Absolutely! Here’s an expanded, detailed version of your Hearty Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef recipe, fully enriched with introduction, history, formation, methods, and even a little love for the lovers of this dish.
Hearty Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef 🍲❤️
Introduction
Nothing warms the soul like a bowl of hearty cabbage soup. This dish is a celebration of comfort food, blending tender ground beef, sweet carrots, aromatic celery, and fresh cabbage into a rich, savory broth. Perfect for cold days, meal prep, or simply a cozy night in, this soup is easy to make yet packed with flavor. Every spoonful is a hug in a bowl, balancing wholesome vegetables with the satisfying heartiness of beef.
Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this cabbage soup can become a cherished staple in your kitchen. It’s nutritious, filling, and adaptable—add your favorite spices or vegetables to make it uniquely yours.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, if beef is lean)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 small head green cabbage, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz / 400 g) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (15 oz / 425 g) tomato sauce
- 4 cups beef broth
Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
Instructions & Cooking Method
- Prepare Your Ingredients
Wash and chop all vegetables. Dice the onion, mince the garlic, slice the carrots and celery, and roughly chop the cabbage. - Brown the Beef
In a large pot over medium heat, cook the ground beef until fully browned. If the beef is fatty, drain excess grease. Add olive oil only if your beef is lean, to ensure richness in flavor. - Sauté Aromatics
Add chopped onion and garlic to the beef. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and the garlic releases its fragrant aroma. - Cook the Vegetables
Stir in carrots and celery, letting them cook for an additional 3 minutes. Then add the chopped cabbage and mix thoroughly so it begins to soften. - Build the Soup Base
Pour in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly. - Seasoning Magic
Add paprika, Italian seasoning, black pepper, salt, and red pepper flakes if desired. This combination gives the soup its warm, robust flavor. - Simmer Slowly
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let simmer for 30–40 minutes, or until all vegetables are tender and flavors meld beautifully. - Final Taste Check
Taste your soup and adjust seasoning as needed. More salt, pepper, or even a touch of sugar can balance the acidity from the tomatoes if desired.
History & Background
Cabbage soup has roots in many cultures worldwide—from Eastern European kapusniak to Russian shchi and traditional Irish cabbage stews. Its history is tied to frugality and nourishment, often cooked during colder months with inexpensive, hearty ingredients like cabbage and root vegetables. Adding ground beef modernizes this classic comfort dish, making it richer and more filling for contemporary palates.
Formation & Composition
This soup is built layer by layer:
- Protein Layer: Ground beef adds depth, richness, and satiety.
- Vegetable Layer: Carrots, celery, and cabbage provide texture, sweetness, and fiber.
- Liquid Layer: Tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and beef broth create a savory, slightly tangy base.
- Seasoning Layer: Paprika, Italian seasoning, black pepper, and optional red pepper flakes deliver aroma, warmth, and subtle spice.
Simmering slowly allows flavors to meld, forming a cohesive and hearty soup that’s greater than the sum of its parts.
Serving & Enjoyment
Serve hot with crusty bread, garlic rolls, or even over cooked rice or noodles. This soup is perfect for:
- Family dinners
- Meal prepping for the week
- Comfort food cravings on chilly nights
It’s also excellent for freezing—just portion into airtight containers and reheat as needed.
Lovers of This Dish ❤️
Those who love wholesome, cozy meals will adore this soup. Ground beef enthusiasts, vegetable lovers, and anyone who appreciates a classic, nourishing broth will find this recipe irresistible. It’s the kind of dish that invites seconds and leaves a warm, lingering satisfaction.
Conclusion
Hearty Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef is more than just a meal—it’s a hug in a bowl. With simple ingredients, step-by-step methods, and timeless flavors, it’s perfect for cold evenings, busy weekdays, or whenever you crave comfort. Each bite is a blend of savory, sweet, and wholesome goodness—a true testament to the joy of home-cooked meals.
If you want, I can also create a “fancier version” with extra flavor layers like smoked paprika, bacon, and fresh herbs that turns this humble cabbage soup into a gourmet experience. It would be a real showstopper for dinner!
Do you want me to do that?