Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup – A Cozy, Comforting Classic

Growing up, nothing quite compared to the aroma of my grandma’s famous Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup simmering away on the stovetop. The blend of savory ground beef, fragrant herbs, and tender cabbage would fill the kitchen, instantly transporting me back to her cozy farmhouse. As I’d sit around the table with my family, eagerly awaiting that first steaming spoonful, I knew I was in for a truly comforting and delicious experience.

Even now, as an adult, that same sense of nostalgia and satisfaction washes over me every time I prepare a batch of this beloved soup. It’s the kind of dish that not only nourishes the body but also the soul, reminding us of the simple pleasures in life. And let me tell you, this Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup recipe is about to become your new go-to.

Why This Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup Recipe Will Become Your Go-To

The Secret Behind Perfect Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup

What sets this Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup apart is the perfect harmony of flavors and textures. By skipping the traditional stuffed cabbage rolls and opting for a one-pot soup instead, you get all the same comforting flavors with a fraction of the effort. The key is in the balance of savory ground beef, sweet and acidic tomatoes, and the tender, slightly earthy cabbage. Add in a touch of fragrant herbs, and you’ve got a soup that’s guaranteed to warm you from the inside out.

But the real secret lies in the way the ingredients are prepared and combined. The ground beef is browned to perfection, caramelizing the edges and locking in that rich, meaty flavor. The onions and garlic are sautéed until they’re fragrant and slightly softened, creating a aromatic base for the rest of the dish. And the cabbage is chopped into bite-sized pieces, allowing it to gently simmer and meld with the other ingredients, rather than becoming overpowering.

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this masterpiece of a soup, you’ll need a few key ingredients:

• 1 pound ground beef: This provides the hearty, savory foundation for the dish. Be sure to brown it thoroughly for maximum flavor.
• 1 onion, diced: The onion adds sweetness and depth to the soup, helping to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic is an essential flavor that enhances the overall aroma and taste of the soup.
• 1 head of cabbage, chopped: The cabbage is the star of the show, providing the classic “unstuffed cabbage roll” flavor and texture.
• 2 cans (15 oz each) tomato sauce: The tomato sauce lends a rich, tangy flavor that ties the whole dish together.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: The diced tomatoes add a delightful texture and a pop of freshness.
• 2 cups beef broth: The broth helps to create a luscious, nourishing base for the soup.
• 1 cup uncooked rice: The rice adds heartiness and substance, transforming this soup into a complete and satisfying meal.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Oregano lends its earthy, slightly peppery notes to the soup.
• 1 teaspoon dried basil: Basil provides a fragrant, slightly sweet flavor that complements the other herbs perfectly.
• Salt and pepper to taste: These simple seasonings help to balance and enhance all the other flavors.

Step-by-Step Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup Instructions

Preparing Your Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup

With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cook time of 30 minutes, this Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup comes together in a flash, making it the perfect choice for a cozy weeknight meal. All you’ll need is a large pot or Dutch oven, a cutting board, and a few basic kitchen tools.

1- Start by browning the ground beef in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Use a wooden spoon to break up the beef as it cooks, ensuring it’s evenly cooked and browned on all sides.

2- Once the beef is fully cooked, add the diced onion to the pot and sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the onion is translucent and fragrant. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, being careful not to let the garlic burn.

3- Next, add the chopped cabbage to the pot and stir to combine with the beef and onion mixture. Let the cabbage cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it starts to soften and wilt.

4- Pour in the two cans of tomato sauce, the can of diced tomatoes, and the beef broth. Stir everything together, making sure to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer.

5- Stir in the uncooked rice, dried oregano, and dried basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the soup continue to simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the flavors have had a chance to meld.

6- Ladle the piping hot Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup into bowls and serve immediately. The rich, savory broth, tender cabbage, and hearty rice make for a truly comforting and satisfying meal.

