Easy Cabbage Soup Recipe

Step-by-Step Recipe:

1. Start with the base: In a large pot, sauté the diced onions and celery in a little olive oil until they’re soft and fragrant. This step is crucial for building a flavor base for your soup.
2. Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until it’s browned. This not only adds a rich flavor but also provides a good source of protein, making the soup a well-rounded meal.
3. Add the Cabbage and Tomatoes: Next, add the chopped cabbage and cans of stewed tomatoes to the pot. Cabbage is a low-calorie vegetable rich in vitamins and antioxidants, making this soup an excellent choice for a healthy diet.
4. Season with Soup Mix: Pour in the Lipton Onion Soup Mix. This little addition brings a burst of flavor and adds depth to the soup.
5. Let it Simmer: Allow the soup to simmer for about 30 minutes. This slow cooking process helps in blending the flavors beautifully.
6. Taste and Adjust: Finally, taste your soup and adjust the seasonings as needed. Whether you prefer a bit more salt or a dash of pepper, customize it to your liking.

The Secrets Behind the Perfect Recipe:

The secret lies in the slow simmering of the soup, allowing all the flavors to meld together perfectly. Additionally, using fresh, quality ingredients makes a significant difference in taste and nutritional value.

Serving Suggestions:

Serve this hearty soup with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of grated cheese for an extra touch of flavor.

Keto Version Recipe:

For a keto-friendly version, replace the stewed tomatoes with fresh tomatoes and skip the Lipton Onion Soup Mix. Instead, use homemade bone broth and add extra herbs for flavor. Use a keto-friendly thickener if a thicker consistency is desired.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) for the Easy Cabbage Soup Recipe:

1. Can I make this soup vegetarian?
   Absolutely! For a vegetarian version, simply omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth or water. You can also add other vegetables, like carrots or bell peppers, for added flavor and nutrition.
2. How can I store and reheat this soup?
   This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3–4 days. Reheat it on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave. For longer storage, freeze the soup in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
3. Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
   Yes, this cabbage soup freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
4. Can I use canned cabbage instead of fresh?
   Fresh cabbage is recommended for the best texture and flavor. However, in a pinch, you can use canned cabbage. Drain it well before adding it to the soup.
5. What type of ground beef is best for this recipe?
   A lean ground beef is ideal as it provides enough flavor without too much fat. However, you can use any type of ground beef you prefer or have on hand.
6. Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
   Certainly! Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or even spinach to increase the nutritional value and flavor of the soup.
7. How can I make this soup more flavorful? For additional flavor, consider adding herbs like thyme, bay leaves, or parsley. A splash of Worcestershire sauce or a pinch of red pepper flakes can also enhance the taste.
8. Is this soup keto-friendly?
   As is, this soup is not strictly keto due to the presence of tomatoes and onions. However, you can modify the recipe (as mentioned in the Keto Version Recipe section) to fit a keto diet.
9. What can I serve with this cabbage soup?
   This soup pairs well with crusty bread, a green salad, or a light sandwich. For a low-carb option, serve it with a side of roasted vegetables.
10. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
    Yes, this recipe can easily be adapted for a slow cooker. Simply add all ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours.
11. How can I thicken the soup if it’s too watery?
    If the soup is too thin for your liking, you can thicken it by blending a portion of the soup and returning it to the pot, or by adding a cornstarch slurry (mix equal parts cornstarch and water).