Cabbage Soup Beef Broth Recipe

Cabbage Soup Beef Broth is a timeless comfort food that brings together hearty, earthy flavors in a warming, nutritious dish. This soup is not just filling but also incredibly versatile, easily customizable to cater to various tastes. The combination of tender cabbage, rich beef broth, and other complementary vegetables makes this soup a perfect choice for everything from a weeknight dinner to a nutritious lunch or even a detoxifying meal when you’re looking for something light but satisfying.

It’s also incredibly simple to make, requiring only a handful of ingredients, yet it packs in a depth of flavor that will make you want to revisit it time and again. Whether you’re looking to fuel your body with something nourishing or just need a soul-soothing bowl of soup on a cold day, this recipe checks all the boxes.

So, let’s dive into this easy-to-follow yet flavorful recipe that brings warmth and satisfaction to your kitchen.

Cabbage Soup Beef Broth Recipe

This cabbage soup, simmered in a rich beef broth, offers a savory, satisfying flavor profile with every spoonful. It’s perfect for those who love the comfort of a homemade meal, the flexibility to adjust ingredients, and the knowledge that they’re nourishing their bodies with wholesome, simple ingredients. Whether you’re on a detox, trying to lose weight, or simply want something warm and cozy, this cabbage soup will be your go-to!

Ingredients Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to create this hearty soup that will have everyone coming back for more. These ingredients are not only tasty but also packed with nutrients.

• 1 medium head of cabbage – The star of the show! Cabbage adds fiber and a subtle sweetness when cooked, transforming into a tender, comforting texture as it simmers in the broth.
• 1 lb of beef stew meat – For richness and depth, beef stew meat gives this soup a satisfying and filling base. The meat can be substituted with ground beef or any other cut of beef you prefer.
• 6 cups of beef broth – Beef broth is essential for creating a hearty, flavorful base. It pairs wonderfully with the cabbage, adding a robust savory flavor.
• 1 large onion, chopped – Onions bring a slightly sweet yet savory base flavor to the soup. The caramelization of onions as they cook in the broth adds to the overall richness.
• 2 carrots, sliced – These add sweetness and color to the soup while offering a nice contrast to the savory flavors.
• 2 celery stalks, chopped – Celery contributes a fresh, crisp texture and a light, peppery flavor that balances out the richness of the beef broth.
• 2 garlic cloves, minced – Garlic adds a punch of aromatic flavor that elevates the overall taste.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – Tomatoes offer a hint of acidity and brightness that cuts through the richness of the beef broth, providing a well-rounded flavor profile.
• 2 bay leaves – Bay leaves infuse the soup with subtle earthy and aromatic undertones, enhancing the overall flavor.
• 1 teaspoon thyme – Thyme complements the beef and cabbage with its earthy, herbal notes, tying everything together.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t forget to season the soup! Salt enhances the flavors of all the ingredients, while pepper adds a little kick to the dish.

Cooking Instructions

Let’s break down the step-by-step process to ensure you get the most out of your cabbage soup.

1. Brown The Beef

   • Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the beef stew meat and cook until it’s browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. This step creates a great foundation for your broth, as the seared meat will release rich flavors into the soup.

2. Sauté The Vegetables

   • Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook them, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes or until they begin to soften and the onion becomes translucent.

3. Add Garlic And Spices

   • Stir in the minced garlic, thyme, and bay leaves. Cook for another minute until fragrant. This step releases the aroma of the herbs and garlic, giving your soup a delicious fragrance.

4. Add Tomatoes And Broth

   • Pour in the diced tomatoes, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot (these add tons of flavor). Then, add the beef broth and stir to combine.

5. Simmer

   • Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 45 minutes to an hour. This allows the beef to tenderize, and the flavors to meld together.

6. Add The Cabbage

   • Add the cabbage to the pot, stirring it into the soup. Let it simmer for an additional 15-20 minutes, until the cabbage is tender but still maintains some structure.

7. Season And Serve

   • Season with salt and pepper to taste, and then serve hot. If you like, top it with some fresh parsley or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor and richness.

Ingredient Insights

• Cabbage: Rich in fiber, vitamins C and K, and antioxidants, cabbage is not only a great way to fill you up but also offers health benefits such as improving digestion and providing anti-inflammatory properties.
• Beef Broth: The beef broth is full of nutrients like collagen, which supports joint and skin health. It also brings an irresistible depth of flavor that’s hard to beat in soups.
• Carrots and Celery: These vegetables add sweetness, crunch, and vibrant color to the soup. They’re also high in vitamins A and C and contribute to the soup’s overall nutritional value.
• Garlic and Thyme: Both of these ingredients have long been used for their medicinal properties-garlic being great for immunity and heart health, while thyme is known for its antibacterial properties.

Expert Tips

• For a richer flavor: Before adding the beef broth, deglaze the pan with a splash of red wine or Worcestershire sauce. This adds complexity and depth to the broth, making it even more savory.
• Beef Selection: If you want extra tender meat, consider using a chuck roast, which becomes wonderfully tender when slow-cooked. You can also use pre-cooked beef for a quicker preparation.
• Cabbage Texture: If you prefer your cabbage to retain a bit more bite, reduce the cooking time after adding it to the soup. On the other hand, for a soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture, let it cook for longer.
• Frozen Soup: This soup freezes exceptionally well! Just let it cool completely, transfer it into airtight containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, simply thaw and reheat on the stove.
• Spices: Play around with other spices, such as paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper, to customize the heat and flavor.

Recipe Variations

This cabbage soup can easily be adjusted to suit different tastes or dietary needs. Here are a few variations you can try:

• Vegetarian Version: Swap out the beef for plant-based protein like lentils, tofu, or tempeh. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth, and you’ve got a delicious vegetarian alternative.
• Spicy Cabbage Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to give the soup a spicy kick.
• Asian-Inspired: Incorporate soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil into the broth for an Asian twist. Add mushrooms or bok choy for an even more authentic feel.
• Low-Carb/Keto Version: Skip the carrots and celery, and load up on leafy greens like spinach or kale for a lower-carb, nutrient-dense option.

Final Words

This cabbage soup with beef broth is the ultimate example of a simple meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Whether you’re making it for a hearty family dinner or as a meal prep option for the week, it’s easy to adapt and customize to your preferences. The balance between the savory beef, the tender cabbage, and the aromatic broth creates a flavor-packed dish that satisfies the soul.