Cabbage Soup

Cabbage Soup is a comforting and nourishing dish perfect for any occasion. This low-carb delight combines ground beef, tender cabbage, and flavorful tomatoes, making it an ideal choice for family dinners or meal prep. With its simple ingredients and one-pot cooking method, you’ll have a hearty soup ready in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make: This Cabbage Soup requires minimal preparation and can be cooked in just one pot.
• Flavorful: The combination of beef, cabbage, and spices creates a deliciously rich flavor that warms the soul.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Leftovers store well in the fridge, making it great for quick lunches throughout the week.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily modify this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or spices.
• Low Carb: Perfect for those following a low-carb diet while still enjoying a satisfying meal.

Tools and Preparation

To make this delicious Cabbage Soup, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cooking utensil
• Measuring spoons
• Knife
• Chopping board

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking all ingredients together without making a mess.
• Cooking utensil: A sturdy spoon helps in browning the beef evenly and stirring the soup well.
• Measuring spoons: Ensures accurate measurements of spices for consistent flavor every time.

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Ingredients

For the Base

• 28-ounce can diced tomatoes
• 1 pound ground beef
• 5 cups chopped green cabbage

For Flavoring

• 5 cups beef stock
• 1 cup riced cauliflower
• 1/2 cup diced carrots
• 1.5 teaspoons table salt
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground thyme

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

How to Make Cabbage Soup

Step 1: Brown Beef

Add ground beef and diced carrots to a large pot over medium-high heat. Use a sturdy utensil to break up the beef as it cooks. Cook until browned, which should take about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Add Everything Else

Once the beef is browned, keep everything in the pot. Add the diced tomatoes (with their liquid), chopped cabbage, beef stock, riced cauliflower, salt, oregano, and thyme. Stir everything together for a minute to combine.

Step 3: Simmer Soup

Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a simmer. Once bubbling, cover the pot and reduce heat to medium-low to maintain a gentle simmer. Let it cook until the cabbage is very tender; this will take about 30 minutes.

Step 4: Serve

After simmering, uncover the pot and give it a good stir. Top with fresh parsley before serving hot or store leftovers for later enjoyment.

Enjoy your homemade Cabbage Soup! It’s not just delicious but also packed with nutrients—perfect for keeping you warm on chilly days!

How to Serve Cabbage Soup

Cabbage soup is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to enhance your meal experience.

With Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: Serve with slices of warm, crusty baguette for dipping.
• Garlic Bread: Pair with garlic bread for an extra flavorful touch.

Topped with Herbs

• Fresh Parsley: Sprinkle chopped fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and flavor.
• Chives: Add chopped chives for a mild onion flavor that complements the soup.

Accompanied by Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and creaminess to your meal.
• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup.

With Cheese

• Grated Parmesan: Top your soup with grated Parmesan cheese for added depth of flavor.
• Feta Crumbles: Feta cheese offers a tangy contrast that pairs well with the soup’s ingredients.

How to Perfect Cabbage Soup

To achieve the perfect cabbage soup, consider these helpful tips. They will elevate the flavors and textures, making your dish even more delightful.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh cabbage and vegetables to enhance flavor and nutrition.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste as you go and adjust salt or herbs according to your preference.
• Simmer Longer for Flavor: Allow the soup to simmer longer if time permits; this deepens the flavors.
• Make Ahead: Prepare ahead of time; soups often taste better the next day after flavors meld together.
• Freeze Leftovers: Store leftovers in airtight containers in the freezer for quick meals later on.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add other spices like cumin or paprika for a unique twist on flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Cabbage Soup

Pairing cabbage soup with complementary side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic elevate any meal.
2. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal roasted vegetables adds texture and nutrients.
3. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad packed with veggies offers a healthy, filling side.
4. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins provide a delightful contrast to savory soup.
5. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice or quinoa make a hearty addition.
6. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with tomatoes and basil brings freshness to your table.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking cabbage soup can be straightforward, but a few common mistakes can lead to disappointing results. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the beef thoroughly can lead to a bland flavor. Always take the time to brown your meat before adding other ingredients.
• Using the wrong cabbage: Some cabbages are firmer and take longer to cook. Opt for green cabbage for this recipe, as it becomes tender quickly.
• Not seasoning enough: Under-seasoning can make your soup taste flat. Don’t be shy with salt and herbs; they enhance the flavors significantly.
• Adding too much liquid: Overloading on broth can dilute the flavors of your cabbage soup. Stick to the recommended amount in the recipe for best results.
• Ignoring simmering time: Rushing through cooking won’t allow the flavors to develop fully. Simmer your soup until the cabbage is very tender for optimal taste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Allow the soup to cool down before sealing it in a container.

Freezing Cabbage Soup

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Leave some space at the top of containers as liquids expand when frozen.

Reheating Cabbage Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power, stirring occasionally until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat and stir occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making cabbage soup that may help you in your cooking journey.

What is Cabbage Soup?

Cabbage soup is a nutritious dish made primarily with cabbage, ground beef, and tomatoes, simmered together for hearty flavor.

Can I use other meats instead of beef?

Yes! You can substitute ground turkey or lamb if you prefer different flavors or leaner options.

How do I make Cabbage Soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of cabbage soup, replace ground beef with lentils or mushrooms and use vegetable stock instead of beef stock.

Can I add other vegetables to my Cabbage Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or green beans for extra nutrition and flavor.

How do I store leftover Cabbage Soup?

Store leftover cabbage soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

This Cabbage Soup recipe is not only low-carb and delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding more vegetables or adjusting seasonings based on your preferences. Give this comforting dish a try; it’s perfect for meal prep or cozy dinners!