Introduction
Cabbage Soup with Hamburger is a hearty and comforting dish that combines the earthy flavors of cabbage with the savory goodness of ground beef. This recipe is perfect for chilly days when you crave something warm and filling to nourish your body and soul. The simplicity of this dish makes it a popular choice for busy weeknights or lazy weekends when you want a satisfying meal without the hassle of extensive preparation.
History of the Dish
The origins of Cabbage Soup with Hamburger can be traced back to traditional European cuisine, where cabbage has been a staple ingredient for centuries. Over time, this dish has evolved into a beloved comfort food in many households, loved for its simplicity and versatility. The addition of hamburger adds a protein-rich element to the soup, making it a well-rounded meal that satisfies both taste and hunger.
Health Benefits
Cabbage is a nutrient-dense vegetable that is low in calories but high in vitamins, minerals, and fiber. It is known for its anti-inflammatory properties and ability to support digestion and heart health. When combined with lean ground beef, this soup becomes a wholesome dish that provides a good balance of protein, carbohydrates, and essential nutrients. By incorporating this dish into your meal rotation, you can enjoy a delicious and nourishing option that promotes overall well-being.
What Tools You’ll Need
Basic Kitchen Tools
– Large soup pot
– Wooden spoon
– Cutting board
– Sharp knife
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Ladle
– Cooking spoon
– Stovetop
To make cabbage soup with hamburger, ensure you have essential kitchen tools readily available. A large soup pot is crucial for cooking the soup. A wooden spoon will come in handy for stirring the ingredients. A cutting board and a sharp knife are necessary for chopping vegetables and meat. Measuring cups and spoons are vital for accurate ingredient quantities. A ladle will help you serve the soup, while a cooking spoon is needed for stirring. Lastly, a stovetop is essential for cooking the soup to perfection.
Additional Tools for Efficiency
– Skillet
– Colander
– Paper towels
– Tongs
For increased efficiency in preparing cabbage soup with hamburger, consider using a skillet to brown the hamburger before adding it to the soup. A colander comes in handy for draining excess fat from the browned meat. Keep paper towels nearby for easy cleanup. Tongs can be useful for handling hot ingredients safely. These additional tools will streamline the cooking process and make meal preparation more manageable.
Ingredients with Detailed Measurements
Main Ingredients
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 6 cups beef broth
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
– 1 small head cabbage, chopped
– 3 carrots, sliced
– 3 celery stalks, chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Seasonings and Garnishes
– 2 bay leaves
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– Sour cream or grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
To create this hearty Cabbage Soup with Hamburger, gather 1 pound of ground beef, an onion, and garlic. In addition, you will need beef broth, diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, cabbage, carrots, and celery. Seasonings such as dried oregano, basil, bay leaves, and red pepper flakes can enhance the flavor. Don’t forget salt and pepper for seasoning. Garnish your soup with fresh parsley and serve it with sour cream or grated Parmesan cheese.
Instructions
To make a delicious Cabbage Soup with Hamburger, follow these simple steps:
Preparing the Ingredients
– Gather 1 pound of ground beef, 1 onion (chopped), 3 cloves of garlic (minced), 1 head of cabbage (chopped), 2 carrots (sliced), 2 celery stalks (chopped), 1 can of diced tomatoes, 6 cups of beef broth, and seasonings like salt, pepper, and paprika.
– In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium heat, breaking it into crumbles as it cooks. Once browned, remove excess fat.
– Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot with the beef, sautéing until softened.
– Mix in the cabbage, carrots, and celery, cooking until the vegetables begin to soften.
– Pour in the diced tomatoes and beef broth, then season the soup with salt, pepper, and paprika to taste.
Cooking the Soup
– Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
– Once the vegetables are tender, the Cabbage Soup with Hamburger is ready to be served hot. Enjoy this hearty and comforting dish with your favorite crusty bread.
Nutrition Score
Understanding the nutritional value of cabbage soup with hamburger can help you make informed decisions about your diet and overall health.
