This hearty cabbage beef soup is pure love in a bowl, a nourishing meal that brings everyone to the table, eager for seconds. It's a taste of childhood, a simple, budget-friendly, and deeply satisfying one-pot meal perfect for chilly evenings. Packed with lean beef, sweet cabbage, and garden vegetables, it delivers big on flavor and nutrition, making it an ultimate comfort food.
1.5 lbs Ground Beef (80/20 lean)
1 tbsp Olive Oil
1 large Yellow Onion, chopped
3 medium Carrots, peeled and diced
2 medium Celery Stalks, diced
4 cloves Garlic, minced
1 small head (about 6 cups) Green Cabbage, cored and chopped
1 (28 oz) can Diced Tomatoes, undrained
6 cups Beef Broth, low sodium
2 tbsp Tomato Paste
1 tsp Dried Thyme
2 Dried Bay Leaves
1 tsp Salt (or to taste)
0.5 tsp Black Pepper (or to taste)
0.25 cup Fresh Parsley, chopped (for garnish)
For best flavor, properly brown ground beef, drain excess grease, and caramelize tomato paste for 1-2 minutes before adding liquids.
Allow the soup to simmer longer (up to an hour) for deeper, more melded flavors. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving; a squeeze of fresh lemon juice can brighten flavors.
This soup stores well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days (flavors often improve). It freezes beautifully for up to 3 months; thaw and reheat gently, adding extra broth if needed.
For variations, use ground turkey/chicken or stew beef (adjust cooking time). Add other vegetables like potatoes, bell peppers, or spinach. Substitute red cabbage or crushed tomatoes. Add red pepper flakes for heat or different herbs like oregano/rosemary.
To make in a slow cooker, brown beef and sauté aromatics, then combine all ingredients and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Find it online: https://fabiloustaste.com/cabbage-beef-soup/