Growing up, my mom’s Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup was always a family favorite. There was something so comforting about the warm, fragrant broth and the tender cabbage and ground beef. It was the perfect dish for chilly evenings, and I can still remember the way the aroma would fill the kitchen as it simmered on the stove. To this day, whenever I make a batch, it takes me right back to those cozy memories.
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Why This Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup
What makes this Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup recipe so special is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The key is in the careful layering of the ingredients and the slow simmering process that allows all the flavors to meld together seamlessly. The result is a soup that’s hearty and satisfying, with the perfect blend of savory, tangy, and aromatic notes.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
The ingredients for this Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup are simple, but each one plays a crucial role in creating the ultimate flavor profile.
- 1 pound ground beef: This provides the rich, meaty base for the soup, adding heartiness and substance.
- 1 large onion, diced: The onion adds depth of flavor and sweetness, complementing the other ingredients beautifully.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is a must-have for any savory soup, lending its aromatic and slightly pungent flavor.
- 1 head green cabbage, chopped: The cabbage is the star of the show, providing a tender texture and subtle sweetness that balances the other flavors.
- 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes: The tomatoes add a tangy, acidic note that brightens up the soup.
- 4 cups beef or chicken broth: The broth serves as the liquid base, infusing the soup with a rich, savory flavor.
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste: This ingredient adds a deep, concentrated tomato taste that enhances the overall complexity of the soup.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Oregano lends an earthy, slightly minty flavor that complements the other herbs beautifully.
- 1 teaspoon dried basil: Basil adds a fresh, herbaceous note that ties the whole dish together.
- Salt and pepper to taste: These simple seasonings allow the natural flavors of the ingredients to shine.
Step-by-Step Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup Instructions
Preparing Your Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup
With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a cook time of 25 minutes, this Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup comes together in a flash. All you’ll need is a large pot or Dutch oven and a few simple kitchen tools.
1- First, heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
2- Next, add the diced onion to the pot and sauté until it’s soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent the garlic from burning.
3- Now, add the chopped cabbage to the pot and let it cook for 2-3 minutes, just until it starts to wilt. This will help the cabbage soften up and absorb all the wonderful flavors.
4- Lastly, pour in the diced tomatoes, beef or chicken broth, tomato paste, dried oregano, and dried basil. Give everything a good stir, and let the soup come to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to medium-low and let the soup cook for about 20 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together.
5- Once the soup is ready, season it with salt and pepper to taste. Give it a final stir to ensure all the ingredients are well-combined.
6- Ladle the Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup into bowls and serve hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream, if desired. Enjoy this cozy, comforting classic!
Pro Tips for Success
- For the best texture, be sure to chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. This will help it cook through evenly and create a more cohesive, spoonable soup.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a tablespoon or two of cornstarch or flour to the broth, stirring it in and allowing it to simmer for a few minutes to thicken.
- Feel free to experiment with different types of ground meat, such as turkey or Italian sausage, to switch up the flavor profile.
- Add a splash of red wine or balsamic vinegar at the end to brighten up the flavors and add a touch of acidity.
- Customize the seasoning to your taste – try adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a little heat, or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese for a savory umami boost.
Serving and Storing Your Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup
Perfect Pairings for Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup
This Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup is a true comfort food classic that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and accompaniments. For a heartier meal, serve it with a crusty loaf of bread or a side of mashed potatoes. A simple green salad or a plate of roasted vegetables would also make a lovely pairing. And for a refreshing contrast, try serving the soup with a crisp, dry white wine or a cold lager.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup is the perfect dish for meal prepping or making ahead of time. Once cooled, the soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place the desired portion in a saucepan and warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
For longer-term storage, the soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat it on the stovetop.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup
Creative Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup Variations
While the classic Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup is truly delicious, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on this dish. For a heartier version, try adding a cup or two of cooked rice or barley to the soup. You could also switch up the protein by using ground turkey or Italian sausage instead of ground beef.
Another fun twist is to incorporate some Mediterranean flavors by adding a teaspoon of cumin, a pinch of cinnamon, and a splash of lemon juice. Or, for a Tex-Mex flair, stir in some chili powder, diced jalapeños, and a handful of shredded cheddar cheese.
Making Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup Diet-Friendly
For those following a gluten-free diet, simply omit the flour or cornstarch and use a gluten-free broth. To make a vegan or vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with cooked lentils or crumbled tofu, and use a vegetable broth instead of beef or chicken.
If you’re watching your carb intake, you can reduce the amount of cabbage and increase the proportion of diced tomatoes and broth. Serve the soup over a bed of cauliflower rice or zucchini noodles for a low-carb twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I substitute a different type of ground meat?
A: Absolutely! This Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup recipe works well with a variety of ground meats, such as ground turkey, chicken, or Italian sausage. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and seasoning as needed to accommodate the different protein.
Q: How long does this soup take to make?
A: With a prep time of 10 minutes and a cook time of 25 minutes, this Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup comes together in just 35 minutes total. It’s a quick and easy weeknight meal that’s perfect for busy schedules.
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup is a great make-ahead meal. Once cooled, the soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. Simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave when you’re ready to enjoy it.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup recipe serves 6 people. If you’re feeding a larger crowd, you can easily scale up the ingredients to make a bigger batch.
Q: What should I do if the soup comes out too thin?
A: If you’d like a thicker, heartier soup, you can stir in a tablespoon or two of cornstarch or all-purpose flour towards the end of the cooking process. This will help the broth thicken up nicely. Just be sure to let it simmer for a few minutes to cook off the raw flour taste.
Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup
- Total Time: 35
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Enjoy the classic flavors of stuffed cabbage in a comforting, easy-to-make soup. This Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup is a hearty and satisfying meal that’s perfect for chilly days.
Ingredients
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 head green cabbage, chopped
– 2 (14.5 oz) cans diced tomatoes
– 4 cups beef or chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until browned and crumbled, 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat.
2. Add the onion and garlic to the pot and sauté for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in the chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes, broth, tomato paste, oregano, and basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
This soup can be made ahead of time and reheated when ready to serve. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 25
- Category: Salads & Soups Starters
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
This Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup is a true comfort food classic that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its rich, savory broth, tender cabbage, and satisfying ground beef, it’s a cozy and comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings. Plus, with a quick 35-minute prep and cook time, it’s an easy weeknight meal that the whole family will love.
I hope you’ll give this Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup a try. Let me know in the comments how it turns out, and don’t forget to share your own tips and variations! Bon appétit!