Nutrient Composition
Cabbage soup with hamburger is a nutrient-dense dish that offers a variety of essential vitamins and minerals. Cabbage is rich in vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber, which support immune function and digestion. The addition of lean hamburger provides high-quality protein, iron, and B vitamins necessary for energy production and muscle health.
- Cabbage: High in vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber
- Hamburger: Good source of protein, iron, and B vitamins
- Overall, this dish offers a balanced combination of nutrients that contribute to overall well-being.
Caloric Content and Macronutrients
One serving of cabbage soup with hamburger typically contains a moderate number of calories, making it a filling option for a meal.
- Calories: The dish provides a reasonable caloric content suitable for a balanced diet.
- Protein: The inclusion of hamburger ensures an adequate protein intake, crucial for muscle maintenance and repair.
- Fat: Depending on the meat’s leanness, the fat content can vary, but it can be managed by choosing lean cuts of hamburger.
- Carbohydrates: With cabbage as the main ingredient, carbohydrates are mainly derived from vegetables, offering a good source of energy and fiber.
Overall, cabbage soup with hamburger is a nutritionally well-rounded dish that can be enjoyed as part of a healthy diet when prepared with attention to portion sizes and ingredient quality.
Serving & Storage
To enjoy the delicious flavors of Cabbage Soup with Hamburger to the fullest, follow these serving and storage tips:
Serving Suggestions
– Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or dill for a pop of color and added freshness.
– Pair the soup with some crusty bread or dinner rolls for a satisfying meal.
– For an extra burst of flavor, top each serving with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.
– Serve the soup alongside a crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the dish.
Storage Instructions
– Allow any leftover soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
– Refrigerate the soup promptly and consume it within 3-4 days to ensure freshness and taste.
– Consider freezing individual portions of the soup in freezer-safe containers for longer storage. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
– Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Variations
Meat Options
– Instead of using ground hamburger, try substituting it with ground turkey, ground chicken, or even vegetarian crumbles for a different twist on the classic cabbage soup.
– For those wanting a heartier option, diced sausages such as kielbasa or chorizo can be added to the soup for extra flavor.
Flavor Enhancements
– To add a spicy kick, incorporate a teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the soup.
– For an herby flavor, mix in some chopped fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary towards the end of the cooking process.
FAQs with Most Commonly Asked Questions
1. How to Store Cabbage Soup with Hamburger?
– After cooking, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
– Store the soup in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to 2-3 months.
2. Can I Adjust the Seasonings in Cabbage Soup with Hamburger?
– Yes, you can easily adjust the seasonings in the soup to suit your taste preferences.
– Taste the soup before serving and add more salt, pepper, herbs, or spices as needed.
When preparing cabbage soup with hamburger, a few questions commonly arise among cooks. Here are some of the top FAQs:
– How long does it take to cook cabbage soup with hamburger?
– Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian or vegan by omitting the hamburger?
– Can I use ground turkey or chicken instead of hamburger in this recipe?
– What are some suitable side dishes to serve with cabbage soup with hamburger?
Conclusion
Overall, this Cabbage Soup with Hamburger recipe offers a hearty and satisfying meal that is both flavorful and nutritious. The combination of cabbage, vegetables, and savory hamburger creates a comforting dish perfect for any occasion. Here are some key takeaways from this recipe:
Health Benefits
By incorporating cabbage into this soup, you are adding a vegetable that is rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Cabbage is known for its anti-inflammatory properties, digestive benefits, and potential to boost heart health. Additionally, the lean ground hamburger provides a good source of protein, essential for muscle repair and growth.
Versatility and Convenience
This Cabbage Soup with Hamburger is a versatile recipe that can be easily customized to suit your preferences. You can experiment with different seasonings, vegetables, or meat variations to create a personalized version of this dish. Moreover, this soup can be prepared in large batches and stored for later consumption, making it a convenient option for meal prepping or feeding a crowd.
In conclusion, this Cabbage Soup with Hamburger is a delicious and nourishing meal that is sure to become a favorite among your family and friends. Enjoy the comfort and warmth of this satisfying soup with every savory spoonful!