Unstuffed Cabbage Soup
Highlighted under: Comfort Food Recipes
This hearty Unstuffed Cabbage Soup is a comforting bowl of flavors that captures the essence of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls without all the fuss. Perfect for chilly evenings!
Unstuffed Cabbage Soup is a delightful twist on the classic dish that allows you to enjoy all the flavors of stuffed cabbage without the time-consuming preparation. This soup is packed with nutritious ingredients, making it a wholesome meal that the whole family will love.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Hearty and satisfying with every spoonful
- Easy to prepare and perfect for meal prep
- Packed with nutrients from fresh vegetables
- A comforting dish that warms you from the inside out
A Flavorful Twist on a Classic
Unstuffed Cabbage Soup brings all the beloved flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls without the hassle of rolling and baking. This recipe is a wonderful solution for those who crave comfort food but want a simpler and quicker option. The combination of ground meat, tender cabbage, and rich tomatoes creates a depth of flavor that will delight your taste buds and warm your soul.
The beauty of this soup lies in its versatility. You can easily customize it with your favorite vegetables or substitute the meat for a plant-based option, making it suitable for various dietary preferences. The addition of Italian seasoning adds an aromatic touch, ensuring that every spoonful is bursting with flavor.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This Unstuffed Cabbage Soup is an ideal candidate for meal prep. Its robust flavors develop even more as it sits, making it perfect for leftovers. You can batch-cook this soup on the weekend and portion it into containers for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week. Simply reheat and enjoy a hearty, homemade meal in no time.
Additionally, this soup freezes beautifully. You can store it in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, just thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove. It's a great way to ensure you always have a comforting meal ready to go.
Nutrient-Packed Goodness
This recipe is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Cabbage is a low-calorie vegetable rich in vitamins C and K, while the addition of fresh vegetables and lean meat provides protein and fiber. This makes Unstuffed Cabbage Soup an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet without sacrificing flavor.
Moreover, incorporating rice not only adds heartiness but also boosts the carbohydrate content, providing energy for your day. This dish is a fantastic way to nourish your body while enjoying a comforting bowl of soup that feels like a warm hug.
Ingredients for Unstuffed Cabbage Soup
Soup Ingredients
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 large head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go for a smooth cooking experience!
Cooking Instructions
Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
Brown the Meat
Add the ground beef or turkey to the pot. Cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
Add Cabbage and Tomatoes
Stir in the chopped cabbage and canned tomatoes. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
Simmer the Soup
Pour in the broth and add the uncooked rice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 30 minutes or until the rice is tender and the cabbage is soft.
Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your comforting bowl of Unstuffed Cabbage Soup!
Serving Suggestions
For a complete meal, consider serving Unstuffed Cabbage Soup with crusty bread or a side salad. The bread is perfect for dipping, allowing you to savor every last drop of the flavorful broth. A light, crisp salad can provide a refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty soup.
You can also top each bowl with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated cheese for added creaminess and flavor. Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can enhance the presentation and add an aromatic touch.
Variations to Try
Feel free to experiment with this recipe by adding your favorite ingredients. For a spicy kick, toss in some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. If you prefer a different protein, try substituting the ground meat with shredded chicken or a plant-based alternative like lentils or black beans.
You can also incorporate other vegetables such as bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini to enhance the nutrient profile and add color. The flexibility of this soup makes it easy to adapt to your taste and what you have on hand.
Storing and Reheating
To store your Unstuffed Cabbage Soup, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the refrigerator for up to five days. When reheating, gently warm the soup on the stove over medium heat until heated through, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
If you're reheating from frozen, it's best to thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight. You can then reheat it on the stove or in the microwave. Just remember to stir well to ensure even heating, and enjoy your comforting, homemade meal!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of meat?
Yes, you can substitute with chicken, pork, or even plant-based ground meat for a vegetarian option.
→ How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the soup for longer storage.
→ Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Just sauté the onions and garlic first, then add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
→ What can I serve with this soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a side salad, or even over a bed of rice.
Unstuffed Cabbage Soup
This hearty Unstuffed Cabbage Soup is a comforting bowl of flavors that captures the essence of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls without all the fuss. Perfect for chilly evenings!
Created by: Emma Johnson
Recipe Type: Comfort Food Recipes
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 6 servings
What You'll Need
Soup Ingredients
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground beef or turkey
- 1 large head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 can (28 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 1 cup uncooked rice
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
How-To Steps
In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
Add the ground beef or turkey to the pot. Cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
Stir in the chopped cabbage and canned tomatoes. Mix well to combine all ingredients.
Pour in the broth and add the uncooked rice, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 30 minutes or until the rice is tender and the cabbage is soft.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Total Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 600mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 5g
- Sugars: 5g
- Protein: 15g