Cabbage Soup

This Cabbage Soup is a warm, hearty dish that’s perfect for cozy nights or meal prep for the week ahead. Combining ground beef with tender cabbage and juicy tomatoes, this low-carb delight is not only satisfying but also easy to make. Whether you’re following a keto diet or just looking for a comforting bowl of soup, this recipe fits the bill. Its simplicity and rich flavor make it suitable for family dinners or quick lunches.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just one pot needed, cleanup is a breeze.
• Flavorful Combination: The mix of ground beef, cabbage, and spices creates a rich taste that warms the soul.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy it as a main course or a side; it’s great any time of year.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make a big batch and store leftovers for quick lunches throughout the week.
• Low Carb Delight: Perfect for those on a keto diet or anyone seeking healthy options.

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Tools and Preparation

Before you get started with your Cabbage Soup, gather your tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Stirring utensil

Importance of Each Tool

• Large pot: Essential for cooking all ingredients together without needing multiple dishes.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables, ensuring ease of preparation.
• Sharp knife: Makes slicing through cabbage and other ingredients quick and efficient.

Ingredients

This low carb soup features ground beef, deliciously tender cabbage, and tomatoes. Everything is conveniently cooked in a single pot on the stovetop, and leftovers can be enjoyed for lunches throughout the week. Got a pressure cooker? Check out Instant Pot Cabbage Soup.

For the Soup Base

• 28-ounce can diced tomatoes
• 1 pound ground beef (Note 1)
• 5 cups chopped green cabbage (Note 2)
• 5 cups beef stock (Note 3)

For Added Texture

• 1 cup riced cauliflower (Note 4)
• 1/2 cup diced carrots

Seasonings

• 1.5 teaspoons table salt
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground thyme

Garnish

• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley

How to Make Cabbage Soup

Step 1: Brown Beef

Add beef and carrots to large pot over medium-high heat. Use a sturdy utensil to break up the beef as it cooks until browned, about 5 minutes.

Step 2: Add Everything Else

Keeping everything in the pot, add diced tomatoes (including liquid), chopped cabbage, beef stock, riced cauliflower, salt, oregano, and thyme. Stir everything together thoroughly for about one minute.

Step 3: Simmer Soup

Increase heat to bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover and reduce heat to medium-low to maintain simmering. Let it cook until the cabbage is very tender, about 30 minutes.

Step 4: Serve

Uncover and stir well before serving. Top each bowl with fresh parsley. Enjoy immediately or save leftovers for later!

How to Serve Cabbage Soup

Serving cabbage soup can be a delightful experience, especially when you consider various accompaniments that enhance its flavors. Here are some suggestions to make your meal even more enjoyable.

Pair with Fresh Bread

• Crusty Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into your cabbage soup, soaking up the savory broth.
• Garlic Bread: The aromatic flavor of garlic bread complements the richness of the soup beautifully.

Add a Salad

• Caesar Salad: This classic salad adds crunch and creaminess that balances the warmth of the soup.
• Mixed Greens Salad: A light mixed greens salad dressed with vinaigrette refreshes your palate between bites of hearty cabbage soup.

Include Toppings

• Grated Cheese: Sprinkle some grated cheese on top for a creamy texture that melts into the soup.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream adds a tangy finish and makes every spoonful richer.

How to Perfect Cabbage Soup

Perfecting cabbage soup is all about balancing flavors and textures. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables enhance the flavor and nutrition of your soup. Opt for vibrant, crisp cabbage and ripe tomatoes.
• Brown Your Meat Well: Take time to brown the ground beef thoroughly for added depth in flavor before adding other ingredients.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your soup as it simmers. Feel free to tweak salt and spices according to your preference for a perfect balance.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes after cooking lets the flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Cabbage Soup

Cabbage soup is versatile and pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. Here are some great options to consider serving alongside it.

1. Cornbread: This slightly sweet bread contrasts nicely with the savory notes of cabbage soup.
2. Stuffed Peppers: Flavorful stuffed peppers can provide additional protein and veggies to your meal.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies bring extra nutrients and add texture to your dining experience.
4. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges are a comforting side that pairs well with soft cabbage.
5. Fried Rice: A small serving of fried rice makes for a hearty addition that complements the flavors of the soup.
6. Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad offers a refreshing contrast while still being filling and nutritious.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making cabbage soup can be straightforward, but certain pitfalls can affect the final dish. Here’s what to watch out for:

• Skipping the browning step: Not browning the ground beef properly can result in a bland soup. Ensure you brown it until it’s fully cooked and slightly caramelized for better flavor.
• Overcooking the cabbage: Cooking cabbage too long can make it mushy. Aim for about 30 minutes of simmering to achieve tender but still slightly crunchy cabbage.
• Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Every ingredient varies in flavor, so don’t forget to taste and adjust salt and herbs as needed throughout the cooking process.
• Adding too much liquid: Using excessive beef stock can dilute flavors. Stick to the recommended amount for a rich, hearty soup.
• Ignoring freshness: Using old or wilted cabbage affects taste and texture. Always choose fresh cabbage for the best results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Cabbage soup lasts up to 5 days in the fridge.

Freezing Cabbage Soup

• Use freezer-safe containers.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. Leave space at the top for expansion.

Reheating Cabbage Soup

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish and cover. Heat for about 20-25 minutes.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about making cabbage soup, check out these common queries:

What is Cabbage Soup?

Cabbage soup is a simple yet delicious dish made primarily with cabbage, beef, and tomatoes. It’s low in carbs and high in flavor.

Can I customize my Cabbage Soup?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or even switch out ground beef for turkey or sausage based on your preferences.

Is Cabbage Soup healthy?

Yes! This low carb soup is nutritious, packed with vitamins from the cabbage, and is perfect for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.

How do I make this a vegetarian Cabbage Soup?

To make a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with lentils or beans and use vegetable broth instead of beef stock.

Final Thoughts

This Cabbage Soup recipe offers a delightful mix of flavors while being healthy and low in carbs. It’s perfect for meal prepping or serving warm on a cozy night. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or proteins to suit your taste!