There's something incredibly comforting about a bowl of hearty soup, especially when it's filled with rich, flavorful ingredients. One such soup that perfectly encapsulates comfort is the Hamburger Cabbage Soup. This dish is not only delicious but also surprisingly easy to make, combining the robust flavors of ground beef, vegetables, and spices into a nourishing meal.
Why You Should Try Hamburger Cabbage Soup
- Nutritional Value: Cabbage, a star ingredient, is known for its numerous health benefits, including boosting digestion, being rich in vitamins, and possibly reducing inflammation.
- Cost-Effective: With ingredients like ground beef, cabbage, and pantry staples, this soup is both budget-friendly and scalable.
- Comfort Food: Ideal for chilly nights or when you need a comforting meal, this soup warms from the inside out.
Ingredients for Hamburger Cabbage Soup
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium cabbage, chopped
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes
- 6 cups beef or chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for a bit of heat
How to Make Hamburger Cabbage Soup
Preparation
Before starting, ensure all your vegetables are washed, peeled where necessary, and chopped. This preparation will make the cooking process smoother.
Cooking Process
- Brown the Beef: In a large pot, cook the ground beef over medium-high heat until it's browned. Break it apart with a spatula while cooking to ensure even browning. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Add onions and garlic to the pot with the beef. Sauté for a few minutes until the onions become translucent.
- Add Vegetables: Stir in carrots and celery, cooking for about 5 minutes until they begin to soften.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the chopped cabbage to the pot, followed by the canned tomatoes, tomato paste, and the beef or chicken broth. Mix well.
- Seasoning: Sprinkle in the thyme, basil, salt, and pepper. If you like a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes at this point.
- Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes. This simmering time allows the flavors to meld and the vegetables to soften.
- Taste and Adjust: Before serving, taste the soup. Adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or herbs if needed.
Serving Suggestions
Hamburger Cabbage Soup can be served in several ways:
- With a side of crusty bread or dinner rolls for dipping into the soup.
- Garnished with fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color.
- Alongside a light salad for a more balanced meal.
🍵 Note: This soup often tastes better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Consider making extra for leftovers!
The Hamburger Cabbage Soup is not just about nourishment; it's about the joy of cooking something simple yet incredibly satisfying. Whether you're feeding a family or enjoying a solo meal, this soup offers warmth and comfort in every bowl. Its versatility in ingredients means you can adjust it to your taste or what's available in your pantry, making it a go-to recipe for many.
Can I use a different type of meat in this soup?
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Yes, you can replace ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor profile. If using sausage, consider reducing the amount of additional spices due to its inherent seasoning.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
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Absolutely, omit the meat and use vegetable broth instead of beef or chicken broth. Add more hearty vegetables like potatoes or beans to give it a robust texture.
How can I make the soup thicker?
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You can thicken the soup by blending some of the cabbage and vegetables until smooth and then stirring it back into the soup. Alternatively, a slurry of cornstarch or flour can be added and simmered until thickened.
