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–+ servings
Hearty Cabbage Meatball Soup for Winter

Hearty Cabbage Meatball Soup for Winter

This Hearty Cabbage Meatball Soup for Winter is a comforting dish perfect for cold nights, featuring tender meatballs and fresh vegetables.
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Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 15 minutes
Servings: 6 bowls
Course: Cozy Dinners
Cuisine: Comfort Food
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Meatballs
  • 500 grams Ground beef or pork the foundation for delicious, tender meatballs infused with flavor.
  • 80 grams Ripe tomato adds moisture and a subtle sweetness to the meat mixture.
  • 1 Egg yolk acts as a binder, ensuring your meatballs hold their shape while cooking.
  • 1 Garlic clove minced for aromatic depth and a hint of warmth.
  • 50 grams Onion finely chopped, it brings sweetness to the dish.
  • 50 grams Short-grain rice provides a comforting texture and absorbs the rich flavors.
  • 1.5 tablespoons Parsley a fresh touch that brightens up the meatballs.
  • 1.5 tablespoons Dill adds a unique, herbaceous lift to the flavor profile.
  • 0.67 teaspoon Mint a surprising addition that enhances the freshness.
  • 1 teaspoon Sweet paprika lends a subtle sweetness and vibrant color.
  • 0.5 teaspoon Thyme an earthy herb that complements the meat beautifully.
  • 0.67 teaspoon Salt essential for bringing all the flavors together.
  • 0.33 teaspoon Ground pepper adds a hint of spice without overwhelming.
Soup Base
  • 10 tablespoons Extra virgin olive oil the key to rich flavor and a luscious texture.
  • 450 grams Ripe tomatoes the base of your savory broth, blending beautifully with spices.
  • 2 Garlic cloves enhances the broth with robust, aromatic layers.
  • 2 teaspoons Tomato paste intensifies the tomato flavor, making the soup more robust.
  • 10 tablespoons Tomato sauce adds depth to your soup's base.
  • 8 cups Hot water or stock for a flavorful liquid that carries all the ingredients' goodness.
  • 1 Bay leaf imparts a subtle, herbal note to the soup.
Vegetables
  • 100 grams Green bell pepper adds crunch and a mild sweetness.
  • 70 grams Celery stalks boosts the flavor of the soup and provides a nice texture.
  • 450 grams White cabbage the star ingredient, lending its sweetness and charm to the dish.
  • 100 grams Short-grain rice to give the soup an extra hearty touch.
  • 2 tablespoons Parsley freshens up the final dish with vibrant color.
  • 1.5 tablespoons Dill repeats the fresh herb vibe for added flavor.
  • 6 tablespoons Lemon juice a zesty finish that brightens the entire flavor profile.
  • Extra lemon for serving; adds a bright touch to each bowl, perfectly complementing the soup.

Equipment

  • mixing bowl
  • large pot

Method
 

Preparation Steps
  1. In a mixing bowl, combine ground beef or pork, ripe tomato, egg yolk, minced garlic, onion, short-grain rice, herbs, and spices. Mix well until everything is integrated and you can form meatballs.
  2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the meatballs and sauté until they're browned on all sides, about 8-10 minutes. Remove them and set aside for later.
  3. In the same pot, add more olive oil if needed. Sauté chopped ripe tomatoes, minced garlic, tomato paste, and tomato sauce for about 5-7 minutes until fragrant and mixed well.
  4. Pour in hot water or stock and add the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, letting the flavors meld for about 5 minutes.
  5. Stir in diced green bell pepper, chopped celery, shredded cabbage, and rinsed short-grain rice into the pot. Allow this to cook for another 10 minutes, focusing on the vibrant colors and textures.
  6. Return the golden-brown meatballs to the pot. Cover and simmer until the rice is cooked through and the vegetables are tender, around 15-20 minutes.
  7. Stir in chopped parsley, dill, and lemon juice right before serving. This brightens up the flavors beautifully.
  8. Ladle the soup into bowls and offer extra lemon on the side to enhance the flavors even more. Enjoy this comforting dish with your loved ones!

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 20gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 6gCholesterol: 60mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 5gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 30mgCalcium: 50mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Consider serving with crusty bread for dipping and extra warmth! This soup is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the fridge or freezer for later use.

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