Savory Slow-Cooked Cabbage Beef Delight
This hearty Savory Slow-Cooked Cabbage Beef Delight is a timeless favorite in my family, perfect for any season. The rich, tomato-based broth is complemented by tender chunks of beef and an abundance of vibrant vegetables. The blend of garlic, Worcestershire sauce, and subtle sweetness from brown sugar elevates the flavor profile, ensuring each spoonful is packed with warmth and nourishment. Ideal for busy schedules, simply prepare your ingredients, set the crock pot, and let it work its magic while you go about your day. Enjoy a bowl with crusty artisan bread or a side of crunchy crackers for a comforting meal.
5
Servings
70
Calories
13
Ingredients
Ingredients
lean ground beef
1/2 lb (browned and drained)
vegetable oil
1 tablespoon (for browning beef)
onion
1 (chopped)
carrots
2 (chopped)
celery ribs
2 (chopped)
garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon (none)
brown sugar
1 teaspoon (none)
Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon (none)
tomato sauce
1 (14 ounce) (none)
diced tomatoes
2 (14 ounce) (diced)
cabbage
1/2 head (chopped)
salt
to taste (none)
pepper
to taste (none)
Instructions
1
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and set aside.
2
Prepare the crock pot by placing the chopped onion, carrots, and celery at the bottom. Follow with the garlic powder, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, and chopped cabbage.
3
Add the browned ground beef to the mixture in the crock pot, stirring gently to combine all ingredients.
4
Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste, mixing well.
5
Cover the crock pot and set it to low heat. Allow it to cook for 6 to 7 hours, stirring occasionally if possible.
6
Once cooked, serve the soup hot, and garnish with your choice of fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy!
Nutrition Information
3.6g
Fat
8g
Carbs
4g
Protein
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Slow-Cooked Cabbage Beef Delight?
It is a hearty and comforting soup made with ground beef, fresh cabbage, carrots, and celery in a savory tomato-based broth.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe yields approximately 5 servings.
How long does it take to cook in the slow cooker?
The soup should be cooked on low heat for 6 to 7 hours.
Do I need to brown the beef before adding it to the crock pot?
Yes, you should brown the ground beef in a skillet and drain the excess fat before adding it to the slow cooker for the best texture and flavor.
What side dishes go well with this soup?
It pairs perfectly with crusty artisan bread or a side of crunchy crackers.
Can I substitute the ground beef with another meat?
Yes, you can use ground turkey or ground chicken as a leaner alternative to ground beef.
Is this recipe easy for beginners?
Yes, it is very simple; once the beef is browned, you just combine the ingredients and let the slow cooker do the work.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days.
Can this cabbage beef soup be frozen?
Yes, this soup freezes well in airtight containers for up to 3 months.
What type of cabbage is recommended?
Green cabbage is standard for this recipe, though savoy cabbage is also a great option.
Why is brown sugar used in the recipe?
The brown sugar provides a subtle sweetness that balances the acidity of the tomato sauce and diced tomatoes.
Can I add more vegetables to the mix?
Absolutely; bell peppers, green beans, or even diced potatoes would make a great addition.
Is this recipe dairy-free?
Yes, this recipe contains no dairy products.
Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
Yes, you can replace the garlic powder with 1 to 2 cloves of minced fresh garlic.
What is the calorie count per serving?
According to the recipe data, there are approximately 70 calories per serving.
Can I skip the Worcestershire sauce?
You can, but it adds a savory depth that enhances the beef flavor in the broth.
Is it necessary to stir the soup during cooking?
While not strictly necessary, stirring occasionally helps ensure even cooking and distribution of flavors.
Can I cook this recipe on high heat?
Yes, you can cook it on high for 3 to 4 hours, though low heat is preferred for tenderizing the vegetables.
How do I reheat the leftovers?
You can reheat the soup in a saucepan over medium heat or in the microwave until it is hot.
What herbs make a good garnish?
Fresh parsley, thyme, or chopped chives are excellent choices for garnishing.
Can I make this on a stovetop?
Yes, after browning the meat, combine all ingredients in a large pot and simmer over low heat for 45 to 60 minutes.
Is this soup gluten-free?
It can be, provided you ensure your Worcestershire sauce and canned tomato products are certified gluten-free.
Can I use fire-roasted tomatoes?
Yes, fire-roasted tomatoes will add a nice smoky element to the flavor profile.
What if I do not have celery?
You can simply omit the celery or replace it with extra carrots or chopped onions.
Can I double the recipe?
Yes, the recipe can be doubled as long as your slow cooker has enough capacity.
How do I keep the cabbage from getting too soft?
Cooking on low for the recommended 6 to 7 hours keeps the cabbage tender without it becoming overly mushy.
Is lean ground beef necessary?
Lean beef is recommended to keep the soup from being too greasy, but any ground beef works if drained well after browning.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, but you may need to add a splash of water or beef broth to match the liquid content of the canned version.
Is this a good meal prep recipe?
Yes, you can prep the vegetables and brown the beef a day in advance to save time.
How can I make the soup spicy?
You can add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the mixture before cooking.