Are you searching for a simple yet delicious recipe that’s both nutritious and budget-friendly? Our Easy Cabbage Soup is the perfect answer! Packed with the goodness of fresh vegetables and savory ground beef, this soup is not only a treat to your taste buds but also a fantastic choice for health-conscious individuals. Let’s explore how to whip up this delightful dish in no time.
Delicious & Nutritious Easy Cabbage Soup: Perfect for Family Dinners
Susan: “Our Easy Cabbage Soup has been a family favorite for generations. Originating from my grandmother’s kitchen, this recipe has been passed down, bringing comfort and warmth to every family gathering. It’s not just a soup; it’s a bowl full of memories and love.”
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 6
Ingredients:
- 1 large cabbage, chopped
- 2 small onions, diced
- 2 cans of stewed tomatoes
- 1 pouch Lipton Onion Soup Mix (any flavor)
- 1 large celery stalk, chopped very small
- Ground beef (quantity as per preference)
Step-by-Step Recipe:
- Start with the Base: In a large pot, sauté the diced onions and celery in a little olive oil until they’re soft and fragrant. This step is crucial for building a flavor base for your soup.
- Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until it’s browned. This not only adds a rich flavor but also provides a good source of protein, making the soup a well-rounded meal.
- Add the Cabbage and Tomatoes: Next, add the chopped cabbage and cans of stewed tomatoes to the pot. Cabbage is a low-calorie vegetable rich in vitamins and antioxidants, making this soup an excellent choice for a healthy diet.
- Season with Soup Mix: Pour in the Lipton Onion Soup Mix. This little addition brings a burst of flavor and adds depth to the soup.
- Let it Simmer: Allow the soup to simmer for about 30 minutes. This slow cooking process helps in blending the flavors beautifully.
- Taste and Adjust: Finally, taste your soup and adjust the seasonings as needed. Whether you prefer a bit more salt or a dash of pepper, customize it to your liking.
The Secrets Behind Perfect Recipe:
The secret lies in the slow simmering of the soup, allowing all the flavors to meld together perfectly. Additionally, using fresh, quality ingredients makes a significant difference in the taste and nutritional value.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve this hearty soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of grated cheese for an extra touch of flavor.
Keto Version Recipe:
For a Keto-friendly version, replace the stewed tomatoes with fresh tomatoes and skip the Lipton Onion Soup Mix. Instead, use homemade bone broth and add extra herbs for flavor. Use a keto-friendly thickener if a thicker consistency is desired.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Here are some Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for the Easy Cabbage Soup Recipe:
- Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! For a vegetarian version, simply omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth or water. You can also add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added flavor and nutrition. - How can I store and reheat this soup?
This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave. For longer storage, freeze the soup in airtight containers for up to 3 months. - Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, this cabbage soup freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. - Can I use canned cabbage instead of fresh?
Fresh cabbage is recommended for the best texture and flavor. However, in a pinch, you can use canned cabbage. Drain it well before adding it to the soup. - What type of ground beef is best for this recipe?
A lean ground beef is ideal as it provides enough flavor without too much fat. However, you can use any type of ground beef you prefer or have on hand. - Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Certainly! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or even spinach to increase the nutritional value and flavor of the soup. - How can I make this soup more flavorful?
For additional flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme, bay leaves, or parsley. A splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes can also enhance the taste. - Is this soup keto-friendly?
As is, this soup is not strictly keto due to the presence of tomatoes and onions. However, you can modify the recipe (as mentioned in the Keto Version Recipe section) to fit a keto diet. - What can I serve with this cabbage soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a green salad, or a light sandwich. For a low-carb option, serve it with a side of roasted vegetables. - Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, this recipe can easily be adapted for a slow cooker. Simply add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. - How can I thicken the soup if it’s too watery?
If the soup is too thin for your liking, you can thicken it by blending a portion of the soup and returning it to the pot, or by adding a cornstarch slurry (mix equal parts cornstarch and water).
Our Easy Cabbage Soup is not just a meal; it’s a healthy, wholesome experience that’s perfect for any day of the week. It’s a testament to how simple ingredients can create something extraordinarily delicious and nutritious. Plus, it’s incredibly budget-friendly, making it a smart choice for families and individuals alike.
