Stuffed Cabbage Roll Soup

Stuffed Cabbage Roll Soup

Introduction

Stuffed Cabbage Roll Soup is a simplified version of classic stuffed cabbage rolls, offering all the comforting flavors in a warming bowl of soup.

This recipe transforms the labor-intensive process of rolling cabbage leaves around a meat and rice filling into a one-pot meal that’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying.

The soup is filled with tender cabbage, seasoned ground meat, rice, and a rich tomato broth.

It’s a perfect solution for busy weeknights or whenever you crave a comforting dish with minimal preparation.

This Stuffed Cabbage Roll Soup is a wholesome, filling meal that pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping.

It’s an ideal choice for anyone looking to enjoy the flavors of stuffed cabbage without the extra work!

Ingredients

To make this delicious Stuffed Cabbage Roll Soup, gather the following ingredients:

For the Soup:

1 lb ground beef or ground pork (or a combination of both)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 medium carrots, diced

2 ribs of celery, diced

1 small head of cabbage, chopped (about 4-5 cups)

1 cup uncooked rice (white or brown)

1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (undrained)

1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce

4 cups beef or chicken broth (adjust based on desired thickness)

2 cups water (optional, to adjust soup consistency)

1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for a smoky flavor)

1 bay leaf

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Base

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 2: Brown the Meat

1. Increase the heat to medium-high and add the ground beef or pork to the pot.
2. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until it is browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Drain any excess fat if needed, then season the meat and vegetables with salt, pepper, dried thyme, and smoked paprika for extra flavor.

Step 3: Add the Liquids and Cabbage

1. Stir in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, beef or chicken broth, and Worcestershire sauce.
2. Add the chopped cabbage to the pot, stirring to combine. If you prefer a thinner soup, add the extra water at this stage.

Step 4: Add the Rice and Simmer

1. Rinse the rice under cold water and add it to the pot, stirring to distribute it evenly.
2. Add the bay leaf and bring the soup to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Once the soup is boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes until the cabbage is tender and the rice is fully cooked. Stir occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

Step 5: Adjust Seasoning

1. Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or Worcestershire sauce to enhance the flavor.
2. If the soup is too thick, you can add additional broth or water until it reaches your desired consistency.

Step 6: Serve

1. Remove the bay leaf from the pot and discard.
2. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
3. Serve hot with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a side salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This Stuffed Cabbage Roll Soup is a hearty, flavorful dish that delivers all the taste of classic cabbage rolls in a convenient, one-pot meal. With tender cabbage, savory meat, and rice simmered in a rich tomato broth, each spoonful is comforting and satisfying.

It’s perfect for making ahead, as the flavors deepen even more the next day, and it freezes well for future meals.

Ideal for cold weather, this soup is a wholesome way to enjoy the essence of cabbage rolls without the fuss of rolling.

Serve it with your favorite bread or crackers for a cozy and delicious experience. Enjoy this warm bowl of goodness and the ease of making a comforting classic in a fraction of the time!