There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to bring comfort and joy, especially on a chilly or rainy day. This Easy Cabbage Soup recipe is a heartwarming dish that not only warms the body but also evokes fond memories of family gatherings and cozy moments at home. For me, cabbage soup is more than just a meal; it’s a symbol of tradition and love. I remember my grandmother preparing a similar version of this soup during the colder months. The kitchen would be filled with the aromatic blend of simmering vegetables and savory spices, creating an inviting atmosphere that drew everyone together.
Cabbage soup has always been a go-to recipe in our family for its simplicity, nutritional benefits, and delightful taste. The beauty of this dish lies in its versatility and the way it can be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal after a busy day or a comforting dish to share with loved ones, this Easy Cabbage Soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Ingredients
1 large cabbage.
2 small onions diced
2 cans of stewed tomatoes.
1 pouch Lipton Onion Soup Mix any flavor.
1 large celery chopped very small.
Ground beef
Instructions
Prepare the Vegetables:
Start by washing and chopping the large cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Make sure to remove the core and any tough outer leaves.
Dice the two small onions finely. The onions will add a wonderful depth of flavor to the soup.
Chop the celery into very small pieces. The smaller the pieces, the quicker they will cook and blend into the soup.
Cook the Vegetables:
Fill a large saucepan halfway with water. This will be the base of your soup. Bring the water to a boil over high heat.
Once the water is boiling, add the chopped cabbage, diced onions, and celery to the saucepan.
Reduce the heat to medium and bring the mixture to a simmer. Let the vegetables cook until they are tender. This should take about 20-30 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Prepare the Ground Beef:
While the vegetables are simmering, cook the ground beef separately. In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef. Break it up into small pieces as it cooks.
Once the beef is fully cooked, drain any excess fat. This step is important to keep the soup from becoming too greasy.
Combine the Ingredients:
Add the cooked ground beef to the simmering vegetables in the large saucepan.
Open the two cans of stewed tomatoes and add them to the soup. The tomatoes will provide a rich, tangy flavor that complements the cabbage and beef perfectly.
Season the Soup:
Open the pouch of Lipton Onion Soup Mix and stir it into the soup. This mix adds a burst of savory flavor that ties all the ingredients together.
Season the soup with any additional spices you like. Common choices include salt, pepper, garlic powder, and bay leaves. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed.
Simmer and Serve:
Continue to simmer the soup for another 10-15 minutes. This allows all the flavors to meld together and ensures the soup is piping hot.
Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and serve. Enjoy the comforting warmth of this easy, delicious cabbage soup.
Variations and Substitutions
One of the best things about this Easy Cabbage Soup recipe is its flexibility. Here are some variations and substitutions you can try to suit different tastes and dietary preferences:
Vegetarian Version: Omit the ground beef and add more vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini. You can also add beans or lentils for extra protein.
Spicy Twist: If you like a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to the soup. A few red pepper flakes can also do the trick.
Herbaceous Flavor: Fresh herbs can elevate the flavor of the soup. Consider adding fresh thyme, rosemary, or parsley towards the end of cooking.
Lower Carb Option: For a lower-carb version, replace the stewed tomatoes with fresh tomatoes and use lean ground turkey instead of beef.
Heartier Soup: For a more filling soup, add some cooked rice, quinoa, or barley. These grains will make the soup more substantial and satisfying.
Conclusion
This Easy Cabbage Soup is a wonderful dish to make and enjoy. Its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation make it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or when you need a quick, nutritious meal. The combination of tender cabbage, savory ground beef, and flavorful onion soup mix creates a delicious, hearty soup that is sure to please everyone at the table.
Whether you’re reliving cherished memories or creating new ones, this cabbage soup brings a sense of warmth and togetherness that makes it truly special. It’s a recipe that’s easy to love, easy to make, and perfect for sharing with family and friends. Enjoy the comforting flavors and the joy of a homemade meal with this delightful cabbage soup.
