Hearty Beef and Cabbage Soup

Heat Oil and Brown the Beef: In a large pot, heat 2 teaspoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, season with salt and pepper, and cook for 4-5 minutes, breaking the meat apart with a spatula, until browned.
Add Onion and Garlic: Stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant.
Combine the Vegetables and Broth: Add the chopped cabbage, carrots, beef broth, tomato sauce, rice, bay leaf, and brown sugar to the pot. Season again with salt and pepper to taste.
Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook for 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and the flavors have melded together.
Serve: Remove the bay leaf and discard it. Garnish the soup with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve with crusty bread or garlic bread for dipping.
Add a side of mashed potatoes to make the meal even heartier.
Pair with a light green salad for a refreshing balance.
Top with sour cream or shredded cheese for added richness.
Serve alongside buttered cornbread for a Southern-style comfort meal.
Cooking Tips:
Use lean ground beef (90% or higher) for a healthier version with less fat.
Brown the beef well to add a rich, caramelized flavor to the soup.
If you prefer a thicker soup, add an extra 1/4 cup of rice.
For added flavor, you can include a splash of Worcestershire sauce or balsamic vinegar.
Make it spicy by adding crushed red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño.
Nutritional Benefits:
Cabbage is rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants, promoting good digestion.
Carrots provide beta-carotene, which supports eye health.
Lean ground beef offers a good source of protein and iron.
Brown sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes, while adding a subtle sweetness.
The broth and vegetables make this soup nutrient-dense and hydrating.
Dietary Information:
Dairy-Free
Gluten-Free (if you use gluten-free broth and tomato sauce)
Low-carb adaptable (reduce or omit the rice)
Nut-Free
Soy-Free
Nutritional Facts (per serving, estimated):
Calories: 350 kcal
Protein: 20g
Fat: 12g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 6g
Sugar: 10g
Sodium: 850mg
Storage:
Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezing: The soup freezes well. Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
Simple Ingredients: Uses everyday ingredients that are easy to find.
One-Pot Meal: Minimal clean-up since everything cooks in one pot.
Comforting: Perfect for chilly days or when you need a hearty, satisfying meal.
Family-Friendly: Loved by both kids and adults with its rich flavors.
Versatile: You can customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or switching up the protein.
Conclusion:
This Hearty Beef and Cabbage Soup is the ultimate comfort food, with a rich, flavorful broth and tender vegetables. It’s a great recipe to make in a large batch, and it stores well, making it perfect for meal prep. Whether you’re serving it for dinner on a cold evening or packing it for lunch, it’s sure to satisfy your taste buds and nourish your body. Try it with different side dishes to keep things interesting!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef? Yes! Ground turkey is a great substitute if you want a leaner option.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker? Yes, you can brown the beef and then transfer all ingredients to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-7 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
How can I make this soup vegetarian? You can substitute the beef with a plant-based ground meat alternative and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
Can I freeze the leftovers? Absolutely! This soup freezes well for up to 3 months. Just thaw and reheat before serving.
Can I add other vegetables? Yes! You can add potatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers for more texture and flavor.