During the cooler seasons, a warm bowl of Cabbage Soup with Beef & Rice provides comfort like no other.
This recipe is a tribute to my mother’s diet-friendly version that never compromised on taste. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, this hearty soup pairs well with a loaf of crusty bread and a dollop of butter.
Why You’ll Love This Cabbage Soup with Beef & Rice Recipe
- Comfort in a Bowl: This soup is a soul-soothing delight during chilly evenings.
- Nutritious and Flavorful: Packed with wholesome ingredients and robust flavors.
- Easy Weeknight Meal: Simple and quick to prepare, ideal for busy days.
- Versatile Dish: Customize the soup with your favorite vegetables or spices.
Ingredient Notes
- Vegetable Oil: 1 Tbsp to sauté the beef.
- Ground Beef: 1 lb for a hearty protein base.
- Onion and Garlic: Aromatic essentials for flavor.
- Green Cabbage: Freshly chopped for texture and nutrients.
- Carrots: Sliced for sweetness and color.
- Beef Broth: 4 cups of low-sodium broth for rich flavor.
- Tomato Sauce: 3 cans (8 oz each) to enhance the soup’s depth.
- White Rice: ½ cup for a comforting and filling addition.
- Bay Leaf: Adds fragrance to the simmering soup.
- Brown Sugar: 3 Tbsp for a subtle sweetness.
- Parsley: 2 Tbsp of chopped parsley for a fresh finish.
How to Make Cabbage Soup with Beef & Rice
Step 1: Sauté the Beef
Heat oil in a large soup pot, add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and brown.
Step 2: Add Aromatics
Stir in diced onion and minced garlic, sauté until tender.
Step 3: Simmer the Soup
Add cabbage, carrots, beef broth, tomato sauce, white rice, brown sugar, and bay leaf; simmer for 25-30 minutes until rice is tender.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Remove the bay leaf, stir in chopped parsley, and ladle the soup into bowls.
Storage Options
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Variations and Substitutions
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for beef.
- Add diced potatoes or corn for extra heartiness.
- Spice up the soup with paprika or chili flakes.
- Use quinoa instead of rice for a gluten-free option.
What to Serve With Cabbage Soup with Beef & Rice
- Crusty Bread: A warm baguette or artisan loaf complements the soup perfectly.
- Side Salad: A simple mixed green salad adds freshness to the meal.
- Garlic Bread: Toasted slices of garlic bread are great for dipping.
- Fruit Platter: Serve a selection of fresh fruits for a light dessert.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey is a lean alternative that works well in this soup.
How can I make the soup spicier?
Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce for extra heat.
Can I skip the rice for a lower-carb version?
Omit the rice and add more vegetables for a low-carb option.
Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Yes, the soup freezes well; just thaw and reheat when ready to enjoy.
After simmering the Cabbage Soup with Beef & Rice, you can expect a delightful aroma filling your kitchen. The tender beef, sweet carrots, and savory cabbage create a harmonious blend of flavors in every spoonful. Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy this comforting soup with your loved ones.
Cabbage Soup with Beef & Rice
Equipment
- Large Soup Pot
- Knife
- Cutting Board
Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp Vegetable Oil for sautéing
- 1 lb Ground Beef
- 1 Onion diced
- 2 Garlic Cloves minced
- 1 Green Cabbage chopped
- 2 Carrots sliced
- 4 cups Beef Broth low-sodium
- 3 cans Tomato Sauce 8 oz each
- 1/2 cup White Rice
- 1 Bay Leaf
- 3 Tbsp Brown Sugar
- 2 Tbsp Parsley chopped
Instructions
- Heat oil in a large soup pot. Add ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and brown
- Stir in diced onion and minced garlic, sauté until tender
- Add cabbage, carrots, beef broth, tomato sauce, white rice, brown sugar, and bay leaf; simmer for 25-30 minutes until rice is tender
- Remove bay leaf, stir in chopped parsley, and ladle soup into bowls