Cozy up with a bowl of warmth: how to make irresistible cabbage soup with ground beef

Cabbage soup with ground beef is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for cold nights or when you’re feeling under the weather. It’s packed with vegetables, lean protein, and flavorful broth, making it a nutritious and satisfying meal. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every step of how to make cabbage soup with ground beef, from prepping the ingredients to serving the perfect bowl.

Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound ground beef (90% lean or higher)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 head of cabbage, chopped
• 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 6 cups beef broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving:

• Sour cream
• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Chopped fresh parsley

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Ground Beef:

In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and crumbled. Drain any excess fat.

2. Sauté the Vegetables:

Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.

3. Add the Cabbage:

Stir in the chopped cabbage and cook until it starts to wilt, about 3 minutes.

4. Pour in the Canned Tomatoes and Tomato Sauce:

Add the diced tomatoes and tomato sauce to the pot and stir to combine.

5. Add the Beef Broth and Seasonings:

Pour in the beef broth and add the bay leaf, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes.

6. Remove the Bay Leaf:

Once the soup has simmered, remove the bay leaf and discard it.

7. Serve and Enjoy:

Ladle the cabbage soup into bowls and top with sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped fresh parsley. Serve with a crusty bread or crackers for dipping.

Tips for the Perfect Cabbage Soup

• Use lean ground beef: This will help reduce the fat content of the soup.
• Don’t overcook the vegetables: They should be tender but still have a bit of a crunch.
• Season to taste: Add more salt and pepper to your liking.
• Let the soup simmer: This allows the flavors to meld and develop.
• Serve with your favorite toppings: Sour cream, shredded cheddar cheese, and chopped fresh parsley are all great options.

Variations

• Add other vegetables: Try adding chopped potatoes, green beans, or corn to your soup.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a chopped jalapeño to give your soup a kick.
• Use different types of ground meat: Ground turkey or chicken can be used as a substitute for ground beef.
• Add beans: For a more hearty soup, add a can of drained and rinsed kidney beans or black beans.
• Make it vegetarian: Omit the ground beef and add extra vegetables, such as mushrooms or bell peppers.

Health Benefits of Cabbage Soup

Cabbage soup is a nutritious meal that offers several health benefits:

• Low in calories: A bowl of cabbage soup typically contains around 200-300 calories.
• High in fiber: Cabbage is a good source of fiber, which helps keep you feeling full and satisfied.
• Rich in vitamins and minerals: Cabbage soup is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium.
• May support weight loss: Cabbage soup is a low-calorie, filling meal that can help you lose weight.
• May reduce inflammation: Cabbage contains antioxidants that may help reduce inflammation in the body.

Serving Suggestions

Cabbage soup is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course or a side dish. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• As a main course: Serve cabbage soup with a crusty bread or crackers for dipping.
• As a side dish: Serve cabbage soup alongside grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a salad.
• As a meal prep option: Make a large batch of cabbage soup and portion it into individual containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Key Points: Savor the Comfort and Nourishment of Homemade Cabbage Soup

Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal on a cold night or a nutritious and flavorful dish to support your health, cabbage soup with ground beef is a perfect choice. With its simple ingredients, easy preparation, and customizable variations, this classic recipe is a staple in many kitchens. So gather your ingredients and prepare to savor the warmth and nourishment of a homemade bowl of cabbage soup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How can I make my cabbage soup thicker?
A: You can add a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and water) to the soup and cook until thickened.

Q: Can I freeze cabbage soup?
A: Yes, you can freeze cabbage soup for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing.

Q: How long does cabbage soup last in the refrigerator?
A: Cabbage soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.