Beef and cabbage soup is a comforting dish that warms both the body and soul. This soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a fantastic meal option year-round. In this article, we will explore a straightforward recipe, pro tips, and variations to help you create your own delicious pot of beef and cabbage soup.
Ingredients
To make this flavorful soup, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, grated
- 4 cups green cabbage, chopped
- 1 small green pepper, seeded and chopped
- 3 cups beef stock
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 15 ounces canned diced tomatoes
- 30 ounces canned tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 1/2 tablespoons brown sugar
Making the Soup
Creating beef and cabbage soup is a simple process that anyone can follow. Here’s how to do it step-by-step:
Prepare the Cabbage: Peel away and discard the first several cabbage leaves. This ensures your soup uses only the freshest part of the cabbage.
Cook the Beef: Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the lean ground beef. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, breaking up the meat with a spatula until it is browned and cooked through.
Add the Vegetables: Next, add the chopped onions, grated garlic, chopped cabbage, and chopped green pepper to the pot. Season again with salt and pepper. Cook this mixture for about 2-3 minutes until the onions soften.
Combine the Broth and Ingredients: Fold in the beef stock, Worcestershire sauce, diced tomatoes (including their juices), tomato sauce, rice, and finely chopped thyme. Stir everything well.
Simmer: Cover the pot and bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer, covered, for about 20-25 minutes. This allows the rice and vegetables to become tender.
Finalize the Soup: Stir in the brown sugar and chopped parsley. Taste the soup and add more salt and pepper if needed.
Serve Hot: Enjoy a warm bowl of beef and cabbage soup.
Pro Tips and Variations
Creating your perfect beef and cabbage soup can be fun. Here are some tips and variations to keep your cooking experience exciting:
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables will elevate the flavor and nutritional content.
- Add Spice: If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño.
- Adjust Seasonings: Feel free to tweak the salt, pepper, and brown sugar to suit your taste preferences.
Variations
- Switch the Meat: Instead of ground beef, you can use ground turkey or even sausage for a different flavor profile.
- Add More Veggies: Carrots, potatoes, or celery can be great additions to increase the vegetable content.
- Make it Vegetarian: For a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with lentils and use vegetable stock instead of beef stock.
Serving Suggestions
Beef and cabbage soup is hearty on its own but can be complemented with the following:
- Crusty Bread: Serve a side of warm, crusty bread for dipping.
- Grated Cheese: A sprinkle of grated cheese on top adds richness.
- Salad: Pair it with a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.
Conclusion
Beef and cabbage soup is a versatile and nutritious dish that can easily be adjusted to fit your taste. With its hearty ingredients and simple preparation, it makes for an ideal meal for any day of the week. Whether you keep it traditional or make some variations, you can enjoy the comforting flavors that this soup offers.
FAQs
What is the best way to store leftover soup?
Store leftover beef and cabbage soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage.
Can I add other ingredients to the soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add any vegetables or spices you love. Just remember that cooking times may vary.
How do I know when the soup is ready?
The soup is ready when the rice and vegetables are tender. Taste for seasoning, and you’re good to go!
Is this soup healthy?
Yes! Beef and cabbage soup is packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins. It’s a hearty meal option that can fit into a balanced diet.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the meat first, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours for a delicious slow-cooked flavor.
Enjoy your cooking adventure with this satisfying beef and cabbage soup!
Beef and Cabbage Soup
Ingredients
Method
- Peel away and discard the first several cabbage leaves to use only the freshest part.
- Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
- Add the lean ground beef, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, breaking up the meat until browned.
- Add the chopped onions, grated garlic, chopped cabbage, and chopped green pepper. Season with salt and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes until softened.
- Fold in the beef stock, Worcestershire sauce, diced tomatoes (with juices), tomato sauce, rice, and finely chopped thyme. Stir well.
- Cover the pot and bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer, covered, for 20-25 minutes.
- Stir in the brown sugar and chopped parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Enjoy a warm bowl of beef and cabbage soup.
