Unstuffed cabbage roll soup is a hearty, delicious dish perfect for colder months. It combines all the flavors of classic stuffed cabbage rolls, minus the labor-intensive rolling process. Whether you’re craving a comforting meal for your family or seeking a healthy option to feed a crowd, this recipe is an excellent choice.
This unstuffed cabbage roll soup is full of fresh vegetables, tender beef, and a flavorful tomato base, creating a satisfying dish that is sure to please everyone at the dinner table. Not only is it incredibly easy to make, but it also offers a healthier alternative to the traditional stuffed cabbage rolls, making it a great option for any home cook.
What is Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup?
Unstuffed cabbage roll soup brings together the savory elements of stuffed cabbage rolls but in a much simpler form. Instead of rolling cabbage leaves, the cabbage is chopped and cooked in a savory broth with ground meat, tomatoes, onions, and various seasonings. The result is a deliciously comforting soup that’s packed with flavor, texture, and nutrients.
This dish is incredibly versatile, and you can easily make it with different ingredients based on what you have available or your dietary preferences. Traditionally, stuffed cabbage rolls are made with pork, but for a healthier and more inclusive recipe, we use beef or chicken, which are flavorful and just as hearty. Additionally, you can make it completely vegetarian by replacing the meat with beans or plant-based protein.
For a detailed recipe, you can also explore this unstuffed cabbage roll soup recipe that offers useful tips for getting the perfect flavor every time. Furthermore, for those interested in making healthier soups, this guide on low-calorie soup options provides a variety of delicious alternatives.
Cooking Time, Preparation Time, and Servings
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Preparation Time: 15-20 minutes
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Cooking Time: 45-60 minutes
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Total Time: 1 hour
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Servings: 6-8
Why You’ll Love Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup
There are several reasons why unstuffed cabbage roll soup is a must-try for your next meal:
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Time-Saving: Unlike traditional cabbage rolls, there’s no need to stuff individual cabbage leaves. You simply chop and cook, which saves you time without sacrificing flavor.
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Nutrient-Rich: This soup is loaded with healthy vegetables and protein, making it a great choice for a balanced meal.
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Customizable: You can adjust the seasonings and ingredients to your preference, making it easy to cater to your tastes.
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Comfort Food: The warm, hearty nature of this soup makes it the perfect comfort food for chilly days.
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Freezable: You can easily make a large batch and freeze individual portions for later, ensuring that you always have a satisfying meal on hand.
Ingredients Notes
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Ground Beef: We use lean ground beef, but you can swap it with turkey or chicken for a leaner version. Alternatively, for a vegetarian option, consider using lentils or beans.
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Cabbage: Make sure to chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. It will soften beautifully in the soup and add both texture and flavor.
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Tomatoes: Use crushed tomatoes for a rich, tangy base, and complement it with tomato paste for added depth.
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Vegetables: This recipe uses onions, carrots, and bell peppers, but feel free to add any other vegetables you enjoy.
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Seasonings: Garlic, bay leaves, thyme, and a pinch of sugar balance out the acidity of the tomatoes and enhance the overall flavor.
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Broth: Use vegetable or beef broth to add a rich, savory base to the soup.
How to Make Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Soup
Making unstuffed cabbage roll soup is as easy as chopping, sautéing, and simmering. Follow these detailed steps to create a delicious meal:
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Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by chopping the cabbage, carrots, and bell pepper into bite-sized pieces. Set them aside for later.
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Cook the Ground Meat: In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it’s browned and cooked through. If there’s excess fat, drain it off.
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Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and bell peppers to the pot with the meat. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and become fragrant.
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Add the Broth and Tomatoes: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and broth. Stir to combine. Add the seasonings, including bay leaves, thyme, sugar, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Add the Cabbage: Stir in the chopped cabbage and let the soup simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
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Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. If you like a tangier soup, you can add a little more tomato paste or a splash of vinegar.
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Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. For an extra touch, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill.
Storage Options
Unstuffed cabbage roll soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you’d like to make it ahead of time, this soup actually tastes even better the next day after the flavors have had time to meld.
Freezing: To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. You can freeze individual portions or the entire batch. This soup will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to serve, simply thaw and reheat on the stove.
Variations and Substitutions
There are numerous ways to put your own spin on this recipe. Here are a few ideas:
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Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef with lentils, beans, or tofu to create a satisfying plant-based version.
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Add Spices: If you enjoy spicy food, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes or chili powder for a bit of heat.
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Seasonal Ingredients: Incorporate other seasonal vegetables like zucchini or squash to change up the flavor profile.
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Broth Variations: Use chicken or vegetable broth for a lighter version, or add a splash of cream for a creamier soup.
Pairings and Accompaniments
Unstuffed cabbage roll soup is a filling meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and accompaniments. Consider these options to enhance your meal:
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Bread: Serve with crusty bread or a warm baguette to soak up the soup’s flavorful broth.
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Salads: A light, crisp salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup. Try a classic Greek salad or a simple mixed greens salad with lemon dressing.
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Drinks: Pair this soup with a refreshing cucumber-infused water or a glass of iced tea. A chilled, non-alcoholic drink complements the warmth of the soup perfectly.
Comparison with Similar Recipes
Unstuffed cabbage roll soup is often compared to classic cabbage rolls, but the major difference lies in the preparation process. The texture of the cabbage roll soup is softer and more comforting, with the cabbage becoming tender in the broth. While stuffed cabbage rolls can be a bit more labor-intensive due to the rolling process, this soup offers a similar flavor profile but in a much simpler form.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What seasoning is good on unstuffed cabbage rolls?
Seasonings like garlic, thyme, bay leaves, and dill work beautifully in unstuffed cabbage roll soup. You can also add a little sugar to balance out the acidity of the tomatoes.
How long can cabbage rolls stay in the fridge?
Cabbage rolls can stay in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. Reheat before serving.
How long does cabbage soup last?
Cabbage soup will last 3-4 days in the refrigerator. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.
Why does my cabbage soup taste so bland?
If your cabbage soup tastes bland, try adding more seasonings like garlic, salt, pepper, or a dash of vinegar to enhance the flavor.
Best Time to Enjoy the Recipe
Unstuffed cabbage roll soup is perfect for a hearty lunch or dinner. It’s a great option for meal prep, especially in colder months. Enjoy it as a comforting weeknight meal or serve it during family gatherings for a filling, flavorful dish.
Presentation Tips
To make your unstuffed cabbage roll soup visually appealing, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill. A dollop of sour cream on top can add a creamy contrast to the tangy soup, and a sprinkle of shredded cheese enhances the flavor and texture.
Conclusion
Unstuffed cabbage roll soup is a versatile and hearty dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re craving comfort food or looking for a nutritious meal, this recipe delivers on both fronts. With its easy preparation, customizable ingredients, and delicious flavors, it’s a soup that will become a staple in your recipe rotation.
For more savory recipes, you can also check my friend Alicia’s blog here www.infloin.com