Introduction
Welcome to Love With Recipes, your ultimate destination for wholesome, flavorful, and easy-to-make dishes that fit perfectly into your busy lifestyle. Today, we’re diving into a hearty and nutritious soup that embodies comfort in a bowl—our Country Bean, Beef, and Cabbage Soup. This dish is designed to satisfy your hunger with a delicious combination of tender ground beef, nutrient-rich cabbage, and hearty red kidney beans, all simmered in a savory broth infused with herbs and spices. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a budget-friendly meal, or a nourishing dish that aligns with low-carb diets like the South Beach Diet, this soup is your perfect choice.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and versatility. It uses a handful of basic ingredients, most of which are pantry staples, and comes together in less than an hour. The flavors meld beautifully during simmering, resulting in a comforting, filling, and healthy bowl that can be enjoyed by the entire family. Plus, it’s an excellent option for meal prep—so you can enjoy delicious leftovers throughout the week. As a bonus, this soup is low in carbs, high in fiber, and packed with proteins and vegetables, making it a well-rounded, satisfying meal.
In this comprehensive guide, we will explore every aspect of preparing this delightful soup—from the necessary equipment and ingredient selection to detailed step-by-step instructions, preparation tips, nutritional insights, and creative variations. We aim to provide you with all the information needed to master this dish and make it your own signature comfort food. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s start cooking!
Time
Total Time: 50 minutes
Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Needed Equipment
- Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed soup pot
- Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
- Can opener (for canned tomatoes and beans)
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Chopping board
- Sharp knife
- Strainer or colander (for rinsing beans)
- Soup ladle
- Stove with adjustable heat control
- Optional: Taste spoons for seasoning adjustments
Tags
- Vegetable
- Meat
- Quick
- Easy
- Inexpensive
- Healthy
- Low-Carb
- Comfort Food
- Family-Friendly
Serving Size
This recipe yields approximately 6 cups of soup, serving about 6 people generously, with each serving being roughly 1 cup. Adjust portion sizes according to your needs, especially if serving alongside bread or salads.
Difficulty Level
This recipe is classified as easy. It requires basic cooking skills, such as chopping vegetables, browning ground beef, and simmering, making it ideal for beginner cooks or anyone looking for a straightforward, nourishing meal.
Allergen Information
- Contains: Beef, canned tomatoes (potential allergen in some formulations)
- Free from: Gluten (if using gluten-free broth and canned goods), dairy, nuts, and soy (assuming no cross-contamination)
Always check labels on canned and packaged ingredients for possible allergens or additives.
Dietary Preference
- Low-Carb / Keto-Friendly
- Paleo (if using compliant broth and tomatoes)
- South Beach Diet Phase I compliant
- Whole30 (if using Whole30-compliant broth and ingredients)
Course
Main Course / Soup
Cuisine
American / Comfort Food
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Ground beef | 1 lb (16 oz) |
| 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, rinsed) | 1 can (15 oz) |
| Dried thyme | 1 tsp |
| Black pepper | 1/8 tsp (or to taste) |
| Bay leaf | 1 leaf |
Instructions
1. Prepare the Pot and Sauté the Beef
Begin by selecting a large Dutch oven or a heavy-bottomed soup pot to ensure even heat distribution and ample space for cooking. Lightly spray the interior of the pot with a non-stick cooking spray or use a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking and facilitate browning. Preheating the pot over medium heat helps achieve a proper sear on the beef.
Once heated, add the ground beef to the pot. Use a wooden spoon or silicone spatula to break the beef apart into small crumbles. Cook the beef over medium heat, stirring frequently to ensure even browning. The goal is to cook the beef until it is fully browned, with no pink remaining, and the fat has rendered out. This process typically takes about 8-10 minutes. During cooking, the beef will release juices and fat, which should be drained or spooned out if excessive, to keep the soup from becoming greasy.
Proper browning of the beef is crucial for flavor development. It introduces a rich, savory base that permeates the entire soup. Remember to season the beef lightly with salt during cooking, but keep in mind that additional salt can be added later during the seasoning stage.
2. Incorporate Liquid and Aromatics
Once the beef is browned and excess fat has been drained, pour in the beef broth. This forms the cooking liquid that will carry the flavors and provide the necessary moisture for the vegetables and beans. Stir in the can of Italian stewed tomatoes, including their juices. The tomatoes add acidity, sweetness, and depth to the broth, balancing the richness of the beef.
Add the chopped onion to the pot, along with the dried thyme, black pepper, and bay leaf. Stir all ingredients thoroughly, ensuring the spices are evenly distributed. The dried thyme infuses the broth with a subtle earthy aroma, while the bay leaf adds a layer of complexity and depth. The chopped onion provides sweetness and texture, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Turn the heat up to high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. This initial boil helps to meld the flavors quickly and prepares the soup for simmering. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot with a lid, and allow the soup to simmer gently for about 15 minutes. This step is essential for developing a rich, flavorful broth and softening the aromatics.
