Comforting Cabbage Roll Soup

Experience the warmth and heartiness of cabbage rolls in a comforting soup form with Freda’s Cabbage Roll Soup. Perfect for chilly days, this soup combines ground beef, tender cabbage, and a blend of spices to create a satisfying meal that’s both hearty and delicious. It’s easy to make and guaranteed to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 lb ground beef or turkey, browned and drained
• 1 dash celery, diced (or 2 stalks)
• 1/2 cup parsley, chopped fine (optional)
• 3-4 cups water
• 2 cups (1 can) low sodium Swanson beef broth
• 4 cups canned diced tomatoes (14 oz can)
• 1/2 cup long grain rice or brown rice
• 2 cups green cabbage, chopped (or more)
• 1 tbsp sugar
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp seasoning salt (or regular salt)
• 1 tbsp pepper
• 1 tbsp garlic powder
• 1 tbsp wet beef base (can add 2 tbsp if desired)

Directions:

1. Brown the Meat: In a large soup pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until browned. Break it into fine pieces as it cooks.
2. Add Vegetables: Add the diced celery, onions, and parsley to the pot. Cook until the onions are translucent.
3. Combine Ingredients: Add the water, beef broth, diced tomatoes, and spices. Bring the mixture to a light boil. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
4. Simmer the Soup: Immediately add the rice and chopped cabbage. Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for at least an hour, stirring often. The flavors will meld beautifully, creating a rich and hearty soup.
5. Serve: Before serving, remove the bay leaf. If the soup is too thick, add water to reach your desired consistency. Serve hot with dinner rolls or crackers.

Conclusion and Tips:

This cabbage roll soup is a perfect way to enjoy the flavors of traditional cabbage rolls with less effort. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes. Feel free to share your own variations and tips in the comments below!