🥬 Mediterranean Meaty Cabbage Soup
📝 Description
A rustic, flavor-packed soup with tender cabbage, seasoned ground meat, tomatoes, garlic, and herbs simmered into a rich, comforting broth. It’s hearty, nourishing, and perfect for cozy meals or meal prep.
🛒 Ingredients
- 300–400g ground beef or lamb
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups green cabbage, chopped
- 1 carrot, sliced
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 1 can (400g) crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- Juice of ½ lemon
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)
👩🍳 Instructions
1. Brown the Meat
- