Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup

Introduction

When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty soup to gather the family around the table. Recently, I stumbled upon a recipe for Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup, and it quickly became a beloved dish in our household. With its savory flavors and comforting textures, this soup offers all the deliciousness of traditional cabbage rolls without the fuss of stuffing and rolling each leaf. My family absolutely loved it, and it has now secured a regular spot in our dinner rotation.

The best part? It’s a breeze to make! In under an hour, you can have a wholesome meal that will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. Let me share this delightful recipe with you.

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• ½ yellow onion, chopped (about ½ cup)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• ½ pound ground beef
• ½ pound ground pork
• 2 carrots, diced
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes, drained
• 2 (14.5-ounce) cans beef broth
• ½ cup uncooked white rice
• ½ small head green cabbage, chopped (about 4 cups)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Sauté Vegetables:

• Heat olive oil over medium heat in a Dutch oven. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds, stirring constantly.

1. Cook Meat:

• Add ground beef and ground pork to the pot. Cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks.

1. Add Ingredients:

• Stir in the diced carrots, tomato sauce, drained diced tomatoes, beef broth, uncooked rice, chopped cabbage, bay leaf, Worcestershire sauce, and paprika.

1. Simmer:

• Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook for 25 minutes, or until the rice and cabbage are tender.

1. Serve:

• Ladle soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Nutrition Facts

• Servings: 4
• Calories per serving: 457 kcal

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes

How to Serve

• Ladle soup into bowls.
• Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
• Serve with crusty bread or crackers on the side.
• Pair with a simple side salad for a complete meal.
• Offer grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor.

Additional Tips

1. Meat Options: Feel free to substitute ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
2. Vegetable Additions: Add other veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
3. Herbs: Experiment with fresh herbs such as thyme or dill for added freshness.
4. Rice Substitute: Use quinoa or brown rice for a different texture and flavor.
5. Spice It Up: If you enjoy a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce.

Recipe Variations

• Vegan Version: Replace the meat with lentils or a plant-based ground meat alternative and use vegetable broth.
• Spicy Cabbage Roll Soup: Incorporate jalapeños or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
• Cheesy Cabbage Roll Soup: Stir in shredded cheese towards the end of cooking for a creamy texture.
• Asian-Inspired Soup: Add soy sauce and ginger for an Asian twist, and substitute rice with rice noodles.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve in large soup bowls with a slice of garlic bread.
• Pair with a light white wine for adults or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing non-alcoholic option.
• Set up a toppings bar with sour cream, shredded cheese, and sliced green onions for guests to customize their bowls.

Freezing and Storage

• Freezing: This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to airtight containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
• Storage: Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in an airtight container.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?

• Yes! Brown the meat and sauté the vegetables first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

1. What if I don’t have beef broth?

• You can substitute with chicken broth or vegetable broth for a different flavor.

1. Is this soup gluten-free?

• Yes, as long as you use gluten-free Worcestershire sauce and check the labels on your broth.

1. Can I make this soup in advance?

• Absolutely! The flavors meld beautifully when made a day ahead.

1. What can I use instead of rice?

• Quinoa or small pasta shapes can be good substitutes.

1. How can I make this soup spicier?

• Add red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to the pot.

1. What type of cabbage works best?

• Green cabbage is traditional, but savoy or napa cabbage can also work well.

1. Can I add beans to this soup?

• Yes! Canned kidney or black beans can be added for more protein and fiber.

1. How long does this soup last in the fridge?

• It will last for about 4 days when stored in an airtight container.

1. What is a good side dish to serve with this soup?
   • A simple green salad or cornbread complements this soup nicely.

Conclusion

Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup is not just a meal; it’s a comforting bowl of nostalgia that brings family together. Easy to prepare and packed with flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep on hand for those busy weeknights. With a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can create a dish that warms hearts and satisfies appetites. Whether you enjoy it as is or tweak it to suit your tastes, this soup is bound to become a cherished favorite in your home as it has in mine. Enjoy the warmth and comfort this delightful soup brings to your table!

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