Cabbage Roll Soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that captures all the deliciousness of classic cabbage rolls

Step 3: Build the Soup Base

1. Return the browned meat to the pot.
2. Add the chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and beef or chicken broth.
3. Stir in paprika, thyme, salt, pepper, and the bay leaf.

Step 4: Add Rice (Optional)

• If you want a heartier soup that feels even more like traditional cabbage rolls, stir in ½ cup of uncooked rice. It will cook directly in the soup and soak up all the flavors.

Step 5: Simmer the Soup

1. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat.
2. Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the cabbage and carrots are tender, and the rice is cooked through.
3. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and check the seasoning, adjusting salt and pepper as needed.

Step 6: Add Final Touches

1. Remove the bay leaf.
2. Add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to give the soup a subtle tang, reminiscent of the flavor of traditional cabbage rolls.
3. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.
4. Serve hot, with crusty bread or crackers on the side.

Tips for the Perfect Cabbage Roll Soup

• Balance flavors: The soup should have a nice balance between savory and tangy. A touch of vinegar or lemon juice brightens the dish.
• Rice alternatives: For a low-carb option, skip the rice or use cauliflower rice.
• Make ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together.
• Freezing: The soup freezes well, but if it contains rice, consider cooking the rice separately and adding it when reheating to prevent mushiness.

Conclusion

Cabbage Roll Soup is the ultimate comfort food, offering the hearty flavors of traditional cabbage rolls in a lighter, soup-friendly form. With tender cabbage, savory meat, and a rich tomato broth, it’s a wholesome, satisfying meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you need a warm, filling dish. One pot, simple steps, and a bowl full of cozy flavor—it doesn’t get better than this!

If you want, I can also make a step-by-step visual version with pictures of this cabbage roll soup to make it easier to follow.

Do you want me to do that?