3. Add Vegetables and Beans
After the initial simmering, carefully lift the lid and add the chopped cabbage and drained red kidney beans into the pot. Stir gently to combine all ingredients. The cabbage will start to wilt and soften as it cooks, imparting its mild, slightly sweet flavor. The beans, already cooked and rinsed, will warm through during the simmering process, absorbing the flavors of the broth.
Increase the heat slightly and bring the soup back to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, re-cover the pot, and simmer for an additional 20 minutes. During this time, the cabbage will become tender, and the flavors will meld into a cohesive, hearty broth. The soup will thicken slightly as the cabbage releases its juices and the ingredients combine.
4. Final Adjustments and Serving
Remove the bay leaf from the soup—this leaf is not edible and must be discarded. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Additional salt and pepper can be added to enhance the flavors, but remember that the broth and beans may already contribute some saltiness. Stir the soup well to distribute the seasoning evenly.
Using a ladle, portion the hot soup into bowls. Serve immediately, garnished with freshly chopped herbs if desired, or alongside crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. Enjoy the comforting, nutritious goodness of this classic dish!
Preparation Tips
- Choosing the beef: For a richer flavor, opt for lean ground beef with a moderate fat content. If you prefer a leaner soup, you can drain excess fat after browning.
- Vegetable prep: Always chop the cabbage uniformly to ensure even cooking. Finely chopped cabbage will soften faster, melding seamlessly into the broth.
- Bean selection: Canned red kidney beans are convenient, but dried beans can be used if soaked overnight and cooked separately beforehand.
- Herb variations: Fresh thyme or parsley can be added at the end of cooking for a bright, fresh flavor.
- Adjusting thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the cooked cabbage or beans before serving. Conversely, add more broth if you like it thinner.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving (1 cup) |
|---|---|
| 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 |
Tips and Tricks
- Flavor enhancement: Add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice before serving to brighten the flavors and counteract the richness of the beef.
- Adding spice: For a spicy kick, include a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce during simmering.
- Vegetable variations: Incorporate other vegetables such as carrots, celery, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.
- Make it vegetarian: Substitute the beef with plant-based protein crumbles or textured vegetable protein (TVP) for a vegetarian version.
Add-ons
- Crusty bread or garlic bread
- Fresh chopped herbs (parsley, cilantro, or basil)
- Grated cheese (Parmesan or cheddar)
- A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt
- Hot sauce or chili oil for extra heat
Side Dishes
- Whole grain bread or rolls
- Simple green salad with vinaigrette
- Roasted vegetables or grilled zucchini
- Pickled vegetables or relish
Improvements and Variations
- Spicy version: Add diced jalapeños or chili powder for a fiery twist.
- Vegetable boost: Incorporate spinach, kale, or other leafy greens near the end of cooking for extra nutrients.
- Flavor depth: Use smoked paprika or chipotle powder to add smoky undertones.
- Slow cooker adaptation: Brown the beef and sauté onions, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours for an even richer flavor profile.
Save and Store
Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or warm directly from frozen on the stovetop or microwave. Add a splash of broth or water during reheating if necessary to restore desired consistency.
FAQ
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, but dried beans require soaking overnight and longer cooking times. Cook the dried beans separately until tender, then add them in with the cabbage and beans step. This ensures proper texture and flavor integration.
Is this soup suitable for low-carb diets?
Absolutely. This recipe is low in carbs due to the use of beans instead of rice, and it is compatible with low-carb and ketogenic diets, especially if you choose to omit or reduce the beans.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, replace the ground beef with plant-based protein or omit the meat entirely. Use vegetable broth instead of beef broth for a fully vegetarian version. Add more vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for added flavor and texture.
How can I make this soup spicier?
Add red pepper flakes during the simmering process or include diced hot peppers like jalapeños for a spicy kick. Adjust to your preferred heat level.
Conclusion
This Country Bean, Beef, and Cabbage Soup from Love With Recipes is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can come together to create a nourishing, flavorful, and satisfying meal. Its hearty texture and rich flavors make it an ideal choice for busy weeknights, meal prep, or when you crave comfort food that doesn’t compromise on health. The flexibility of the recipe allows for countless variations, ensuring it remains a staple in your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re following a specific diet or just looking for a tasty, inexpensive, and wholesome dish, this soup checks all the boxes. Give it a try today, and enjoy a bowl of warmth and goodness that will keep you coming back for more.
References
For further reading on similar hearty soups, consider consulting “The Soup Book” by Louis P. DeGouy and “The New Healthy Eating Cookbook” by Angela Shelf Medearis, which provide a wealth of inspiration and tips for creating nutritious, flavorful soups.