Cabbage Beef Soup Recipe – Perfect For Cozy Dinner

Discover a cozy classic: cabbage beef soup recipe. This heartwarming dish combines the succulent savoriness of slow-cooked beef and the comforting crunch of fresh cabbage. A single spoonful unlocks a world of rustic flavors and homestyle cooking. 

It’s not just a soup; it’s a journey back to your grandmother’s kitchen, a celebration of humble ingredients transformed into culinary magic. Our recipe pays homage to tradition while adding a sprinkle of modern creativity. Whether seeking comfort on a cold day or exploring new culinary landscapes, this cabbage beef soup answers the call. 

Each serving embodies wholesome, hearty satisfaction. Prepare for a foodie adventure that begins in your kitchen and warms you from the inside out. This cabbage beef soup – it’s not merely food. It’s a bowlful of memories, a taste of heritage, and an invitation to savor every delicious moment. 

Relish the taste journey; let your senses guide you.

What Is A Cabbage Beef Soup? 

Cabbage beef soup is a hearty, comforting dish that combines tender chunks of beef and fresh cabbage in a flavorful broth. It’s known for its rich, savory taste and satisfying texture from rustic home cooking traditions. The soup often includes additional ingredients like carrots, onions, and tomatoes, each contributing depth to the overall flavor profile. 

It’s a perfect meal for colder days, providing warmth and nourishment. Loved by many cultures, this soup represents a marriage of simple ingredients creating a symphony of flavors. Each spoonful promises a delightful taste experience, making cabbage beef soup a perennial favorite.

Can You Vary The Recipe With Other Ingredients?

• Keto/Paleo: Focus on high-fat, low-carb ingredients for a keto-friendly version. Replace starchy vegetables like carrots and potatoes with more cabbage, celery, or other low-carb vegetables. For a paleo-friendly soup, stick to all-natural ingredients and use grass-fed beef.
• Gluten-Free: This soup is inherently gluten-free as it doesn’t require flour or any gluten-containing ingredients. Just ensure the broth you’re using is gluten-free, as some brands might contain additives with gluten.
• Whole30: Make sure you use Whole30-compliant broth and fresh ingredients. Check the labels for any non-compliant additives.
• Vegetarian/Vegan: For a vegetarian or vegan version, replace beef with hearty vegetables like mushrooms or beans for protein. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. Add spices and herbs to enhance the flavor.

Recipe Directions 

• In a large stockpot, heat oil over medium-high heat. 
• Brown the ground beef and onion until thoroughly cooked. 
• Drain excess fat and transfer the flavorful beef mixture into a slow cooker. 
• Add water, kidney beans, tomato sauce, cumin, beef bouillon, salt, and pepper to embrace the wholesome goodness of cabbage. 
• Stir to dissolve the bouillon, then cover the slow cooker. 
• Set it to high heat for 4 hours or low heat for 6-8 hours, occasionally stirring to ensure even cooking. 
• Once the savory concoction is ready, serve it piping hot and revel in the heartwarming goodness of this satisfying dish.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

Variations

• Use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a leaner soup.
• Add other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for nutrition.
• Swap kidney beans with chickpeas, lentils, or black beans for a change.
• For a spicy kick, add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapenos.

Add-Ons

• Include barley or brown rice to make the soup more filling.
• For a creamier texture, stir in some coconut milk or cream.
• Add a dash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce for a deeper flavor.

Toppings

• Sprinkle shredded cheese such as cheddar or mozzarella on top.
• Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, cilantro, or dill.
• Top with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a creamy finish.
• Add a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice for a tangy twist.
• Serve with crusty bread on the side for dipping.

Can I Make The Soup In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

Slow Cooker

• Brown the beef and onions in a pan first, then transfer them to the slow cooker.
• Add the remaining ingredients into the slow cooker, stir well, and cover.
• Cook on high for 4-5 hours or low for 7-8 hours, stirring occasionally.

Instant Pot

• Use the ‘Saute’ function to brown the beef and onions in the Instant Pot directly.
• Add the remaining ingredients, stir, and secure the lid.
• Cook on the ‘Manual’ or ‘Pressure Cook‘ setting for 15-20 minutes.
• Allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 minutes, then do a quick release.

Can I Use Store Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?

You can certainly use store-bought broth for making cabbage beef soup. It’s a time-saving option and can deliver excellent results if you choose a good-quality brand. Look for broths with natural ingredients and low sodium, allowing you to control your soup’s salt level.

On the other hand, making your broth can elevate the soup’s flavor. Homemade broth often has a deeper flavor compared to store-bought versions. It’s a great way to use up leftover bones and vegetable scraps. Plus, you have total control over what goes into it.

How To Serve?

• Serve Hot: This soup tastes best when it’s served hot. Reheat if needed before serving.
• Use Deep Bowls: Serve the soup in deep, wide bowls to accommodate the chunky ingredients and broth.
• Garnish: Add your selected garnishes just before serving to keep them fresh and vibrant.
• Accompaniments: Offer crusty bread, a side salad, or a grilled cheese sandwich on the side for a complete meal.
• Serve Individually: Rather than a communal pot, serve individual portions to maintain temperature and presentation.
• Seasoning on the Side: Keep salt, pepper, and hot sauce on the table so guests can adjust the seasoning to their liking.

Perfect Side Dishes

• Crusty Bread: A fresh, warm loaf of bread is perfect for dipping into the soup and soaking up its delicious flavors.
• Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance out the hearty soup.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: This comforting classic pairs well with any soup and adds a bit of protein and crunch.
• Steamed Vegetables: For a healthier option, serve with steamed veggies seasoned with herbs and a squeeze of lemon.
• Baked Potato: A simple baked potato with butter and chives can round the meal nicely.
• Cornbread: This sweet and savory side is particularly good with soups and stews.

Storage & Make Ahead

• Refrigeration: Store leftover Cabbage Beef Soup in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors often meld and improve over time.
• Freezing: This hearty soup freezes well. Portion it into airtight containers, leaving room for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Make Ahead: Prepare the soup base in advance, excluding potatoes or any quick-cooking ingredients. Refrigerate the base, then add fresh vegetables and potatoes just before reheating to maintain their texture.
• Ingredients to Add Later: Hold back delicate herbs until serving to retain their vibrant flavors. Add freshly chopped parsley or dill for a burst of freshness.
• Flavor Enhancement: Allow the soup to sit in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight to let the flavors meld before reheating.

What Can We Do With Leftovers?

• Second Serving: The easiest option is to enjoy a second serving of soup the next day. Reheat it and enjoy it just as it is.
• New Soup Base: You can use the leftover cabbage beef soup as a base for a new soup. Add different vegetables, proteins, or grains to change it up.
• Stuffed Peppers: Use the beef and vegetable mixture from the soup to stuff bell peppers. Top with cheese and bake until the peppers are tender.
• Pasta Sauce: Reduce the soup on the stove until thick and use it as a hearty sauce for pasta.
• Shepherd’s Pie Filling: Use the leftovers as a pie base. Top with mashed potatoes and bake until golden.
• Casserole: Mix in cooked rice or noodles, top with cheese, and bake for a quick casserole.
• Quesadilla or Taco Filling: Drain off excess liquid and use the remaining beef and vegetables for quesadillas or tacos.

Nutrition Table