Cabbage Soup With Ground Beef

Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef The Ultimate Moroccan Comfort – if you’re craving a hearty, nutritious meal that’s as comforting as it is flavorful, this Moroccan-inspired cabbage soup is just what you need! Imagine tender cabbage simmered with ground beef, fragrant spices like cumin and turmeric, and a rich, satisfying broth that warms you from the inside out. This soup is not only packed with protein and vitamins, but it’s also incredibly versatile—perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends. Whether you’re new to Moroccan cuisine or a seasoned fan, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Ready to dive into the world of bold, comforting flavors? Let’s get started!

Ingredients

To make this comforting Moroccan cabbage soup with ground beef, you’ll need a few key ingredients that come together to create a flavorful and satisfying meal. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

• 1 lb ground beef – Lean ground beef adds protein and richness to the soup.
• 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped – Fresh cabbage provides a hearty base and is packed with fiber and vitamins.
• 2 large carrots, diced – These add a touch of natural sweetness and color to the soup.
• 1 large onion, chopped – Onions bring a savory depth of flavor.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – For that aromatic punch that complements the beef and cabbage.
• 2 medium tomatoes, chopped – Tomatoes add acidity and balance the richness of the beef.
• 4 cups vegetable broth – For a flavorful base, though you can substitute with beef broth if you prefer a stronger flavor.
• 2 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing and bringing out the flavors of the ingredients.
• 1 tsp ground cumin – A warm, earthy spice that’s a hallmark of Moroccan cooking.
• 1 tsp ground turmeric – Adds a beautiful golden color and earthy flavor.
• Salt and pepper – To taste.
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish) – To freshen up the soup and add a burst of color.
• Lemon wedges (optional) – A squeeze of lemon just before serving brightens the flavors of the soup.

Pro Tips:

• Adjust the spice level: If you like a little heat, you can add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of harissa paste to the soup.
• Substitute proteins: Feel free to swap the ground beef for ground lamb or turkey if you prefer. Each option offers a unique flavor while still providing the comforting base you’re looking for.

With these ingredients, you’re just a few steps away from creating a delicious Moroccan-inspired soup that’s perfect for any occasion!

Equipment

Before you dive into making this delicious Moroccan cabbage soup with ground beef, it’s important to have the right tools on hand. Here’s what you’ll need to make the cooking process smooth and easy:

• Large Soup Pot or Dutch Oven – A sturdy pot is essential for simmering the soup and ensuring all the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Large Pan – You’ll need this for sautéing the ground beef and vegetables, helping to bring out their flavors before adding them to the broth.
• Wooden Spoon or Stirring Spoon – For stirring the ingredients, especially while sautéing, to prevent anything from sticking to the pan.
• Knife and Cutting Board – A sharp knife is a must for chopping the cabbage, carrots, onions, and garlic with ease.
• Ladle – Perfect for serving the soup, ensuring you get just the right amount of the rich broth and tender vegetables.
• Measuring Spoons – To ensure you’re adding just the right amount of spices like cumin and turmeric.

Pro Tips:

• One-Pot Wonder: If you’re looking to save time and minimize cleanup, use a large pot that’s oven-safe or a Dutch oven. You can sauté the beef and vegetables directly in the pot before adding the broth for a one-pot cooking experience.
• Sharp Knives Are Key: Make sure your knife is sharp! It’ll make chopping the cabbage and other vegetables easier and quicker, which is especially helpful if you’re preparing a big batch of soup.

With these simple tools, you’re ready to cook up a storm. Each piece of equipment plays a role in helping you create a delicious, hearty soup that’s packed with Moroccan flavors!

Instructions: Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef

Now that you’ve gathered your ingredients and equipment, it’s time to get cooking! Follow these simple steps to create a hearty, flavorful Moroccan cabbage soup with ground beef that will have everyone coming back for more.

1. Sauté the vegetables:
   Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and garlic, cooking them until soft and fragrant, about 2-3 minutes. This will bring out their natural sweetness and create a solid flavor base for the soup.
2. Brown the ground beef:
   Add the ground beef to the pot, breaking it up with your wooden spoon as it cooks. Let it brown and cook through, stirring occasionally to ensure it doesn’t stick to the pot. This step will add richness and texture to the soup. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper to enhance the flavor.
3. Add the spices:
   Once the beef is browned, it’s time to add the spices! Sprinkle in the ground cumin, turmeric, and a little more salt and pepper. Stir the mixture well, allowing the spices to toast slightly and infuse the beef and vegetables with their earthy flavors. The aroma of the cumin and turmeric will immediately make your kitchen smell amazing!
4. Add the vegetables and broth:
   Now, add the chopped cabbage, carrots, and tomatoes to the pot. Give everything a good stir, then pour in the vegetable broth. The broth will form the base of your soup, bringing all the flavors together in a rich and comforting liquid. Bring everything to a simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook gently for about 30-40 minutes.
5. Simmer and let the flavors meld:
   Let the soup simmer, stirring occasionally. The cabbage should become tender, and the broth will thicken slightly. Taste the soup along the way and adjust the seasoning if needed. If you like a bit more spice, you can add a dash of cayenne or harissa for an extra kick.
6. Serve and garnish:
   Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls, and garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice. The citrus adds a fresh brightness that balances the richness of the beef and cabbage.

Pro Tips:

• Slow and Steady: For a deeper, richer flavor, you can let the soup simmer for a bit longer (up to an hour), allowing the spices and vegetables to fully blend together.
• Customize Your Broth: Feel free to substitute vegetable broth with beef broth for a heartier flavor, or use a homemade broth if you have it on hand for an extra personal touch.

With each step, you’re creating a dish that combines the richness of ground beef, the freshness of cabbage, and the bold flavors of Moroccan spices. Enjoy the journey and savor the final bowl of comfort!

Key Benefits

This Moroccan cabbage soup with ground beef isn’t just a treat for your taste buds—it’s also packed with health benefits that make it a nourishing meal for your body. Let’s take a look at what makes this soup not only delicious but also a wholesome choice:

• Rich in Protein: The ground beef provides a great source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall body function. It helps keep you full and satisfied, making this soup a perfect meal to fuel your day. Mayo clinic
• Packed with Vitamins: Cabbage is an excellent source of vitamin C, an antioxidant that helps boost the immune system and keep your skin healthy. The carrots also add a healthy dose of beta-carotene, which supports eye health and contributes to a glowing complexion. Mayo Clinic
• Good for Digestion: The fiber in cabbage and carrots helps promote healthy digestion and keeps things moving smoothly. Plus, the addition of fresh cilantro as a garnish can support digestive health by aiding in detoxification.
• Low-Calorie Comfort: This soup is a light yet hearty option, making it a great choice for those looking to enjoy a satisfying meal without overindulging. It’s packed with flavor but won’t weigh you down—perfect for a balanced, healthy meal.
• Anti-Inflammatory Benefits: With the inclusion of turmeric, this soup has natural anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the body and promote overall health. It’s a great addition to any anti-inflammatory diet.
• Versatile and Customizable: One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Whether you’re looking to make it vegetarian by swapping the ground beef with chickpeas or want to add extra greens for more vitamins, this soup is incredibly adaptable to your dietary needs.

Pro Tips:

• Add Beans for Extra Protein: If you’re looking for an even higher protein content, consider adding a can of white beans or chickpeas to the soup. They’ll absorb all the delicious flavors while adding a great plant-based protein boost. The Vegetarian Resource Group
• Use Organic Ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for organic vegetables and grass-fed beef. These options tend to have higher nutrient levels and fewer chemicals, making your soup even more nutritious.

With its combination of essential nutrients, comforting flavors, and customizable ingredients, this Moroccan cabbage soup with ground beef is not only a feast for your taste buds but a healthy, nourishing choice for any meal.

Pro Tips and Variations

Now that you’ve mastered the basics of making this delicious Moroccan cabbage soup with ground beef, let’s explore some pro tips and variations to elevate your cooking experience and customize the dish to suit your taste. These tweaks will add layers of flavor, texture, and creativity to this already fantastic recipe.

