Hearty Cabbage and Beef Soup: A Satisfying One-Pot Meal
Introduction:
When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like a hearty soup to warm you up from the inside out. This cabbage and beef soup is not only delicious but also packed with wholesome ingredients that will leave you feeling satisfied. Let’s dive into how to make this comforting dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, diced
- 4 cups sliced cabbage
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks celery, sliced
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: hot sauce, to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: Browning the Beef
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned. Drain any excess fat from the pot.
Step 2: Sautéing the Aromatics
- To the pot with the beef, add the sliced onion and diced garlic. Sauté until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
Step 3: Adding the Vegetables
- Stir in the sliced cabbage, carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables begin to soften.
Step 4: Incorporating the Tomatoes and Broth
- Add the diced tomatoes (undrained) and beef broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Step 5: Seasoning and Simmering
- Season the soup with dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for approximately 25 minutes.
Step 6: Adjusting the Flavor
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. For those who enjoy a bit of heat, feel free to add a few drops of hot sauce for an extra kick.
FAQs:
Q: Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
A: Yes, ground turkey can be used as a leaner alternative to ground beef. The flavor profile may be slightly different, but it will still be delicious.
Q: How long will leftovers last in the refrigerator?
A: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Simply reheat on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
Q: Can I make this soup vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Simply omit the ground beef and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. You can also add more vegetables or substitute with your favorites.
Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Conclusion:
Warm up your kitchen and your soul with a bowl of hearty cabbage and beef soup. With its simple ingredients and robust flavors, it’s the perfect dish to enjoy on a cold winter’s day. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this comforting soup is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire. So grab a spoon and savor the deliciousness of this satisfying one-pot meal.