add the Rice (Optional)

If you’re including rice in your soup, stir it in now. White rice cooks fairly quickly, but if you’re using brown rice, it will need a bit more time. Add an extra 10 minutes of simmering if using brown rice. If you prefer a low-carb or grain-free option, feel free to skip this step.

Step 6: Simmer the Soup

Bring the soup to a simmer, cover the pot, and cook for about 20-30 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the rice (if using) is cooked through. Stir occasionally to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot. If the soup gets too thick, you can always add a little extra broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Step 7: Taste and Adjust

Once the soup is ready, give it a taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. You might want to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or vinegar to get the perfect balance of flavors. If you like a more tangy soup, feel free to add a little more apple cider vinegar or a splash of lemon juice.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings. A dollop of sour cream adds a creamy richness, while a sprinkle of shredded cheese (such as cheddar or Parmesan) or fresh parsley adds a nice touch. Serve with crusty bread or crackers for a complete, comforting meal.

Tips for Making the Best Cabbage Roll Soup

1. Use Ground Turkey for a Lighter Version: If you prefer a leaner version, ground turkey works well as a substitute for beef. You can also use ground pork or chicken for different flavor profiles.
2. Customize the Vegetables: Cabbage Roll Soup is very adaptable. You can add other veggies like zucchini, potatoes, or celery depending on what you have on hand. Just make sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces to ensure they cook evenly.
3. Make it Low-Carb or Keto-Friendly: To make the soup low-carb or keto-friendly, simply omit the rice and add in other low-carb vegetables like cauliflower rice or chopped zucchini for added bulk.
4. Make It Ahead: This soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days and even tastes better the next day as the flavors have time to meld. It also freezes beautifully, so feel free to make a big batch and store individual portions in the freezer for a quick meal later on.
5. Adjust the Tanginess: If you prefer a tangier soup, increase the amount of apple cider vinegar or add a splash of lemon juice at the end of cooking. This will balance out the richness of the beef and tomato.
6. Add Heat: For those who like a little spice, add crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to the soup while it’s cooking for a little extra heat.
7. Make it Vegetarian: If you’re looking for a meatless version, you can use lentils or tofu in place of the meat. The lentils will absorb the flavors beautifully, making the soup filling and satisfying.

Conclusion: A Cozy, Comforting Classic

Cabbage Roll Soup is the ultimate comfort food — rich, savory, and satisfying, with all the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls but without the work. It’s the perfect meal for any time of year, whether you’re warming up on a cold winter day or preparing an easy weeknight dinner.

This soup is not only delicious, but it’s also incredibly flexible, allowing you to adapt it to suit your tastes and dietary preferences. With simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have a pot of hearty, flavorful soup on the table in no time.

So, next time you’re craving cabbage rolls but want something quicker and easier, give this Cabbage Roll Soup a try — you won’t be disappointed!