Pro Tips:

• Enhance the Flavor with Fresh Herbs: While cilantro adds a fresh and vibrant touch, consider adding a handful of fresh parsley or mint for an extra layer of flavor. Fresh herbs brighten up the soup and balance the richness of the beef.
• Use Bone Broth: For an even richer, more nourishing soup, swap vegetable broth for homemade bone broth. The collagen in bone broth will not only improve the texture but also add additional health benefits, such as joint support and gut health.
• Sauté the Spices First: To bring out the full flavor of your Moroccan spices (like cumin and turmeric), sauté them with the onions and garlic in the beginning. This quick toasting step will enhance the depth of the spices and infuse the entire soup with that signature Moroccan aroma.
• Add More Vegetables: The beauty of this soup is its versatility. Feel free to throw in other vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or even sweet potatoes. These ingredients not only add more nutrition but also bring more color and texture to the dish.
• Slow Cooker Variation: If you prefer a hands-off approach, make this soup in the slow cooker. Simply brown the beef, sauté the onions and garlic, and then toss everything into the slow cooker. Set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. It’s an easy way to let the flavors meld together even more deeply.
• Make it Spicy: For those who love a little heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a spoonful of harissa paste. These spicy additions will give the soup a nice kick and bring it closer to the traditional flavors of Moroccan cuisine.

Variations:

• Vegetarian Version: For a meatless alternative, replace the ground beef with chickpeas or lentils. Both options add protein and fiber, making this soup just as hearty and satisfying without the meat.
• Ground Turkey or Lamb: If you prefer a leaner protein, ground turkey is a great substitute. Alternatively, ground lamb will bring an even more authentic Moroccan flavor to the dish, adding richness and depth.
• Add a Grain: For a more filling version of this soup, add some cooked quinoa, couscous, or even rice towards the end of cooking. These grains will soak up the flavorful broth and make the soup even heartier.

With these pro tips and variations, you can easily tailor this Moroccan cabbage soup with ground beef to fit your preferences and dietary needs, making it a truly customizable and versatile recipe. Whether you’re sticking to the traditional version or getting creative with ingredients, this soup is bound to be a hit!

Serving Suggestions

Now that your Moroccan cabbage soup with ground beef is ready to be enjoyed, let’s talk about how to serve it for the perfect meal experience. A great soup is about more than just the flavors—it’s also about how you present it. Here are some ideas to make your soup even more satisfying and delightful to serve:

• Garnish with Fresh Cilantro: A generous sprinkle of fresh cilantro not only adds a burst of color but also brightens the flavor of the soup. If you love a bit of extra zing, squeeze a fresh wedge of lemon over the soup just before serving. The citrus will elevate the rich flavors and add a refreshing contrast.
• Serve with Moroccan Bread (Khobz): No Moroccan meal is complete without a piece of warm, crusty Moroccan bread. Khobz is perfect for dipping into the soup and soaking up all the delicious broth. If you don’t have access to Moroccan bread, any crusty bread will do the trick, but khobz offers the most authentic experience.
• Pair with a Light Side Salad: To balance the richness of the soup, serve it with a light side salad made of mixed greens, cucumber, and tomatoes. Toss it with a simple lemon and olive oil dressing for a refreshing contrast.
• A Dollop of Yogurt: For extra creaminess, consider serving a dollop of plain yogurt on the side. The coolness of the yogurt complements the warm soup and adds a smooth texture that balances the spices.
• Add Olives for a Mediterranean Touch: If you want to bring more of the Mediterranean flavors into your meal, serve the soup with a few Kalamata olives or green olives on the side. Their briny flavor pairs wonderfully with the richness of the soup.
• Enjoy with a Moroccan Tea: For a true Moroccan experience, serve your cabbage soup with a glass of traditional Moroccan mint tea. It’s the perfect way to complement the flavors of the soup and end the meal on a refreshing note.

Pro Tip:

• Make it a Complete Meal: For a heartier, all-in-one meal, add some cooked quinoa, couscous, or rice directly into the soup. These grains will soak up the broth, making it even more filling and perfect for a satisfying dinner.

These serving suggestions will not only enhance the flavors of your Moroccan cabbage soup with ground beef but also elevate your dining experience. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or part of a larger spread, these tips will make every bowl memorable.

Conclusion

Your Moroccan cabbage soup with ground beef is now ready to serve, and it’s sure to become a comforting staple in your recipe collection. This dish combines the heartiness of ground beef, the freshness of cabbage, and the warm, aromatic flavors of Moroccan spices, making it a perfect meal for any occasion—whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening at home or impressing guests at a dinner party.

