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Healthy Cabbage Ground Beef Soup

Hearty blend of cabbage, ground beef, and aromatics. Savory and filling for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 450 g ground beef (80/20 for robust flavor)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or unsalted butter
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
  • 0.5 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cups chopped green cabbage (approximately ½ medium head)
  • 400 g canned diced tomatoes, no sugar added
  • 950 ml beef broth, or bone broth for enhanced nutrition
  • 240 ml water, adjust amount for preferred consistency
  • 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
  • 0.5 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 0.5 teaspoon thyme
  • 0.5 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)
  • 0.5 cup chopped celery or zucchini for extra texture
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste for intensified tomato flavor
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar to brighten the dish

Instructions

  1. Preheat a large pot over medium heat and add olive oil or butter. Add ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and sauté until thoroughly browned. Incorporate garlic and onion, stirring continuously until aromatic, about 2 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  2. Add chopped cabbage, canned diced tomatoes, beef broth, and water to the pot. Stir in paprika, oregano, thyme, salt, pepper, and optional smoked paprika and red pepper flakes. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then lower heat and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes or until cabbage is meltingly tender.
  3. Evaluate seasoning and balance. Adjust salt, pepper, or acidity with apple cider vinegar to achieve a rich, slightly tangy flavor profile.
  4. Ladle hot soup into bowls. For enhanced richness, finish each serving with grated Parmesan or an extra drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Notes

For a lower fat content, drain excess grease thoroughly after browning the beef. Incorporate additional vegetables like celery or zucchini for increased fibre and nutrients.

Nutrition