For the Rice:
1/2 cup uncooked white or brown rice (or 1 cup cooked rice)
Optional Garnishes:
Chopped fresh parsley or dill
A dollop of sour cream
Crusty bread for serving
How to Make Hearty Cabbage Roll Soup
Step 1: Brown the Meat
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add the ground beef or turkey and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles. Drain any excess grease.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté for 3–5 minutes until softened.
Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Soup
Add the chopped cabbage, carrots, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, broth, Worcestershire sauce, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes.
Step 4: Add the Rice
Stir in the uncooked rice and simmer for an additional 20–25 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
If using cooked rice, add it during the last 5 minutes to heat through.
Step 5: Taste and Adjust
Remove the soup from heat and taste. Adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if needed.
Step 6: Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or dill.
Serve with a dollop of sour cream and crusty bread for a complete meal.
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