With its simple ingredients and straightforward cooking process, this soup brings the rich, flavorful essence of Moroccan cuisine into your kitchen without requiring complicated techniques. It’s a satisfying, nutrient-packed meal that offers the best of both worlds—comforting and healthy.

Whether you enjoy it on a chilly day to warm up or as a nourishing dish to share with loved ones, this soup promises to be both filling and full of flavor. Plus, with the tips and variations provided, you can easily make it your own, adding different proteins, vegetables, or spice levels to suit your taste.

Pro Tip:

• Leftovers? No Problem! This soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. It stores well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days or can be frozen for up to 3 months—making it an excellent make-ahead meal for busy weeks.

So grab your pot, enjoy the process of cooking, and savor the comforting, Moroccan-inspired flavors of this cabbage soup with ground beef. It’s a dish that’s as nourishing for the soul as it is for the body—perfect for any time you need a little extra warmth and comfort in your life.

Moroccan Harira Soup:

if you’re looking for another Moroccan recipe that adds warmth and variety to your table, don’t miss out on trying Moroccan Harira Soup. It’s a fantastic option, rich in flavors and nutrients, and one of the traditional dishes that will captivate your senses. For amazing Harira soup recipes, visit the following link: Moroccan Harira Soup Recipes. Enjoy exploring the authentic Moroccan flavors and bring a touch of tradition to your kitchen!

FAQs

Here are some frequently asked questions to help you get the most out of your Moroccan cabbage soup with ground beef. If you’re looking for extra tips or wondering how to store leftovers, this section has got you covered!

Can I make this soup in advance?
Absolutely! This soup actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Simply let it cool, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. It also freezes beautifully—just let it cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. You can store it in the freezer for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through.

Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can! If you’re not a fan of ground beef, you can easily swap it out for ground turkey, ground lamb, or even chicken. Each will bring a slightly different flavor, but they’ll still work wonderfully in this recipe. Ground lamb is a great choice for a more authentic Moroccan flavor, while ground turkey or chicken offers a leaner alternative.

Is this soup spicy?
The base recipe isn’t spicy, but it does have a nice warmth from the cumin and turmeric. If you enjoy spicy foods, feel free to add a pinch of cayenne pepper, chili flakes, or even a spoonful of harissa paste to give it an extra kick. Adjust the spice level to your taste!

Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! You can easily make this soup vegetarian by replacing the ground beef with chickpeas, lentils, or a combination of both. These legumes provide a great source of protein and will keep the soup hearty and satisfying. You can also add extra vegetables, like zucchini or sweet potatoes, for added nutrition.

What can I serve with this soup?
This Moroccan cabbage soup is great on its own, but it’s even better when paired with some sides! Serve it with Moroccan bread (khobz) for dipping, or add a light salad with lemon and olive oil for a refreshing contrast. A dollop of plain yogurt or a squeeze of lemon just before serving can also elevate the flavors and make it even more delightful.

How can I adjust the seasoning to my taste?
The beauty of this soup is how customizable it is! If you prefer a more pronounced spice profile, feel free to add more cumin, turmeric, or paprika. You can also play around with other Moroccan spices, such as coriander or cinnamon, to give it your own twist. Always taste as you go to ensure it’s perfectly balanced to your liking.

With these tips and answers to common questions, you’re all set to make and enjoy your Moroccan cabbage soup with ground beef. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious, comforting spoonful!

Recipe Recap: Moroccan Cabbage Soup with Ground Beef

Recipe Details:

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour
• Servings: 4-6 servings
• Calories: 350-400 calories per serving (approx.)

Nutrition Information (Per Serving):

• Calories: 375 kcal
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 6g
• Cholesterol: 60mg
• Carbohydrates: 20g
• Fiber: 6g
• Sugar: 7g
• Protein: 30g
• Sodium: 700mg
• Vitamin A: 110% DV
• Vitamin C: 80% DV
• Calcium: 6% DV
• Iron: 20% DV

Categorize the Recipe:

• Course: Main Dish, Soup
• Cuisine: Moroccan, Mediterranean
• Diet: Gluten-Free, Low-Carb (when served alone), High-Protein
• Method: Stovetop, Simmer
• Skill Level: Easy to Moderate