Cabbage Patch Soup
A hearty, flavorful cabbage soup with ground beef, beans, and spices, perfect for comforting meals and suitable for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt margarine; add ground beef, stirring, until browned and crumbly.
- Add onion and celery; stir often for five minutes.
- Break up tomatoes with a spoon and add to the meat.
- Add water, beans, and seasonings.
- Bring to a boil.
- Add cabbage.
- Reduce heat and simmer until cabbage is tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For added depth of flavor, consider using beef broth instead of water. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or swap out the chili powder for cayenne pepper. Fresh herbs like cilantro can enhance the taste, making it a great companion to American recipes like Skyline Chili.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Meatballs In Creamy Gravy for a comforting dinner. Consider topping each bowl with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness. This dish is also great for meal prep and freezes well for future enjoyment.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Cabbage Patch Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions, covered, for about 2-3 minutes on high, stirring halfway through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cabbage Patch Soup contains roughly 366 calories, with 20g protein, 25g carbohydrates, and 23g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (120% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (48% of the Daily Value), and protein (41% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1472mg per serving (64% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this soup vegetarian by omitting the ground beef and substituting it with additional beans or lentils for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of water and add more vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to enhance the flavor.
How can I thicken the soup?
To thicken the soup, you can add a cornstarch slurry (mix cornstarch with a bit of cold water) or mix in some mashed potatoes. Simmer the soup for an additional 10-15 minutes after adding the thickener to allow it to reach your desired consistency.
What can I add for extra flavor?
You can add Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for a savory boost. Fresh herbs like thyme or basil can also enhance the flavor profile. Additionally, a splash of vinegar or lemon juice just before serving can brighten the overall taste of the soup.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).