Hearty Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe

All the comforting flavors of traditional cabbage rolls in a hearty, easy-to-make soup! This Cabbage Roll Soup combines tender cabbage, savory ground meats, and aromatic spices in a rich tomato-based broth. With the added texture of rice and the convenience of one-pot cooking, it’s a perfect meal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends.

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Ingredients

For the Soup:

• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound lean ground beef
• ½ pound lean ground pork (or additional ground beef)
• ¾ cup uncooked long-grain rice
• 1 medium head cabbage, chopped (about 8 cups, core removed)
• 28 ounces canned diced tomatoes with juices
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 4 cups beef broth
• 1 ½ cups vegetable juice (e.g., V8)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme leaves
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Cook the Meat and Aromatics:
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, cook the onion, garlic, ground beef, and ground pork until the meat is browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat for a lighter soup.
2. Add the Cabbage:
   • Stir in the chopped cabbage and let it cook for about 3 minutes, or until it begins to soften slightly.
3. Combine the Ingredients:
   • Add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), tomato paste, beef broth, vegetable juice, uncooked rice, paprika, thyme, Worcestershire sauce, bay leaf, and salt and pepper. Stir until everything is evenly combined.
4. Simmer:
   • Bring the soup to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 25–30 minutes, or until the rice is tender and fully cooked.
5. Finish and Serve:
   • Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy with crusty bread or crackers on the side.

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Tips for the Best Cabbage Roll Soup

1. Meat Options: For extra flavor, use a mix of beef and pork. Ground turkey or chicken can also be substituted for a leaner option.
2. Rice Tips: Long-grain rice works best as it holds its shape. If using pre-cooked rice, add it during the last 5 minutes of cooking to avoid overcooking.
3. Cabbage Selection: Savoy or green cabbage works wonderfully, but feel free to use Napa cabbage for a milder taste.
4. Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, simmer uncovered for the last 5–10 minutes to reduce the liquid.
5. Make Ahead: The flavors deepen as the soup sits, making it even more delicious the next day. Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

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Serving Suggestions

• Pair the soup with buttered rolls, garlic bread, or cornbread for a complete meal.
• Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream for extra richness.
• Serve alongside a crisp green salad to balance the hearty flavors.

This one-pot wonder captures the essence of cabbage rolls without the hassle, making it a family-favorite recipe you’ll want to add to your regular rotation!