Name: Comfort Food
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 tsp. vegetable oil.; 1 lb. lean ground beef.; Salt and pepper to taste.; 1 medium yellow onion, diced finely.; 2 cloves garlic, minced.; 4 cups chopped green cabbage.; 2 medium carrots, quartered and sliced.; 4 cups low-sodium beef broth.; 3 (8 oz.) cans tomato sauce.; 1/2 cup white rice, uncooked.; 1 bay leaf.; 3 tbsp. light brown sugar.; 2 tbsp. fresh chopped parsley.

Cabbage Roll Soup is a comforting, hearty dish that brings the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls into an easy-to-make soup. Perfect for chilly nights, this soup combines seasoned ground beef, tender cabbage, and carrots in a savory tomato broth. With a hint of brown sugar for balance and fresh parsley for garnish, each bowl is packed with warmth and flavor. The addition of rice makes it filling, while the beef broth and bay leaf give depth to the taste. Ideal for family dinners or meal prep, this soup satisfies without much fuss.

If you’re a fan of comforting soups that bring warmth to every bite, then this Cabbage Roll Soup is a must-try! It combines the essence of classic cabbage rolls in a cozy soup, making it an ideal choice for cool days.

INGREDIENTS

Vegetable Oil: Just a small amount to brown the beef and build the soup's base flavor.
Lean Ground Beef: Adds heartiness and protein. Choose lean beef to keep the soup lighter and less greasy.
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings to enhance the beef’s flavor.
Yellow Onion (diced finely): Adds sweetness and depth to the soup’s flavor profile.
Garlic (minced): Aromatic and flavorful, garlic brings an essential savory kick.
Green Cabbage (chopped): The star ingredient, cabbage gives texture, nutrients, and a slight sweetness.
Carrots (quartered and sliced): These add a hint of sweetness and color, balancing the savory ingredients.
Low-Sodium Beef Broth: The base of the soup, adding richness while keeping the salt levels in check.
Tomato Sauce: Creates the tangy tomato base that makes this soup similar to traditional cabbage rolls.
White Rice (uncooked): Absorbs the flavors as it cooks, making the soup heartier and more filling.
Bay Leaf: Adds an aromatic note and earthy undertone to the soup.
Light Brown Sugar: Balances the acidity of the tomato sauce and enhances the soup’s depth.
Fresh Parsley (chopped): A garnish that adds freshness and color to each bowl.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:: In a Dutch oven or large soup pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beef is browned.
Step 2:: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onions are soft and translucent, releasing their sweetness and enhancing the aroma.
Step 3:: Stir in the chopped cabbage and sliced carrots, mixing everything together. These vegetables will soften and soak up the flavors as the soup simmers.
Step 4:: Add the tomato sauce, beef broth, uncooked white rice, bay leaf, and light brown sugar. Stir everything together to combine well.
Step 5:: Bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Lower the heat and let it cook for approximately 25 minutes, or until the rice is tender and fully cooked.
Step 6:: Once the rice is cooked, remove the bay leaf from the soup. This prevents the bay leaf from overpowering the flavors. Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley over the soup for a burst of color and freshness before serving.

Serving and Storage Tips

Serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for extra color and freshness.
This soup pairs well with a slice of crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Helpful Notes

Try adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a hint of spice.
For a richer flavor, use full-sodium beef broth or a mix of beef and vegetable broths.
Swap white rice with brown rice for added fiber, adjusting cooking time as needed.

Tips from Well-Known Chefs

Chef Ina Garten recommends using fresh parsley in soups for a fresh, vibrant flavor.
Chef Gordon Ramsay suggests browning the beef thoroughly for a deep, caramelized taste in every bite.
Chef Jamie Oliver advises letting soups rest for a few minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

It’s a one-pot meal that’s easy to make and clean up.
Packed with nutritious vegetables and lean protein, it's both filling and satisfying.
The soup has a balanced flavor of savory, sweet, and tangy, appealing to all taste buds.