Stuffed Cabbage Soup
A hearty, comforting soup with tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and aromatic rice, perfect for family dinners and cold evenings, packed with rich tomato flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute ground beef in vegetable oil in a 6-quart pot over medium heat.
- Add shredded cabbage and chopped onion, cover, and cook for about 4 minutes, stirring once.
- Add crushed tomatoes, beef broth, water, sugar, lemon juice, and salt.
- Bring to a boil, then add the rice.
- Reduce heat to medium low and cover.
- Simmer for 45 minutes or until the rice is tender.
- Serve hot, yielding 8 servings.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using ground turkey or sausage instead of ground beef. If you want a heartier soup, add beans or lentils, which pair perfectly with the cabbage. You can also adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of brown sugar. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can enhance the taste as well. Make sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Serving Suggestions
This stuffed cabbage soup is delicious served with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a more filling option, consider pairing it with rice or mashed potatoes. It also makes for a great lunch the next day. Enjoy it alongside other comforting dishes like Beef Stew With Lentils or a hearty Company Hot Dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, warm the soup on the stove over medium heat until hot, or microwave in short intervals, stirring in between. If the soup thickens, add a little water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Stuffed Cabbage Soup contains roughly 632 calories, with 13g protein, 100g carbohydrates, and 21g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (25% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 974mg per serving (42% 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 substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or mushrooms for a meaty texture. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and consider adding more beans or lentils for protein. Adjust the seasonings to enhance the flavor.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add heat, incorporate red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a splash of hot sauce to the soup. Start with a small amount and adjust to taste. Pairing with spicy sides can also enhance the overall dish.
Can I freeze the leftover soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove.
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).