I can’t tell you how much I adore a big bowl of cabbage soup! This hearty dish has a special place in my heart—it’s more than just a meal for me; it’s a warm hug in a bowl. I remember the first time I made it one chilly fall evening, inspired by my grandma’s recipe. The aroma of the savory broth wafting through my home took me right back to her kitchen, where everything felt safe and cozy. Plus, it’s an excellent way to sneak in some veggies, making it a guilt-free delight!
What I love about this cabbage soup is how easy it is to put together. You can customize it with your favorite ingredients, and it’s perfect for a family dinner or meal prep for the week ahead. Let’s dive into what you need to whip up this comforting bowl of goodness!
What’s in Cabbage Soup?
Cabbage: The star of the show! This green beauty not only adds crunch and a slight sweetness but is also low in calories and packed with vitamins K and C.
Ground Beef (or Turkey): For protein and a hearty texture. I often use turkey for a leaner option, but beef adds a rich flavor that’s hard to beat!
Onion: This fragrant veggie brings a delightful sweetness and a base for flavor. I typically go for yellow onions, but any kind will do.
Carrots: These sweet gems offer a lovely color and a touch of natural sweetness. They also give the soup a bit of a nutritious boost.
Celery: Adds a crunchy texture and a fresh flavor that pairs beautifully with the other veggies.
Garlic: A must for that glorious aroma! It packs a punch of flavor, making the soup irresistible.
Diced Tomatoes: These add a tangy depth to the soup. I like to use the canned variety; they’re super convenient!
Beef Broth (or Vegetable Broth): This is the base of your soup. Using beef broth gives a richer flavor, but vegetable broth works just as well for a vegetarian option.
Tomato Juice: This helps thicken the soup and adds even more tomato goodness. If you’re a big tomato fan, feel free to splash in a bit more!
Dried Thyme and Paprika: These spices bring out the flavors perfectly, with thyme adding earthiness and paprika contributing a subtle smokiness.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for enhancing all those delicious flavors.
Olive Oil: A little drizzle for sautéing the veggies—healthy and tasty!
Crushed Crackers or Bread: Perfect for topping off your soup. Who doesn’t love dipping crusty bread into rich broth?
Is Cabbage Soup Good for You?
Oh, absolutely! This cabbage soup not only warms you up but brings a ton of health benefits to the table.
Cabbage: Being low in calories and high in fiber, it makes you feel full without the guilt. Plus, it’s great for digestion!
Ground Beef (or Turkey): Packed with protein, which is essential for building and repairing tissues. Just keep an eye on serving sizes if you’re watching your fat intake.
Onions and Garlic: Both are known for their antioxidant properties, and they can help boost your immune system. It’s like a tasty shield against colds!
The veggies combined create a lovely balance of nutrients and flavors, making this soup not just comforting but nourishing as well.
Ingredients
– 1 large head of cabbage, chopped
– 1 lb ground beef (or turkey)
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 carrots, diced
– 2 ribs of celery, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 4 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth)
– 1 cup tomato juice
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for cooking
– Crushed crackers or bread (for serving)
This recipe serves about 6-8 people, depending on how big your bowls (or appetites) are!
How to Make Cabbage Soup?
1. In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the ground beef (or turkey) and cook until browned, ensuring you drain any excess fat—nobody wants a greasy soup!
2. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté everything for about 5 minutes until the veggies soften up. Ah, that’s when the magic begins!
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute. Trust me, your kitchen will smell divine!
4. It’s time to add the chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes (with their juice), beef broth, tomato juice, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring this lovely mixture to a boil—your patience will be rewarded!
5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and all those flavors meld together.
6. Before serving, taste your masterpiece and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
7. Enjoy hot with crushed crackers or bread on the side. Seriously, there’s nothing more comforting than this!
Serving Suggestions and Tips to Elevate Your Soup!
Now that you’ve got your delicious cabbage soup ready, here are a few tips to make it even better:
– Feel free to toss in other veggies you have on hand—zucchini, bell peppers, or even some greens for extra nutrition!
– For a bit of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some cayenne.
– If you want a creamier version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk before serving.
– Leftovers? No problem! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen. It’s perfect for meal prep!
I can’t wait for you to try this cabbage soup! The combination of savory flavors and wholesome ingredients is bound to become a family favorite. Let me know how it goes and if you added any fun twists of your own! Happy cooking!
