Description
Warm, comforting, and full of flavor, this Sweet and Sour Beef and Cabbage Soup is a hearty twist on a classic Eastern European favorite. It combines ground beef, tender cabbage, and rich tomato broth with a perfect balance of sweetness and tang. Simple to make and budget-friendly, it’s an ideal one-pot meal for cold nights or make-ahead lunches.
Ingredients
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1 lb (450g) ground beef
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1 small onion, diced
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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4 cups chopped green cabbage
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1 large carrot, peeled and grated or sliced
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1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
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1/4 cup tomato paste
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6 cups beef broth
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2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or white vinegar)
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2 tbsp brown sugar (adjust to taste)
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1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
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Salt and pepper, to taste
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Olive oil for cooking
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Optional: 1/2 tsp caraway seeds or bay leaf for added depth
Instructions
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Brown the Beef:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if needed. -
Sauté Aromatics:
Add diced onion and cook until softened, about 3–4 minutes. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds more. -
Add Vegetables and Tomatoes:
Mix in the cabbage and carrots. Stir to combine, then add diced tomatoes, tomato paste, and beef broth. Bring to a boil. -
Flavor the Broth:
Stir in vinegar, brown sugar, paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. If you’re using bay leaf or caraway seeds, add them now. -
Simmer:
Reduce heat to low and let the soup simmer for 25–30 minutes, until the cabbage is tender and flavors are well blended. Adjust seasoning to taste.
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Serve:
Ladle into bowls and serve hot, optionally with crusty bread or a dollop of sour cream on top.
Notes
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Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
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Freezer Friendly: Cool completely and store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
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Vegetarian Option: Substitute beef with lentils or plant-based crumbles, and use vegetable broth.
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Extra Tang: Add a bit more vinegar or a splash of lemon juice before serving for extra zing.
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Low-Carb Friendly: Omit the brown sugar or replace it with a low-carb sweetener like erythritol.
- Prep Time: 10 min
- Cook Time: 15 min