Cabbage Roll Soup is like a warm hug on a chilly day. It combines all the cozy flavors of traditional cabbage rolls into a hearty, one-pot meal. This recipe takes the hassle out of rolling and wrapping, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
The heart of this soup is ground beef, which adds a savory depth. Onion and garlic provide a flavorful base, while beef broth and water create the rich soup base. Tomato sauce and diced tomatoes bring a tangy sweetness, perfectly balancing the savory flavors. White rice adds body and texture, making the soup more filling. Chopped cabbage is the star, giving the soup its comforting, hearty feel. Carrots contribute a subtle sweetness and color. Olive oil is used for sautéing, and Worcestershire sauce adds a layer of umami. Basic seasonings like salt, black pepper, and paprika enhance the overall flavor, while fresh parsley provides a pop of color and freshness at the end.
This soup pairs wonderfully with a crusty loaf of sourdough bread or a simple side salad. For a touch of creaminess, top each bowl with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. If you're serving it as a main course, a glass of light red wine or a crisp beer complements it nicely.
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook them until the onion becomes translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. This step lays down a flavorful base for your soup.
Next, add the ground beef into the pot. Break it apart with a wooden spoon, cooking until it's browned evenly. This should take another 5 to 7 minutes. Once browned, drain any excess fat if necessary.
Stir in the beef broth, water, tomato sauce, and diced tomatoes. Give everything a good mix to combine. Now, add the uncooked rice, chopped cabbage, and sliced carrots. These ingredients will soak up the flavors of the soup as they cook.
Season the soup with Worcestershire sauce, salt, black pepper, and paprika. Stir it all together and bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover the pot, and let it cook for about 45 minutes. This will give the rice and vegetables time to become tender and absorb the delicious flavors.
Before serving, give the soup a taste and adjust the seasonings if needed. Once it's perfect, ladle it into bowls and garnish with the fresh parsley. Enjoy your bowl of comfort!
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