Cabbage Roll Soup by Freda: A Hearty Comfort Food for Cold Days
Cabbage Roll Soup is the perfect dish when you’re craving the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls but don’t have the time for rolling and baking. This hearty soup, adapted by Freda, is a simplified take on the classic dish, packed with ground beef, cabbage, rice, and a rich tomato broth. It’s a one-pot meal that’s ideal for a family dinner or a meal prep solution for busy weeknights.
In this guide, we’ll explore how to make the best version of Freda’s Cabbage Roll Soup, tips for success, variations, and more. I’ll also include links to related recipes and internal linking opportunities for other comfort dishes you may enjoy.
Ingredients for Cabbage Roll Soup
To make Cabbage Roll Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Ground Meat: 1 lb ground beef or turkey, depending on preference.
- Cabbage: 4 cups of shredded green cabbage.
- Rice: ½ cup long-grain rice, uncooked.
- Tomatoes: 1 can (15 oz) of diced tomatoes and 1 can (8 oz) of tomato sauce.
- Broth: 6 cups of beef broth for a rich base.
- Spices: Garlic powder, paprika, thyme, and bay leaf for flavor.
- Vegetables: 1 chopped onion and 1 diced bell pepper for added texture.
These ingredients work together to provide the heartiness and flavors reminiscent of cabbage rolls in an easy-to-make soup format. For tips on preparing ground beef perfectly, you can refer to Serious Eats’ guide to cooking ground beef.
How to Make Cabbage Roll Soup
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 50 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Brown the Ground Meat
Heat a large pot over medium heat and add the ground beef or turkey. Cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces as it cooks. Once browned, drain the fat if necessary. - Sauté Vegetables
Add the chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic to the pot with the meat. Cook for 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant. - Build the Soup Base
Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, and spices (paprika, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper). Bring the mixture to a simmer. - Add the Rice and Cabbage
Stir in the uncooked rice and shredded cabbage. Cover the pot and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes until the cabbage is tender and the rice is fully cooked. - Final Seasoning
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving. - Serve Hot
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream, if desired.
This recipe yields a hearty soup that’s perfect for warming up on cold days. For another slow-cooked meal, check out Crockpot Baked Ziti for a similar one-pot comfort food experience.
Tips for Success
To make the best Cabbage Roll Soup, keep these tips in mind:
- Use Fresh Cabbage: Opt for firm green cabbage that isn’t overly wilted, as it will hold its texture better in the soup.
- Avoid Overcooking the Rice: Add the rice halfway through cooking to prevent it from becoming mushy. Alternatively, you can use parboiled rice for better control over texture.
- Simmer Slowly: Let the soup simmer gently to allow the flavors to meld together fully. A slow simmer also helps tenderize the cabbage without making it soggy.
- Adjust Seasonings: As the soup cooks, the flavors can deepen. Be sure to taste and adjust your seasoning towards the end.
Variations of Cabbage Roll Soup
There are many ways to customize Cabbage Roll Soup to suit your tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few variations:
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the ground meat and replace it with lentils or beans for a hearty plant-based alternative.
- Low-Carb Option: Skip the rice and use cauliflower rice instead to make a low-carb version of this soup.
- Spicy Cabbage Roll Soup: Add chili flakes or diced jalapeños for an extra kick of heat.
- Instant Pot Version: If you’re short on time, this soup can be made in an Instant Pot. Use the sauté function to brown the meat and cook the vegetables, then pressure cook on high for 10 minutes.
For more slow-cooked recipes, you may want to try Slow-Cooker Chicken and Gravy Over Noodles, which is another easy comfort food dish.
Nutritional Information
Cabbage Roll Soup is not only delicious but also nutritious. Here’s a breakdown of the health benefits:
- Low in Calories: By using lean ground beef or turkey, you keep the calorie count in check.
- High in Fiber: The cabbage and rice add plenty of fiber, making this a filling meal.
- Packed with Vitamins: Cabbage is an excellent source of Vitamin C and K, while the tomatoes provide a good dose of antioxidants.
For those looking to reduce fat, you can opt for lean ground turkey or even plant-based meat alternatives without sacrificing flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Freda’s Cabbage Roll Soup is a complete meal in itself, but here are some ideas to elevate the experience:
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a slice of garlic bread or a crusty baguette for dipping.
- Salad: A fresh green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can complement the heartiness of the soup.
- Cheese Garnish: Sprinkle grated cheese like Parmesan or cheddar on top for extra richness.
For more cozy soup recipes, check out Crockpot Potato Soup, which pairs well with this cabbage roll soup for a complete winter meal.
FAQs About Cabbage Roll Soup
Q: Can I freeze cabbage roll soup?
A: Yes, this soup freezes well. Be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and warm it on the stovetop.
Q: How do I prevent the soup from becoming too thick?
A: As the soup sits, the rice will continue to absorb liquid, making it thicker. You can thin it out by adding extra beef broth or water when reheating.
Q: Can I make this soup vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Simply omit the meat and add lentils or beans as a plant-based protein alternative.
Q: What’s the best rice to use in cabbage roll soup?
A: Long-grain white rice works best, but you can also use brown rice for a nuttier flavor. Just keep in mind that brown rice will require a longer cooking time.
Q: How do I add more vegetables to this soup?
A: Feel free to add more vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers for added texture and flavor.
Internal Linking Opportunities
While you enjoy Freda’s Cabbage Roll Soup, be sure to explore other comfort food classics from ExoRecipes:
- “Slow-Cooker Chicken and Gravy Over Noodles”: A hearty, slow-cooked meal that pairs well with soup.
- “Kentucky Butter Cake”: The perfect dessert to finish off a comforting meal.
- “Crockpot Ham and Potatoes”: Another simple, satisfying meal for the family.
Conclusion
Cabbage Roll Soup by Freda is a delicious, hearty soup that brings all the flavors of classic cabbage rolls into a convenient, one-pot meal. It’s perfect for meal prepping, feeding a family, or enjoying a cozy night in. With its simple ingredients and deep flavors, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.
Don’t forget to try Crockpot Baked Ziti for another slow-cooked comfort meal that’s just as satisfying!
