If you’re craving a comforting bowl of hearty, flavorful soup that truly captures the spirit of traditional Polish cooking, you’re in for a treat. This Polish Stuffed Cabbage Soup Recipe brings all the cozy, satisfying elements of classic stuffed cabbage rolls into a warm, spoonable delight. Tender cabbage, savory ground beef, tangy tomato, and an aromatic blend of spices come together in a rich broth that’s both nourishing and irresistibly delicious. It’s the kind of soup that feels like a big, inviting hug on a chilly day, and once you try it, you’ll be hooked.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering the right ingredients is half the joy in making this dish! Each component plays a special role in building layers of flavor and texture—from the tender cabbage to the hearty beef and the pop of acidity in the tomatoes. These simple staples come together to create a soup that’s both satisfying and soul-warming.
- 1 lb ground beef: Provides rich, meaty flavor and satisfying protein.
- 1 small onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Brings a fragrant warmth that ties the dish together.
- ½ head green cabbage, chopped: Offers tender texture and mild earthiness.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes: Adds brightness and a touch of acidity.
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce: Creates a smooth, flavorful base for the soup.
- 6 cups beef broth: Infuses the soup with a savory, hearty foundation.
- ½ cup uncooked white rice: Thickens the soup and adds comforting substance.
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce: Introduces a tangy, umami punch.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Delivers a subtle smoky warmth.
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme: Offers a gentle herbal note that brightens the broth.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing flavors perfectly.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Used for sautéing ingredients and adds smooth richness.
How to Make Polish Stuffed Cabbage Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté Aromatics and Brown the Beef
Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 3 to 4 minutes until they become soft and fragrant—the aroma at this stage really sets the mood for the whole dish. Next, add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks, until it’s fully browned. If any excess fat accumulates, carefully drain it to avoid greasiness and keep the soup balanced and light.
Step 2: Add the Cabbage
Throw in the chopped cabbage to the pot and cook everything together for an additional 5 minutes. This gently softens the cabbage, helping it meld beautifully with the meat and aromatics, while still maintaining a pleasant texture that will make every bite satisfying.
Step 3: Combine Tomatoes, Broth, and Seasonings
Now it’s time to bring the soup to life by adding the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Stir in the uncooked rice, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, thyme, and don’t forget to season generously with salt and pepper. Mix everything well so all those wonderful flavors have a chance to mingle and develop in the pot.
Step 4: Simmer Until Tender
Bring your mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let the soup cook for 30 to 35 minutes, allowing the cabbage to become tender and the rice to fully cook through, thickening the soup slightly. This slow simmering is where all the flavors deepen and marry beautifully.
Step 5: Final Taste and Serve
Before serving, give your soup a good taste test and adjust the seasoning to your preference with extra salt or pepper if needed. Ladle the soup into warm bowls, and get ready to enjoy a bowlful of comfort that feels like a homemade hug.
How to Serve Polish Stuffed Cabbage Soup Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your Polish Stuffed Cabbage Soup Recipe, consider topping each bowl with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley. These additions bring creaminess and a fresh, vibrant touch that complement the rich flavors perfectly.
Side Dishes
This soup is excellent when paired with crusty bread or warm dinner rolls, perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop. You might also serve a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the heartiness of the soup.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for an inviting, rustic presentation. You can also garnish with a sprinkle of crispy bacon bits or a handful of shredded cheddar cheese to add extra texture and flavor layers. Your guests will love how personal and special this traditional soup feels.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Polish Stuffed Cabbage Soup Recipe keeps very well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve its full flavors and comforting textures, ready for a quick and satisfying meal whenever you want.
Freezing
This soup freezes beautifully, making it an excellent option for meal prep. Simply cool it completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months without losing the integrity of its flavors or texture.
Reheating
When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge if frozen. Reheat gently on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent any sticking and to bring everything back to that perfect comforting warmth.
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey instead of ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a leaner option and works well in this soup. Keep in mind it has a milder flavor, so you might want to adjust seasonings slightly to maintain the richness.
Is it necessary to use uncooked rice in this recipe?
Yes. Adding uncooked rice allows it to cook directly in the soup, soaking up the delicious broth and thickening the texture naturally. Pre-cooked rice might get mushy if simmered too long.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Definitely! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or lentils and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth. The cabbage and spices still provide fantastic flavor and heartiness.
How spicy is this Polish Stuffed Cabbage Soup Recipe?
This recipe is traditionally mild, focusing on savory and slightly smoky flavors rather than heat. You can easily add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper if you prefer some kick.
What can I serve with this soup for a full meal?
This soup is quite filling on its own, but for a complete meal, consider pairing it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables and some crusty bread on the side.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you give this Polish Stuffed Cabbage Soup Recipe a try. It’s one of those dishes that not only warms the body but also brings a sense of comfort and tradition to your table. Simple to make yet deeply satisfying, this soup is perfect for sharing with family and friends on a cozy evening. Once you taste it, I’m sure it will become a beloved staple in your recipe collection!
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Polish Stuffed Cabbage Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Polish
Description
This hearty Polish Stuffed Cabbage Soup features ground beef, tender cabbage, tomatoes, and rice simmered together in a flavorful broth with aromatic herbs and spices. Inspired by traditional stuffed cabbage rolls, this comforting soup offers a delicious twist that’s perfect for cozy dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ head green cabbage, chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
- 6 cups beef broth
- ½ cup uncooked white rice
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare the aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, then sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Cook the beef: Add the ground beef to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary to keep the soup from being greasy.
- Soften the cabbage: Stir in the chopped cabbage and cook for about 5 minutes, allowing it to soften slightly and blend with the flavors.
- Add liquids and seasonings: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice, tomato sauce, and beef broth. Add uncooked white rice, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir everything thoroughly to combine.
- Simmer the soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer gently for 30-35 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the rice is fully cooked.
- Adjust and serve: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, optionally alongside crusty bread for a complete meal.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red chili flakes or cayenne pepper.
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- To make this soup gluten-free, ensure Worcestershire sauce used is gluten-free.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated easily.
- Adding a splash of vinegar or lemon juice at the end brightens the flavors beautifully.
