Cabbage Soup with Hamburger

Step 1: Cook the Ground Beef

1. Brown the Beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the ground beef over medium heat until it’s browned and fully cooked. Break it up into small pieces as it cooks.
2. Drain Excess Fat: If necessary, drain any excess fat from the pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Add Onions and Garlic: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot with the cooked beef. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Soup

1. Add the Vegetables: Stir in the chopped cabbage, sliced carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the vegetables to begin to soften.
2. Add Liquids and Seasonings: Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice), tomato sauce, beef broth, and water. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. If using, add the bay leaf.

Step 4: Simmer the Soup

1. Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a boil.
2. Reduce and Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the cabbage and other vegetables are tender.

Step 5: Serve

1. Taste and Adjust: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
2. Garnish and Serve: Remove the bay leaf if used. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Conclusion

Cabbage Soup with Hamburger is a wonderfully cozy meal that is both filling and nutritious. The combination of ground beef, cabbage, and vegetables in a flavorful broth makes for a satisfying soup that can be enjoyed on its own or with a slice of crusty bread. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to customize it with your favorite herbs and spices or even additional veggies. Enjoy it fresh off the stove or save some for later—it only gets better with time!