Country Bean, Beef, and Cabbage Soup Recipe
Total Time: 50 minutes | Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cook Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 6 | Yield: 6 cups
Category: Beans | Keywords: Vegetable, Meat, Quick, Easy, Inexpensive
Description:
If you’re searching for a hearty, flavorful, and healthy soup that can fit easily into your busy week, this Country Bean, Beef, and Cabbage Soup is a must-try! This dish, which is similar to a stuffed cabbage soup but with beans instead of rice, is a satisfying low-carb option that can be enjoyed during Phase I of the South Beach Diet. The combination of tender ground beef, nutrient-packed cabbage, and hearty red kidney beans creates a comforting, filling soup that is sure to satisfy your hunger without sacrificing flavor. Even if you’re not following a specific diet, this is a delicious and nutritious meal that can be enjoyed by anyone looking for a quick and easy dinner.
With just a handful of simple ingredients, this soup comes together quickly and is perfect for busy nights when you need a wholesome meal in under an hour. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or for a family, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser that everyone will love!
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 lb |
| Beef broth | 2 cups |
| Italian stewed tomatoes | 1 can (14.5 oz) |
| Onion, chopped | 1 medium |
| Cabbage, chopped | 4 cups |
| Red kidney beans (canned, drained and rinsed) | 1 can (15 oz) |
| Dried thyme | 1 tsp |
| Black pepper | 1/8 tsp |
| Bay leaf | 1 leaf |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 303.1 kcal |
| Fat | 12.2 g |
| Saturated Fat | 4.7 g |
| Cholesterol | 51.4 mg |
| Sodium | 751.6 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 25.7 g |
| Fiber | 7.6 g |
| Sugars | 5.3 g |
| Protein | 23.4 g |
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Pot:
Begin by spraying the inside of a large Dutch oven or soup pot with non-stick cooking spray. This will help prevent the beef from sticking to the pot during cooking. -
Cook the Ground Beef:
Place the ground beef in the pot and cook it over medium heat. Stir frequently, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until the beef is fully cooked through and no longer pink. The beef should be crumbly and browned. Once cooked, drain any excess fat if necessary. -
Add the Liquid and Seasonings:
Next, pour in the beef broth, and add the can of Italian stewed tomatoes, including the juices. Stir in the chopped onion, dried thyme, black pepper, and bay leaf. Mix everything together, ensuring the flavors are well distributed. -
Bring to a Boil:
Turn the heat up to high and bring the soup to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat slightly, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. -
Add the Cabbage and Beans:
After 15 minutes, add the chopped cabbage and red kidney beans to the pot. Stir everything together, and bring the soup back to a boil. The cabbage will begin to soften and cook down as it heats up. -
Simmer the Soup:
Once the soup is boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot again, and let it simmer for an additional 20 minutes. This will allow the cabbage to become tender and the beans to warm through. The flavors will continue to develop, and the soup will thicken slightly. -
Finish and Serve:
Before serving, remember to remove the bay leaf from the soup. Give the soup one final stir, taste for seasoning, and adjust with salt and pepper if desired. Then ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.
Tips for Success:
- Substitute the Beans: Feel free to experiment with different types of beans in this recipe. White beans or black beans would work well as a substitute for red kidney beans if you prefer.
- Make It a One-Pot Meal: This soup is already a complete meal, but you can add a side of whole-grain bread or a simple green salad to round it out.
- Leftovers: This soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It’s even better the next day when the flavors have had more time to develop. Just reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Why You’ll Love This Soup:
- Simple and Quick: With only 5 minutes of prep time, this recipe is incredibly quick to get on the table. In under an hour, you’ll have a hearty, healthy meal ready to enjoy.
- Low-Carb and Diet-Friendly: Perfect for those following the South Beach Diet or anyone looking to reduce their carb intake, this soup replaces traditional rice with fiber-rich beans, making it a great option for a balanced meal.
- Packed with Nutrients: With a generous amount of protein, fiber, and vegetables, this soup provides a well-rounded nutritional profile. It’s an easy way to eat well without spending hours in the kitchen.
- Family-Friendly: This soup is a hit with both adults and kids alike. Its rich, savory flavor and comforting texture will appeal to even the pickiest eaters.
This Country Bean, Beef, and Cabbage Soup is not only a perfect weeknight meal but also a great choice for meal prep. It’s simple, nutritious, and full of flavor, making it a winner in any household. Give it a try, and you’ll see why it’s such a favorite!
