This recipe delivers a delicious and satisfying cabbage soup packed with flavor, thanks to the addition of ground beef. It's a budget-friendly meal that's perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner. This hearty soup is also surprisingly versatile; feel free to adjust the vegetables and spices to your liking!
What Makes This Cabbage Soup Recipe Special?
Unlike many cabbage soup recipes that rely heavily on broth, this one builds a rich flavor base by browning the hamburger first. This adds depth and umami to the soup, making it far more satisfying than a broth-only version. We also incorporate a variety of vegetables to ensure a nutritionally balanced and flavorful meal. This isn't your grandma's watery cabbage soup; this is a hearty, flavorful experience.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 medium green cabbage, shredded (about 6 cups)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- 2 bay leaves
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions for a Delicious Cabbage Soup
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Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat. Break it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain off any excess grease.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Add the Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the shredded cabbage, beef broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, oregano, black pepper, salt, and bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it becomes!
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Season and Serve: Remove the bay leaves before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt and pepper to your liking. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken would work well as a substitute for the ground beef. You might need to adjust the seasoning slightly to complement the different flavor profiles.
How can I make this soup spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce during the simmering process. You could also incorporate a diced jalapeño or serrano pepper with the other vegetables.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Brown the beef as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
What can I serve with this cabbage soup?
This hearty soup pairs well with crusty bread, a side salad, or even cornbread.
Can I freeze leftover cabbage soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before storing in airtight containers in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Tips for the Best Cabbage Soup
- Don't overcook the cabbage: Overcooked cabbage can become mushy. Aim for tender-crisp cabbage.
- Adjust the seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile.
- Add other vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes, green beans, or zucchini.
- Make it a complete meal: Add cooked pasta, noodles, or rice for a heartier meal.
Enjoy your delicious and satisfying homemade cabbage soup with hamburger! Remember to adjust the recipe to suit your preferences and enjoy the culinary journey.
