Introduction
When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of soup to provide comfort and nourishment. This Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef is a perfect example of a satisfying, nutrient-rich meal that’s easy to prepare and bursting with flavor. Combining the wholesome goodness of cabbage, the robust taste of ground beef, and the savory depth of Lipton Onion Soup Mix, this dish is a great choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy lunch. It’s also a fantastic way to use up fresh vegetables and enjoy a comforting homemade meal.
Overview of the Recipe
This Cabbage Soup recipe is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings together the earthiness of cabbage, the savoriness of ground beef, and the tangy sweetness of stewed tomatoes. The addition of Lipton Onion Soup Mix adds a depth of flavor that elevates this humble soup to a delicious, crowd-pleasing meal. It’s easy to prepare in a single pot, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, this soup is versatile; you can customize the spices to suit your taste, making it as mild or as spicy as you like.
History and Origin
Cabbage soup has a long history as a staple in many cultures, particularly in Europe, where cabbage is a common ingredient due to its affordability, nutritional value, and long shelf life. In various forms, cabbage soup has been a traditional dish in countries like Poland, Russia, and Germany. This version, enhanced with ground beef and a packet of Lipton Onion Soup Mix, is a modern twist on the classic, blending convenience with rich, homemade flavors. It’s a great example of how traditional recipes can be adapted to suit contemporary tastes and lifestyles.
Ingredients
- 1 large cabbage, chopped
- 2 small onions, diced
- 2 cans of stewed tomatoes (14.5 oz each)
- 1 pouch Lipton Onion Soup Mix (any flavor)
- 1 large celery stalk, chopped very small
- 1-2 pounds ground beef
- Spices of your choice (e.g., garlic powder, black pepper, paprika)
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables:
- Begin by washing and chopping the cabbage into bite-sized pieces.
- Dice the onions and chop the celery stalk into small pieces.
- Start the Soup Base:
- Fill a large saucepan halfway with water and bring it to a boil.
- Once boiling, add the chopped cabbage, diced onions, celery, and the two cans of stewed tomatoes (including the liquid).
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the mixture simmer gently.
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- While the vegetables are simmering, heat a separate skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
- Cook until the beef is browned and fully cooked through, about 7-10 minutes.
- Drain any excess fat from the skillet.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Add the cooked ground beef to the simmering pot of vegetables.
- Stir in the Lipton Onion Soup Mix, making sure it’s evenly distributed throughout the soup.
- Season the Soup:
- Add your choice of spices to the pot. Common options include garlic powder, black pepper, and paprika.
- Stir to combine, and let the soup simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Final Adjustments and Serve:
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or other spices to suit your preference.
- Once satisfied with the flavor, remove the soup from the heat.
- Serve hot, ladling the soup into bowls. Enjoy the hearty, warming flavors, especially on a cold or rainy day.
Serving and Pairing Suggestions
This Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef is a filling and nutritious meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread or a side of crackers. For a more substantial meal, consider serving it with a side salad or some roasted vegetables. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to your bowl. This soup is also excellent when topped with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill.
Variations of the Recipe
Cabbage Soup is a versatile dish, and there are many ways to adapt this recipe to suit different tastes and dietary needs:
- Vegetarian Cabbage Soup: Omit the ground beef and add more vegetables, such as carrots, potatoes, or bell peppers. You can also include a can of beans, like kidney or cannellini beans, for added protein.
- Spicy Cabbage Soup: Add a diced jalapeño or a teaspoon of crushed red pepper flakes to the soup for a spicy version. You can also use spicy ground beef or sausage instead of regular ground beef.
- Low-Carb Cabbage Soup: Skip the stewed tomatoes and reduce the onion quantity to make this soup more keto-friendly. You can also use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef.
- Herbed Cabbage Soup: Enhance the flavor with fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves. These can be added during the simmering stage for an aromatic boost.
- Cabbage Soup with Rice: Add a cup of cooked rice to the soup towards the end of the cooking time for a heartier meal.
Health Benefits and Notes
Cabbage is a highly nutritious vegetable, rich in vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. It’s also low in calories, making it an excellent ingredient for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. Ground beef adds protein and iron to the dish, making this soup a well-rounded meal. For those watching their fat intake, consider using lean ground beef or even ground turkey. Additionally, this soup is a good way to increase your vegetable intake, and it can be made even healthier by reducing the amount of added salt and opting for fresh tomatoes instead of canned ones.
FAQs
Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, Cabbage Soup is an excellent make-ahead dish. The flavors actually improve after a day or two, making it an ideal option for meal prep. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze it for up to 3 months.
Q: How can I make the soup more flavorful?
A: To enhance the flavor, consider using beef broth or vegetable broth instead of water as the base. You can also sauté the onions and celery in the beef drippings before adding them to the soup for added depth.
Q: Can I use other types of meat in this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage can be used as a substitute for ground beef. Each option will bring its own unique flavor to the soup.
Q: Is it possible to make this soup in a slow cooker?
A: Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Simply brown the ground beef first, then add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
Conclusion
Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any time of year, but especially comforting during the cooler months. It’s a simple recipe that brings together wholesome ingredients to create a delicious and nourishing meal. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a dish to warm you up on a rainy day, this soup is sure to satisfy. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy the warmth and comfort of this classic cabbage soup!