Pro Tips for Success

• For extra flavor, consider browning the ground beef in batches to get a nice sear on the edges. This will add depth and complexity to the soup.
• If you prefer a thicker, more stew-like consistency, you can reduce the amount of beef broth to 1 1/2 cups and let the soup simmer for a bit longer.
• Adjust the seasoning to your taste preferences. Some like a bit more oregano or basil, while others may want to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
• Grating a bit of Parmesan cheese over the top of each bowl just before serving can add a delightful savory and creamy element.
• For a heartier meal, serve the Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup with a side of crusty bread or garlic-parmesan breadsticks for dipping.

Serving and Storing Your Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup

Perfect Pairings for Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup

This Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup, which yields 6 servings, is the perfect cozy and comforting meal on its own. But if you’re looking to round out the dish, there are plenty of delicious options. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette makes a refreshing accompaniment, helping to balance the richness of the soup. For a heartier meal, you can’t go wrong with a slice of warm, crusty bread or a batch of homemade garlic knots for dipping.

As for beverages, a glass of dry red wine or a cold, crisp lager would pair beautifully with the flavors of the soup. For a non-alcoholic option, a tall glass of iced tea or even a mug of hot apple cider would be equally delightful.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

One of the best things about this Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup is that it makes fantastic leftovers. The flavors only deepen and meld together more beautifully as the soup sits.

To store, simply allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave until piping hot.

For even longer-term storage, this soup freezes exceptionally well. Once cooled, transfer the soup to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag, leaving a bit of headspace to account for expansion. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

This Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup also makes a wonderful make-ahead meal. Prepare the entire recipe up to 3 days in advance, then simply reheat and serve when you’re ready. The flavors will have had time to meld, resulting in an even more delicious and comforting dish.

Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup

Creative Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup Variations

While the classic Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup is truly a masterpiece, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on this comforting dish. For a touch of sweetness, try adding a diced apple or pear to the mix. Or, for a spicier version, incorporate a diced jalapeño or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes.

During the colder months, you could swap out the rice for hearty barley or even quinoa for a nutrient-packed twist. And for a springtime variation, stir in some fresh chopped spinach or kale just before serving.

If you’re a fan of mushrooms, sautéing some sliced cremini or portobello mushrooms and adding them to the soup can lend an earthy, umami-rich flavor. You could also experiment with different types of ground meat, such as turkey or Italian sausage, to change up the profile.

Making Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup Diet-Friendly

For those with dietary restrictions or preferences, this Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup can easily be adapted to suit your needs.

To make it gluten-free, simply use a gluten-free broth and swap the regular rice for a gluten-free grain, such as quinoa or cauliflower rice.

For a vegan or vegetarian version, replace the ground beef with plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms, and use a vegetable broth instead of beef. You can also omit the rice and serve the soup over a bed of cooked farro or barley.

If you’re following a low-carb or keto diet, leave out the rice and serve the soup over a bed of steamed cauliflower or zucchini noodles. You can also use a low-carb tomato sauce and adjust the amount of broth to achieve your desired consistency.

No matter your dietary needs, this Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup can be easily customized to fit your lifestyle while still delivering the same cozy, comforting flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?
A: Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken would work just as well in this Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup recipe. The cooking times and instructions would remain the same.

Q: How long does the soup take to prepare and cook?
A: This Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup has a total preparation and cooking time of 45 minutes. The prep time is 15 minutes, and the cook time is 30 minutes.

Q: Can I make this soup in advance and reheat it later?
A: Yes, this soup makes excellent leftovers! You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until piping hot.

Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup recipe yields 6 servings, making it a great choice for a family meal or for meal prepping.

Q: My soup turned out too thin. How can I thicken it up?
A: If you’d like a thicker, stew-like consistency, you can try reducing the amount of beef broth to 1 1/2 cups. You can also let the soup simmer for a bit longer to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.

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Conclusion

This Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup is truly a one-pot wonder that’s sure to become a new family favorite. With its perfect balance of flavors, hearty ingredients, and comforting texture, it’s a meal that nourishes the body and the soul.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a dish to share with loved ones, this Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup is always a winner. So go ahead, give it a try, and get ready to be swept away by the nostalgic, homemade flavors. Don’t forget to let me know how it turns out – I can’t wait to hear about your experience!