Unstuffed cabbage roll soup is a delicious and convenient twist on the classic stuffed cabbage rolls. This hearty, flavorful soup captures all the essence of the traditional dish without the labor-intensive process of rolling and stuffing individual cabbage leaves. Perfect for a chilly evening or a busy weeknight, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. It's packed with savory ground meat, tender cabbage, and a rich, tangy broth, offering a comforting and satisfying meal.
What Makes This Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe So Special?
This recipe distinguishes itself through several key elements: Firstly, we focus on building a deeply flavorful broth, utilizing both vegetable and meat-based stocks for maximum depth. Secondly, the cabbage is finely shredded to ensure it cooks evenly and melts into the soup beautifully, creating a luscious texture. Finally, we incorporate a touch of acidity (via tomatoes and vinegar) to balance the richness of the ground meat and provide a bright, refreshing counterpoint. This careful balance of flavors and textures elevates this simple soup to something truly exceptional.
Ingredients for Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, finely shredded
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
- 4 cups beef broth
- 2 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup uncooked long-grain rice
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions: A Step-by-Step Guide to Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup Perfection
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Brown the Meat: Add the ground beef to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
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Combine Ingredients: Stir in the shredded cabbage, crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, vegetable broth, rice, thyme, oregano, paprika, red pepper flakes (if using), and apple cider vinegar. Season generously with salt and pepper.
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Simmer to Perfection: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through and the cabbage is tender. Stir occasionally.
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Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or a splash more vinegar, depending on your preference.
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Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use different types of meat?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or a combination of meats can be substituted for the ground beef. The flavor profile will change slightly, but the soup will still be delicious.
How can I make this soup vegetarian/vegan?
Omit the ground meat entirely and substitute with 1 cup of cooked lentils or crumbled firm tofu for added protein. You can also enhance the broth's umami flavor with a tablespoon of soy sauce or tamari.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Sauté the onions and garlic as directed, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Can I freeze this soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before storing it in airtight containers in the freezer for up to 3 months.
What can I serve with Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup?
This hearty soup pairs well with crusty bread, a simple green salad, or even a dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt for added creaminess.
This unstuffed cabbage roll soup recipe offers a flavorful and convenient alternative to the traditional dish. Its versatility, ease of preparation, and delicious taste make it a perfect addition to any weeknight dinner rotation. Enjoy!
