Cabbage soup revolution: how to shed pounds and boost your health

Who doesn’t love a warm, comforting soup on a chilly evening? Cabbage soup with ground beef is a classic dish that is both nutritious and satisfying. It’s also incredibly easy to make, so even novice cooks can enjoy this delicious meal. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through every step of the process, from preparing the ingredients to serving the soup. So grab a pot and let’s get started on creating this culinary masterpiece!

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15-ounce) can beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Brown the Ground Beef: Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Drain any excess fat.

2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic to the pot. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.

3. Add the Cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage to the pot and stir well to combine. Cook for 5 minutes, or until the cabbage begins to wilt.

4. Add the Tomatoes, Sauce, and Broth: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Season with oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15 minutes.

5. Simmer Until Tender: Continue simmering the soup until the cabbage is tender, about 1 hour. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Variations

• Add Other Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to your soup, such as green beans, corn, or potatoes.
• Use Different Meat: If you don’t have ground beef, you can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or pork.
• Make it Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño to give your soup a kick.
• Serve with Toppings: Serve your soup with a dollop of sour cream, shredded cheese, or chopped fresh herbs for extra flavor.

Tips for the Best Cabbage Soup

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh cabbage and vegetables will give your soup the best flavor.
• Don’t overcook the cabbage: Cabbage that is overcooked will become mushy. Cook it just until tender.
• Season to taste: Taste your soup throughout the cooking process and adjust seasonings as needed.
• Let it simmer: Simmering the soup for a longer period of time will allow the flavors to develop and deepen.

Serving Suggestions

Cabbage soup is a versatile dish that can be served as a main course, a side dish, or even as an appetizer. Here are a few serving suggestions:

• Serve with a side of crusty bread or crackers.
• Top with a dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese.
• Add a side salad or a grilled cheese sandwich for a complete meal.

Nutritional Benefits

Cabbage soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Here are some of the health benefits of eating cabbage soup:

• High in fiber: Cabbage is a good source of fiber, which can help keep you feeling full and satisfied.
• Low in calories: Cabbage soup is a low-calorie dish, making it a great choice for those who are watching their weight.
• Rich in vitamins and minerals: Cabbage is a good source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and potassium.

Questions You May Have

1. Can I make cabbage soup ahead of time? Yes, cabbage soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it over medium heat before serving.

2. Can I freeze cabbage soup? Yes, cabbage soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

3. What can I do if my cabbage soup is too watery? If your cabbage soup is too watery, simmer it over medium heat until it has reduced to the desired consistency.

4. What can I do if my cabbage soup is too thick? If your cabbage soup is too thick, add some additional beef broth or water until it reaches the desired consistency.

5. What are some other ways to add flavor to cabbage soup? You can add flavor to cabbage soup by adding different spices, such as cumin, paprika, or chili powder. You can also add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice for a bit of acidity.