Cabbage Roll Tomato Soup Recipe

Cabbage rolls and tomato soup are two comfort food classics that bring a satisfying warmth and rich flavors to the table. But what happens when you combine these two favorites into one delicious, hearty dish? You get Cabbage Roll Tomato Soup-a comforting soup that combines the flavors of stuffed cabbage rolls in a rich, tangy, and savory tomato base.

This dish has everything you love about cabbage rolls, but with an added twist. The cabbage gets tender and soft, melding beautifully with the rich, aromatic tomato broth, and the savory meat filling that is so iconic to cabbage rolls. If you’re in the mood for a hearty, warming meal, this soup is the perfect choice.

Let’s dive into the recipe, ingredients, and expert tips on how to make this incredible soup!

Cabbage Roll Tomato Soup Recipe

This is a one-pot wonder that’s not only filling but packed with flavors. It’s a fantastic dish to make ahead of time, as the flavors meld together beautifully as it sits. Whether you’re feeding a family or meal prepping for the week, this soup is sure to satisfy.

Ingredients Needed

To make this Cabbage Roll Tomato Soup, you’ll need a few key ingredients that come together to create layers of savory, tangy, and aromatic goodness:

• Ground Beef or Pork (or a combination of both): This will form the base of your “cabbage roll” filling, adding that rich, meaty flavor.
• Cabbage: The star of the show! The cabbage softens and releases its natural sweetness as it cooks, adding both texture and flavor to the soup.
• Tomatoes (Crushed or Diced): Use good-quality tomatoes, as they are the base of the broth. Crushed tomatoes work best to get that smooth, velvety texture.
• Onion: A touch of sweetness and depth.
• Garlic: A fragrant addition that really enhances the savory flavor profile.
• Rice: A small amount of cooked rice is typically used in cabbage rolls, and it works similarly here, adding a bit of substance and a nice texture to the soup.
• Beef or Vegetable Broth: For the liquid base, to bring the soup together and add richness.
• Tomato Paste: For extra depth and intensity in the tomato flavor.

• Spices

  • Salt and Pepper: For basic seasoning.
  • Paprika: A smoky touch that complements the meaty filling.
  • Bay Leaves: To add an earthy, subtle complexity.
  • Dried Oregano: For a bit of Mediterranean flair.
  • Dried Dill: A quintessential seasoning that brings freshness to the soup, making it reminiscent of traditional cabbage rolls.

Cooking Instructions

The key to making a truly delicious Cabbage Roll Tomato Soup is in the layering of flavors and letting it simmer to perfection. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this dish:

1. Brown the Meat: Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the ground beef (or pork) and cook until it’s browned and fully cooked through. Use a wooden spoon to break up the meat into small crumbles as it cooks. Once browned, remove the meat from the pot and set it aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In the same pot, add a little oil (if needed) and toss in the chopped onions. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes, until the onions become soft and translucent. Add in the garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.
3. Combine Broth and Tomatoes: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let the flavors start to meld together. Stir occasionally to ensure the paste dissolves completely.
4. Add Cabbage and Rice: Toss in the cabbage and the cooked rice. Stir to combine, making sure everything is evenly distributed in the broth. Add in the bay leaves, oregano, and dill, then season with salt, pepper, and paprika.
5. Simmer: Let the soup simmer on low heat for 30-45 minutes, uncovered. The cabbage should be tender, and the soup will become rich and hearty as the rice continues to soak up the broth.
6. Finish and Adjust: Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs as needed. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot. You can pair it with a crusty bread or a dollop of sour cream for added richness.

Ingredient Insights

Let’s break down a few key ingredients to understand what makes this soup so special:

• Cabbage: Not only does cabbage add great texture, but it’s also rich in vitamins like Vitamin C and K. It also has anti-inflammatory properties, making it a perfect addition to this hearty soup.
• Ground Meat (Beef/Pork): Ground beef adds a savory richness, but you can opt for leaner options or even swap it with turkey or chicken if you want to reduce the fat content.
• Rice: Rice is the binding agent that gives the soup a bit of a ’stuffed’ feel. It soaks up the broth and adds bulk without being overwhelming.
• Tomatoes: Rich in lycopene, tomatoes are great for heart health. The acidity from the tomatoes balances the richness of the meat, making for a well-rounded dish.
• Dill and Oregano: These herbs are commonly found in traditional cabbage rolls, and they add a herby brightness that cuts through the heaviness of the meat and tomatoes.

Expert Tips

If you want to elevate your Cabbage Roll Tomato Soup, consider these pro tips:

• Brown the Meat Well: Browning the meat well before adding it to the soup enhances the flavor. The caramelization adds a rich depth to the broth.
• Use Homemade Stock: If you have time, use homemade beef or vegetable stock instead of store-bought. It will bring a richer, more complex flavor to the soup.
• Make it Ahead: Like most soups, this dish gets even better the next day. The flavors have more time to meld, and the cabbage becomes even more tender.
• Adjust the Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can add a little extra rice or even purée part of the soup to make it creamy without using dairy.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt on top of the soup before serving will add a nice tangy creaminess.

Recipe Variations

Cabbage Roll Tomato Soup is wonderfully versatile. Here are some ways you can mix things up:

• Swap the Meat: Use ground turkey, chicken, or even vegetarian crumbles for a lighter or plant-based version.
• Add Veggies: Add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or even bell peppers for extra texture and nutrition.
• Spice it Up: For a kick of heat, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. You could also add a dash of hot sauce before serving.
• Creamy Version: For a creamier version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end of cooking.
• Tomato-Free: If you’re not a fan of tomatoes, you could swap the tomato base with a hearty vegetable or beef broth for a more neutral flavor.

Final Words

This Cabbage Roll Tomato Soup is the ultimate blend of comfort, heartiness, and flavor. It’s easy to make, nourishing, and offers all the flavors of a traditional cabbage roll without the effort of rolling individual cabbage leaves. The balance of savory, sweet, and tangy is irresistible, and it’s bound to become a regular in your recipe rotation.

The beauty of this soup is that it’s flexible-feel free to experiment with different ingredients and spices to make it your own.