Cabbage Soup Or "Just Good Soup"
A hearty and flavorful cabbage soup with lean ground beef, kidney beans, and spices, perfect for a comforting, nutritious meal suitable for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the ground beef in a 5-quart kettle until it loses its pink color but is not browned.
- Drain off the fat.
- Add the chopped cabbage, water, green pepper, beef bouillon cubes, cayenne pepper, and kidney beans to the kettle.
- Bring to a boil and cook for about 20 minutes.
- Add tomato juice and continue cooking for an additional 45 minutes.
- Add water if the soup becomes too thick.
- Serve hot and enjoy.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider sautéing onions and garlic with the ground beef. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ground beef with mushrooms or lentils and use vegetable bouillon cubes. Adding diced tomatoes or carrots can enhance the soup's taste and nutrition. Adjust the cayenne pepper to your heat preference, and feel free to incorporate other vegetables you have on hand for a more diverse mix.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cabbage soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and flavor. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad to complement the meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Beef, Cabbage And Bean Casserole for a comforting dinner experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover cabbage soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it has thickened. It can also be reheated in the microwave in 1-2 minute intervals, stirring in between until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cabbage Soup Or "Just Good Soup" contains roughly 1824 calories, with 103g protein, 295g carbohydrates, and 59g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (505% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (464% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 744mg per serving (32% 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 freeze the cabbage soup?
Yes, you can freeze cabbage soup! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and warm it on the stove or microwave, adding water as needed.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely! This soup is very versatile. Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or even spinach to boost the nutritional value and flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, so all the vegetables are tender.
What can I serve with cabbage soup?
Cabbage soup pairs nicely with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with a simple green salad or some garlic bread for a fulfilling meal. For a more filling option, it complements well with recipes like Swiss Steak Del Rio or even a hearty sandwich.
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).