When the days get colder, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of hearty cabbage soup to soothe your soul. This rustic, nutrient-packed dish combines tender vegetables, flavorful meat, and a savory broth for the ultimate comfort food experience. Easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying, this soup is a great way to enjoy wholesome ingredients while indulging in rich, delicious flavors.
Why You'll Love This Cabbage Soup
- Versatility: Swap in your favorite ground meat or sausage for endless variations.
- Healthy and Nutritious: Loaded with vegetables, protein, and fiber to keep you full and energized.
- Comforting Flavors: The combination of smoked paprika, thyme, and fire-roasted tomatoes creates a depth of flavor that's irresistible.
Ingredients and Their Roles
- Ground Beef (½ lb.): Adds a hearty, rich base with essential protein.
- Ground Sausage (½ lb.): Infuses the soup with savory and slightly spiced flavors. You can choose mild, sweet, or spicy sausage.
- Yellow Onion (1 medium, chopped): Provides a sweet, aromatic base.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Enhances the savory profile with bold, earthy undertones.
- Dried Marjoram or Oregano (½ tsp): Lends a subtle herbal sweetness.
- Dried Thyme (½ tsp): Adds a woodsy, aromatic element.
- Smoked Paprika (½ tsp): Brings a smoky depth that balances the sweetness of the vegetables.
- Bay Leaves (2): Infuse the broth with a delicate, herbal complexity.
- Low-Sodium Broth (4 cups): Choose beef, vegetable, or chicken broth for a flavorful base.
- Brown Sugar (1 tbsp): Balances the acidity of the tomatoes with a touch of sweetness.
- Worcestershire Sauce (1 tbsp): Boosts the umami factor, enhancing the depth of flavor.
- Carrots (2 large, peeled and chopped): Add a natural sweetness and vibrant color.
- Cabbage (4-5 cups, chopped): The star ingredient, providing texture and a mild, earthy flavor.
- Tomato Sauce (8 oz. can): Creates a smooth, rich tomato base.
- Fire-Roasted Tomatoes (15 oz. can): Offer a smoky, slightly charred flavor for added complexity.
- Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
- Red Pepper Flakes: Optional, for a touch of heat.
- Fresh Parsley and Basil: Add brightness and freshness as a garnish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
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Brown the Meat and Onions
Heat a large Dutch oven or heavy stock pot over medium heat. Cook the ground beef and sausage until browned. Add the onions halfway through and sauté until softened. -
Add Aromatics
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the garlic, marjoram, thyme, smoked paprika, and bay leaves. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to release their flavors. -
Build the Soup Base
Pour in the broth, followed by the brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, carrots, cabbage, tomato sauce, and fire-roasted tomatoes. Stir well to combine. -
Simmer to Perfection
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let the soup cook for about 30 minutes, or until the carrots and cabbage are tender. -
Season and Garnish
Remove the bay leaves and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with red pepper flakes, fresh parsley, or basil.
Pro Tips for Perfect Cabbage Soup
- Experiment with Proteins: Swap ground beef and sausage for ground turkey, chicken, or kielbasa for unique variations.
- Vegetable Prep: Chop vegetables into bite-sized pieces to ensure a mix of flavors in every spoonful.
- Balance the Salt: Go light on added salt, as the broth and canned tomatoes provide natural sodium.
- Use Marjoram: If you haven’t tried marjoram before, it’s worth adding for its subtle, sweet flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Pair your cabbage soup with warm crusty bread or a side of garlic butter rolls for the ultimate comfort meal. A light salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the rich flavors perfectly. For an indulgent twist, sprinkle grated Parmesan or a dollop of sour cream on top.
Why This Recipe Stands Out
This cabbage soup recipe combines ease, nutrition, and unbeatable flavor. Whether you’re looking for a comforting family dinner or a meal-prep staple, this soup delivers every time. The smoky paprika and fire-roasted tomatoes make it stand out, while its hearty ingredients ensure every bite is satisfying.
Make this hearty cabbage soup today and let its rich, warming flavors speak for themselves. Simple to prepare yet deeply satisfying, this dish is guaranteed to become a favorite in your kitchen.