Cabbage Roll Soup is a deconstructed version of the classic cabbage roll, transformed into a hearty and comforting soup that’s perfect for chilly evenings. This recipe captures all the flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage without the fuss of rolling and stuffing leaves, making it a convenient and quick alternative. With tender bits of ground beef, fluffy rice, and sweet cabbage simmered in a rich tomato base, this soup is a filling meal all on its own.
This dish is not only a time-saver but also a flavorful feast that warms you from the inside out. It’s ideal for those busy weeknights when you crave something wholesome yet simple to prepare. Whether served as a main course or as a warm appetizer, this soup promises a satisfying eating experience with every spoonful.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Effortless Cooking: Simplifies the classic cabbage roll into an easy-to-make soup that doesn’t require meticulous preparation.
• Rich and Hearty: Offers a robust combination of beef, rice, and vegetables, making it a fulfilling dish perfect for satisfying large appetites.
• Versatile: Easily adaptable with different types of meat or additional vegetables depending on your preferences.
Ingredients
• 1 ½ cups converted long-grain white rice
• 5 cups water, divided
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 (20 ounce) jar of pasta sauce
• 1 (10 ounce) can of tomato soup
• 3 ½ pounds cabbage, cut into bite-size pieces
• 1 onion, chopped
• Salt and ground black pepper to taste
• 1 dash hot pepper sauce
Instructions
1. Cook the Rice
• In a medium saucepan, bring 3 cups of water to a boil. Add the rice and reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is soft and the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Brown the Beef
• Heat a large soup pot over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beef is fully browned. Drain any excess grease from the pot.
3. Combine Ingredients
• To the pot with the browned beef, add 2 cups of water, cooked rice, pasta sauce, tomato soup, chopped cabbage, onion, salt, black pepper, and a dash of hot pepper sauce. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
4. Simmer the Soup
• Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the flavors are well blended.
Tips
• Flavor Enhancements: For a deeper flavor, consider sautéing the onion before adding it to the pot, or use beef broth instead of water for more richness.
• Spice It Up: Adjust the amount of hot pepper sauce according to your taste, or add other spices like paprika or garlic powder for an extra kick.
• Meat Variations: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or pork for a different flavor profile.
Storage Options
• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezer: This soup freezes well. Cool completely and store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stove.
Cabbage Roll Soup is a delightful twist on the traditional dish, offering the comforting tastes of a home-cooked meal with less work. Its rich flavor and hearty ingredients make it a perfect choice for a satisfying dinner that the whole family will enjoy.
