Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup

Ingredients

1 lb. extra lean ground beef I used 96% lean

1 medium yellow onion chopped

3 garlic cloves minced

5 cups chopped green cabbage about half of a medium sized head

4 cups 32 oz. low-sodium beef broth

3 cups tomato sauce (24 oz.)

1 cup shredded carrots

1/2 cup uncooked white or brown long grain rice

2 dried bay leaves

3 tbsp. packed brown sugar

1 tsp. salt

1/2 tsp. dried oregano leaves

1/2 tsp. ground black pepper

1 1/2 tbsp. lemon juice

Instructions:

Step 1:

In a large soup pot, add the beef and place over medium-high heat.

Break it apart with a wooden spoon.

Add the onion.

Cook about 8 minutes until the beef is brown, stirring occasionally.

Step 2:

Add the garlic. Stir and cook 1 minute.

Add the cabbage, beef broth, tomato sauce, carrots, rice, bay leaves, brown sugar, salt, oregano, and pepper.

Step 3:

Bring to a boil.

Then, reduce the heat to simmer and cover the pot.

Cook until rice is tender (25 minutes for white rice and 45 minutes for brown rice).

Step 4:

Remove the pot from the heat.

Stir in the lemon juice.

Let the soup rest uncovered for 10 minutes to thicken up before serving.

Remove the bay leaves before serving.

Notes:

Savory Ground Beef Base: Browning the lean ground beef with onions and garlic creates a flavorful base for the soup, infusing it with savory richness right from the start.

Hearty Vegetables: Chopped green cabbage and shredded carrots add texture and bulk to the soup, making it satisfying and nutritious. They also mimic the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls without the need for rolling.

Rich Broth: Low-sodium beef broth forms the foundation of the soup’s flavorful liquid, providing depth and richness to each spoonful.

Tomato Sauce: Tomato sauce adds a robust tomato flavor and helps create the signature taste of cabbage rolls, enhancing the overall savory profile of the soup.

Staple Ingredients: The addition of uncooked rice lends heartiness to the soup, absorbing the flavors of the broth as it cooks and providing a satisfying texture.

Sweet and Tangy Notes: Brown sugar and lemon juice balance the flavors, adding a subtle sweetness and tanginess that complements the savory elements of the soup.

Herbs and Spices: Dried oregano leaves, bay leaves, salt, and black pepper contribute aromatic and herbaceous notes, enhancing the overall flavor profile and adding complexity to the dish.

Simmering Technique: Simmering the soup allows the flavors to meld together while ensuring that the rice cooks to perfection, resulting in a comforting and well-rounded meal.

Thickening and Resting: Allowing the soup to rest uncovered after cooking helps it thicken slightly, ensuring a hearty and satisfying texture that coats each spoonful.

Finishing Touch: Removing the bay leaves before serving ensures that no one encounters them while enjoying the soup, providing a seamless dining experience.

Nutrition Information:

YIELDS: 6 | SERVING SIZE: 1 cup

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute ground turkey for ground beef if you prefer.

Just ensure it’s extra lean to keep the dish light.

Can I use pre-shredded cabbage instead of chopping it myself?

Absolutely, using pre-shredded cabbage can save time and effort in preparation.

You can find it in the produce section of most grocery stores.

Is it necessary to use low-sodium beef broth?

While low-sodium beef broth is recommended to control the overall sodium content of the soup, you can use regular beef broth if you prefer.

Adjust the salt accordingly.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use either white or brown rice in this recipe.

Just note that brown rice typically requires a longer cooking time, as mentioned in the instructions.

Can I make this soup in advance and freeze it?

Yes, this soup is suitable for freezing.

Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.

Thaw and reheat as needed.

What can I serve with this soup to make it a complete meal?

You can serve this soup with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a side salad for a satisfying meal.

Can I omit the sugar from the recipe?

The brown sugar adds a touch of sweetness to balance the flavors, but you can omit it if you prefer a less sweet soup.

Can I add other vegetables to this soup?

Absolutely, feel free to customize the soup with additional vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or diced tomatoes.

What can I do if the soup becomes too thick during cooking?

If the soup becomes too thick, you can add a little more beef broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.

Is it necessary to remove the bay leaves before serving?

Yes, it’s essential to remove the bay leaves before serving to prevent anyone from accidentally consuming them.