This hearty and comforting cabbage roll soup captures all the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls in a cozy, simmered soup form. It’s packed with lean ground beef, tender cabbage, savory tomatoes, and rice, all seasoned with Worcestershire sauce and a dash of apple cider vinegar for a balanced depth of flavor. It’s easy to make and comes together quickly, making it a perfect weeknight meal or a cozy dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
- Ground Beef: Use lean ground beef (90% lean) for a rich, meaty soup without excess grease.
- Tomatoes: Fire-roasted tomatoes bring a smoky, savory depth to the broth.
- Cabbage: Standard green cabbage is ideal for this dish as it softens beautifully during simmering while maintaining some texture and bite.
- Rice: Cooking the rice directly in the soup adds bulk and thickens the broth, creating a comforting, hearty texture.
- Worcestershire Sauce: Adds a rich umami flavor that complements the ground beef and ties the soup together.
- Apple Cider Vinegar: The natural pairing of apples and cabbage is enhanced by the subtle acidity of apple cider vinegar, brightening the soup.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Cook the Beef and Veggies:
In a large pot, add the ground beef, cabbage, and other vegetables (such as onions or carrots if you like). No need to spend time sweating aromatics or browning the meat; simply throw it all into the pot. Cook everything together until the beef is fully cooked and the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes. Make sure to keep the beef in small chunks to retain texture. Add the garlic at the end and cook until fragrant. - Add the Remaining Ingredients:
Once the beef and veggies are cooked through, add the fire-roasted tomatoes, rice, Worcestershire sauce, and apple cider vinegar. Stir well to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is fully cooked and the cabbage is tender. - Season to Taste:
Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt if needed. This is the time to fine-tune the flavor to your liking. - Finish and Serve:
Add fresh parsley to the soup to bring in a touch of color and brightness. Serve the soup in bowls, garnished with additional parsley for a fresh, appealing presentation.
Recipe Tips:
- Simmer, Don’t Boil: To ensure the cabbage doesn’t overcook and to avoid an unpleasant sulfur smell, make sure to simmer the soup, not boil it. Keep the heat low once the soup reaches a boil.
- Toppings Bar: Just like chili, this soup is perfect for topping with various garnishes. Consider serving it with sour cream or Greek yogurt for creaminess, shredded cheddar or Swiss cheese for richness, and fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or cilantro for brightness. For a spicy kick, add some pickled jalapeños or hot sauce.
Storage:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days, making this soup great for meal prep. It also freezes well if you want to enjoy it at a later time.
This cabbage roll soup is an easy, flavorful, and filling meal that brings together all the classic ingredients of cabbage rolls in a simple, comforting soup form. It’s sure to be a family favorite and will warm you up on even the coldest of days.