Imagine a steaming bowl of ground beef cabbage soup, where vibrant orange carrots peek through tender shreds of green cabbage, all swirled in a rich, savory broth.
The aroma of sautéed onions and garlic fills the kitchen, a comforting promise of warmth on a chilly evening.
This soup is more than just a meal; it’s a heartfelt hug in a bowl, perfect for those moments when you need nourishment and comfort. I remember one particular day when the weather turned unexpectedly cold, and my family craved something hearty.
This soup, with its simple ingredients and robust flavors, was the answer, warming us up from the inside out. Whether you’re tackling a busy weeknight or looking for a cozy Sunday supper, this dish delivers both ease and satisfaction.
Ready? Let’s cook!
Why You’ll Love It
- Delivers bold flavor with a mix of beef, cabbage, and spices.
- Freezes beautifully, making it a convenient meal for later.
- Uses pantry staples like canned tomatoes and dried thyme.
- Offers a hearty, filling meal that’s perfect for any season.
- Simplifies cooking with easy-to-follow, straightforward instructions.
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef — opt for lean beef for less grease.
- 1 medium onion, chopped — select a fresh, firm onion.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced — use fresh garlic for best flavor.
- 1 medium head cabbage, chopped — choose a crisp, green cabbage.
- 4 cups beef broth — homemade broth adds depth.
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes — prefer low-sodium variety.
- 2 teaspoons salt — adjust to taste.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper — freshly ground is ideal.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme — crush before adding for more aroma.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil — extra virgin for richer taste.
- 1 cup carrots, sliced — use fresh, firm carrots.
Step-by-Step Method
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. This will create a flavorful base for your soup. Verify the oil is hot but not smoking before proceeding to the next step.
Sauté Onion and Garlic
Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté them until they become fragrant and the onion turns translucent, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
Brown the Ground Beef
Introduce the ground beef to the pot. Cook it until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. This guarantees the beef is evenly cooked and crumbly, perfect for a hearty soup texture.
Stir in Vegetables
Add the chopped cabbage and sliced carrots into the pot. Stir them well with the browned beef. This step integrates the flavors and starts the softening process for the vegetables.
Pour in Liquids
Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes. Stir the mixture thoroughly to combine all the ingredients. This liquid base will help simmer the vegetables and meld all the flavors together.
Season the Soup
Season the mixture with salt, black pepper, and dried thyme. Adjust the seasoning to taste as you go. This step is essential for enhancing the soup’s flavor profile.
Bring to a Boil
Increase the heat to bring the soup to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to let it simmer. This gentle cooking method allows the flavors to develop and the vegetables to become tender.
Simmer and Stir
Let the soup simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. This prevents sticking and guarantees even cooking. Check the vegetables for tenderness as you stir.
Rest and Serve
Remove the pot from the heat once the vegetables are tender. Allow the soup to rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period helps the flavors meld.
Serve the soup hot, possibly with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Ingredient Swaps
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with plant-based ground meat or lentils.
- Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a lighter flavor and vegetarian option.
- Replace cabbage with kale or spinach for a different texture and taste.
- Swap olive oil with any cooking oil you have on hand, like canola or sunflower oil.
- If fresh tomatoes are available, use 2 cups of chopped fresh tomatoes instead of canned diced tomatoes.
You Must Know
- Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, guarantee all vegetables and herbs are fresh, particularly the cabbage, carrots, and thyme.
- Brown the Beef: Make sure to thoroughly brown the ground beef in the pot. This step adds depth and richness to the soup’s flavor.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup before serving and adjust the salt, pepper, and thyme to suit your preference.
- Stir Occasionally: While simmering, stir the soup occasionally to prevent ingredients from sticking to the bottom of the pot and to guarantee even cooking.
- Let Soup Rest: Allow the soup to rest for 5 minutes after cooking. This helps the flavors meld together for a richer taste.
Serving Tips
- Serve with a slice of crusty bread for a hearty meal.
- Pair with a fresh green side salad for added crunch.
- Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color.
- Add a dollop of sour cream for a creamy texture.
- Serve in a rustic bowl for a comforting presentation.
Storage & Make-Ahead
Ground Beef Cabbage Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
For make-ahead convenience, prepare the soup and freeze it for up to 3 months.
Ensure the soup is cooled before freezing.
Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat on the stove for best results.
Reheating
To gently reheat ground beef cabbage soup, use a microwave on medium power.
Alternatively, you can use an oven at 300°F.
Another option is to reheat on a stovetop on low heat, stirring occasionally to guarantee even warming.
Cabbage Soup’s Historical Roots
While savoring a warm bowl of cabbage soup, it’s fascinating to ponder its rich historical tapestry. This humble dish has traveled through time and cultures, each leaving its own mark.
Here’s a quick glance at its journey:
- Ancient Origins: Dating back to Roman times, cabbage soup was a staple, nourishing soldiers and common folk alike with its hearty simplicity.
- Medieval Sustenance: In medieval Europe, cabbage soup became a crucial part of peasant diets, offering a nutritious meal that was easy to prepare and filling.
- Modern Revival: Today, cabbage soup enjoys popularity among health enthusiasts, celebrated for its low-calorie content and comforting warmth.
Exploring these roots adds a deeper appreciation to each spoonful, blending tradition with taste.
Final Thoughts
Give this Ground Beef Cabbage Soup a try for a comforting and hearty meal that’s perfect for any day of the week!
Feel free to tweak the seasonings to suit your taste, and enjoy it with some crusty bread on the side for an even more satisfying experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Freeze the Ground Beef Cabbage Soup?
Yes, you can freeze it! I always let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers. It keeps well for up to three months. When you’re ready, just thaw and reheat. Enjoy your cozy meal!
How Can I Make This Soup Spicy?
To spice up the soup, I’d add a dash of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño for a kick. If you’re adventurous, try some hot sauce or cayenne pepper. Adjust to your heat preference!
Is This Soup Gluten-Free?
Yes, this soup is gluten-free as long as your beef broth doesn’t contain any gluten ingredients. I love how it’s packed with vibrant flavors and hearty textures, making it a comforting meal without any gluten worries.
Can I Use Chicken Broth Instead of Beef Broth?
Absolutely, you can swap chicken broth for beef broth! It’ll give the soup a lighter flavor profile. I’ve tried it myself, and the savory notes still shine beautifully. Give it a go and enjoy!
What Type of Cabbage Works Best for This Recipe?
I’d recommend using green cabbage for its slightly sweet, tender texture. It complements the soup beautifully, adding a layer of flavor and heartiness. Don’t hesitate to experiment with Savoy or Napa cabbage for a twist!
Ground Beef Cabbage Soup
Equipment
- 1 Large pot
- 1 Wooden spoon
- 1 chopping board
- 1 Knife
- 1 measuring cup
Ingredients
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 3 clove garlic minced
- 1 medium head cabbage chopped
- 4 cup beef broth
- 1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 ounces
- 2 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 cup carrots sliced
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, sauté until fragrant.
- Add ground beef to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon.
- Stir in chopped cabbage and sliced carrots, mixing well with the beef.
- Pour in the beef broth and diced tomatoes, stirring to combine.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and dried thyme.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Once the vegetables are tender, remove the pot from the heat.
- Let the soup rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Notes
