Are you craving a hearty, flavorful soup that's also surprisingly healthy and easy to make? Look no further! This unstuffed cabbage soup recipe delivers all the comforting goodness of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls, without all the fuss. It's a perfect weeknight dinner, a delicious way to use up leftover vegetables, and a fantastic example of healthy homemade cooking. This easy recipe is packed with flavor and nutrients, making it one of the best recipes for a satisfying and quick dinner.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 pound ground beef (or turkey for a leaner option)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup uncooked long-grain rice
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the green bell pepper and cook for another 3 minutes.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
Add the ground beef to the pot and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
Step 3: Add the Remaining Ingredients
Add the sliced cabbage, crushed tomatoes, beef broth, diced tomatoes, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
Step 4: Stir in Rice
Stir in the uncooked rice and continue to simmer for another 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked through.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve hot, garnished with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt (optional). This delicious and healthy meal is perfect on its own or served with a side of crusty bread.
Tips for the Best Unstuffed Cabbage Soup:
- For a richer flavor: Use a combination of beef broth and chicken broth.
- Add more vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like zucchini, mushrooms, or potatoes.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! It’s a great option for meal prepping.
Variations:
- Vegetarian: Substitute the ground beef with 1 cup of lentils or cooked quinoa for a hearty vegetarian version.
- Slow Cooker: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 300-350
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This unstuffed cabbage soup is a quick and easy recipe that's perfect for busy weeknights. It's a healthy and delicious option that's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!