hearty unstuffed cabbage roll soup

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Introduction

Unstuffed cabbage roll soup is a comforting and hearty dish inspired by traditional stuffed cabbage rolls, offering all the classic flavors in an easy, one-pot meal. It’s perfect for cold evenings and provides a nutritious, delicious family-friendly option.

Origin and Cultural Significance

Stuffed cabbage rolls are a popular dish in Eastern European and Middle Eastern cuisines, symbolizing warmth, hospitality, and togetherness. This unstuffed variation simplifies the traditional recipe by transforming the labor-intensive rolls into a flavorful soup, making it accessible to modern cooks without losing its cultural essence.

Ingredients Quantity

For the Soup:

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef or pork
  • 1 small head of green cabbage, chopped (about 4 cups)
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups (1 liter) beef or chicken broth
  • 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup tomato sauce
  • 1/2 cup uncooked rice (optional for heartiness)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Additions:

  • A pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick
  • 1 tsp sugar or honey to balance acidity in the tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup sour cream, stirred in at the end for creaminess
  • Additional vegetables like celery or bell peppers for variety

Tips for Success

  1. Browning the Meat: Ensure the ground beef or pork is well-browned to develop deep flavors.
  2. Cabbage Choice: Use green cabbage for a traditional taste or savoy cabbage for a softer texture.
  3. Rice Cooking: If adding rice, you can pre-cook it or add it directly to the soup, adjusting the broth quantity as needed.
  4. Balance Acidity: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning, especially balancing the acidity of the tomatoes.
  5. Simmering Time: Allow the soup to simmer long enough for the cabbage to become tender and flavors to meld.

Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground meat and cook until browned. Remove any excess fat.
  2. Add the onions, carrots, and garlic. Sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in the paprika, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  4. Add the chopped cabbage, beef or chicken broth, crushed tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Stir well.
  5. If using rice, add it now. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.
  6. Cover and let the soup simmer for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage and rice (if included) are tender.
  7. Adjust seasoning to taste and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Description

This unstuffed cabbage roll soup is a delightful medley of tender cabbage, juicy ground meat, and aromatic vegetables, all bathed in a savory tomato-based broth. Each spoonful delivers a comforting balance of acidity, sweetness, and earthiness that makes it irresistible.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving, Approximate):

  • Calories: 250
  • Protein: 18 g
  • Fat: 10 g
  • Carbohydrates: 20 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Sugars: 6 g

Conclusion

Unstuffed cabbage roll soup is a time-saving alternative to traditional stuffed rolls, offering the same wholesome goodness in a fraction of the time. It’s a perfect recipe to warm the soul while providing essential nutrients.

Recommendation

Pair this soup with crusty bread or a side of mashed potatoes for a complete meal. It’s also excellent for meal prep as it reheats beautifully, making it an ideal candidate for busy weeks.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

Enjoying this soup not only satisfies your cravings for comfort food but also delivers a nutrient-packed meal.

With its high fiber and protein content, it’s a health-conscious choice that doesn’t compromise on taste. Feel free to adapt the recipe to your dietary needs by using ground turkey or adding more vegetables.

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