Hearty Cabbage Soup Recipe – glassika recipes

Hearty Cabbage Soup Recipe: A Nutritious and Comforting Meal

Cabbage soup lovers, get ready for a warm, hearty, and healthy dish that’s both delicious and satisfying. This classic cabbage soup is packed with fresh vegetables, savory ground beef, and rich tomato flavors, making it a perfect meal for chilly days or whenever you need something nourishing. Whether you’re looking for a low-calorie meal, a comforting soup, or a nutrient-dense dish, this easy cabbage soup recipe has got you covered.

Introduction

There’s something truly comforting about a bowl of homemade cabbage soup. It’s wholesome, packed with vitamins and minerals, and incredibly easy to make. Not only is cabbage soup a staple in many healthy diets, but it’s also a budget-friendly meal that can feed a crowd without breaking the bank.

This simple yet flavorful cabbage soup recipe combines fresh cabbage, onions, celery, tomatoes, and a delicious blend of seasonings, creating a savory and aromatic broth. The addition of ground beef gives it a protein boost, making it a more satisfying meal. It’s low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with antioxidants, making it a fantastic option for anyone looking to eat healthier while still enjoying rich, delicious flavors.

Let’s dive into this easy and nutritious cabbage soup recipe that you’ll want to make again and again!

Ingredients

To prepare this hearty and flavorful cabbage soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Essential Ingredients

1 large cabbage, chopped
2 small onions, diced
2 cans of stewed tomatoes
1 pouch Lipton Onion Soup Mix (any flavor)
1 large celery stalk, finely chopped
1-2 pounds ground beef (depending on preference)
6-8 cups water

Optional Additions

2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
½ teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 bay leaf for extra depth of flavor

How to Make Cabbage Soup

1. Boil the Water

Start by filling a large saucepan or stockpot halfway with water (about 6-8 cups). Bring the water to a rolling boil before adding the vegetables.

2. Prepare the Vegetables

While waiting for the water to boil, chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces, dice the onions, and finely chop the celery. These vegetables are key to creating a flavorful and hearty base for your soup.

3. Add the Vegetables to the Pot

Once the water is boiling, add the chopped cabbage, diced onions, and celery to the pot. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and let the vegetables cook for about 10-15 minutes until they start to soften.

4. Cook the Ground Beef

In a separate pan, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s browned and fully cooked. Make sure to drain any excess fat before adding it to the soup. This helps keep the soup light and healthy while still adding delicious meaty flavors.

5. Add the Seasonings and Tomatoes

Next, stir in the Lipton Onion Soup Mix, stewed tomatoes, and seasonings. The onion soup mix adds incredible depth and enhances the overall flavor of the broth. If you’re using additional seasonings like garlic, Italian seasoning, or Worcestershire sauce, add them at this stage to build the flavor profile.

6. Combine Everything and Simmer

Add the cooked ground beef to the pot and stir everything together. Let the soup simmer for another 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. Taste the broth and adjust the seasonings as needed.

7. Serve and Enjoy!

Ladle the hot, savory cabbage soup into bowls and serve warm. This soup pairs well with crusty bread, garlic toast, or even a side salad for a complete meal.

Helpful Tips

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cabbage and celery give the best flavor and texture. Avoid using frozen vegetables, as they may become mushy.
Adjust the Seasonings: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, and other seasonings according to your preference.
Let It Simmer: The longer the soup simmers, the deeper the flavors become. If you have time, let it cook on low for an extra 10-15 minutes.
Add More Protein: If you want an extra protein boost, you can add cooked chicken, turkey, or even beans.
Make It Vegetarian: Skip the ground beef and add extra vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms.

Cooking Tips

Want to take your cabbage soup to the next level? Here are some expert cooking tips:

Use a Slow Cooker: If you prefer a hands-off approach, make this soup in a slow cooker. Simply add all the ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Make It Spicy: Add a dash of hot sauce or extra crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
Enhance the Broth: For a richer flavor, substitute half of the water with beef or vegetable broth.
Double the Batch: This soup freezes well, so make extra and store it for quick, healthy meals.

Serving Suggestions

This warm and comforting cabbage soup pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Here are some serving ideas:

With Crusty Bread: A slice of warm, buttered bread complements the rich broth perfectly.
Over Rice or Quinoa: Add a scoop of rice or quinoa to make the soup more filling.
With a Fresh Salad: Serve with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
As a Side Dish: Pair it with roasted chicken, steak, or grilled fish.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an estimate of the nutritional breakdown per serving:

Calories: 180
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 8g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 450mg
Vitamin C: 40%
Iron: 10%

This nutritious cabbage soup is low in calories, high in fiber, and packed with vitamins—perfect for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Storage & Leftovers

Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Warm up the soup on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave for 1-2 minutes.
Freeze: Let the soup cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the ground beef and add extra vegetables or beans for a plant-based version.

Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! Try using ground turkey, sausage, or shredded chicken for a different twist.

How can I make the soup thicker?
For a thicker consistency, let it simmer longer or mash some of the vegetables with a fork.

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Conclusion

This hearty and nutritious cabbage soup is a must-try recipe! It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and full of comforting flavors. Try it today and enjoy a warm and delicious homemade meal! 🍲🥬