Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cabbage roll soup is a comforting, hearty, and flavor-packed dish that transforms the traditional cabbage roll into an easy, one-pot meal. Instead of spending time rolling individual cabbage leaves around a meat and rice filling, this soup simplifies the process while retaining the delicious taste. It’s packed with ground meat, tender cabbage, tomatoes, and seasonings that meld beautifully into a rich and satisfying broth. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep, freezes well, and can be easily customized to suit different dietary needs.

Ingredients

• Ground beef or turkey
• Onion
• Garlic
• Green cabbage
• Carrots
• Diced tomatoes
• Tomato sauce
• Beef broth or vegetable broth
• White rice
• Worcestershire sauce
• Italian seasoning
• Paprika
• Bay leaves
• Salt and pepper
• Olive oil

Directions

1. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent.
2. Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef or turkey to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it up into smaller pieces.
3. Add the Vegetables: Stir in the chopped cabbage and carrots, cooking for a few minutes until they begin to soften.
4. Incorporate the Tomatoes and Broth: Pour in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth, stirring to combine.
5. Season the Soup: Add Worcestershire sauce, Italian seasoning, paprika, bay leaves, salt, and pepper. Stir well to distribute the flavors.
6. Simmer to Perfection: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 25-30 minutes until the cabbage and carrots are tender.
7. Cook the Rice: Stir in the white rice and let it cook for an additional 15-20 minutes until tender. If necessary, add more broth to achieve the desired consistency.
8. Serve and Enjoy: Remove the bay leaves and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot and enjoy!

Variations

• Low-Carb Option: Swap out the rice for cauliflower rice or omit it altogether.
• Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground meat with lentils or chickpeas and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
• Different Grains: Substitute rice with quinoa or barley for a twist on texture and nutrition.

Servings and Timing

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 6-8

Storage/Reheating

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Freeze portions in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a bit of broth if necessary. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring between each.

FAQs

How do I prevent the rice from getting mushy?

Cook the rice separately and add it to individual servings instead of letting it sit in the soup.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but it takes longer to cook, so consider adding it earlier or using pre-cooked brown rice.

What type of cabbage works best?

Green cabbage is the best option, but savoy or Napa cabbage can also work.

Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Brown the meat and sauté the onions first, then add everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Is this soup gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use a gluten-free Worcestershire sauce or substitute with tamari or coconut aminos.

Can I use a different protein?

Absolutely! Try ground chicken, pork, or even plant-based crumbles for variety.

What if I don’t have Worcestershire sauce?

You can substitute it with soy sauce or a mix of balsamic vinegar and a dash of sugar.

How can I make the broth richer?

Use a mix of beef broth and tomato paste, or add a splash of red wine for depth.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! Bell peppers, celery, or zucchini can add more flavor and texture.

What should I serve with cabbage roll soup?

A side of crusty bread, cornbread, or a simple green salad complements this soup beautifully.

Conclusion

Cabbage roll soup delivers all the rich, hearty flavors of traditional cabbage rolls in an easy-to-make, one-pot meal. It’s nourishing, customizable, and perfect for busy weeknights or meal prepping. Whether you enjoy it fresh, freeze it for later, or experiment with variations, this soup is sure to become a favorite comfort food in your home. Give it a try and savor every spoonful!

Print