CABBAGE ROLL SOUP
A comforting and hearty soup inspired by traditional cabbage rolls, combining the flavors of ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a rich tomato broth. This one-pot meal is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a nutritious option for meal prep.
INGREDIENTS:
2 teaspoons olive oil
1 pound ground beef 90% lean
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 onion finely diced
2 teaspoons minced garlic
4 cups green cabbage roughly chopped
2 carrots peeled, quartered, and sliced
4 cups beef broth
3 cans 8 oz each tomato sauce
1/2 cup uncooked long-grain rice
1 bay leaf
3 tablespoons brown sugar
2 tablespoons fresh parsley chopped
DIRECTIONS:
Cook the ground beef: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add ground beef, seasoning with salt and pepper. Cook, breaking it apart with a spatula, until browned (about 4-5 minutes).
Add aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the onion is tender and fragrant.
Combine vegetables and liquids: Add the chopped cabbage, sliced carrots, beef broth, tomato sauce, rice, bay leaf, and brown sugar. Stir well and season with additional salt and pepper to taste.
Simmer the soup: Bring the soup to a simmer. Cover and cook for about 25 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
Finish and serve: Remove the bay leaf. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.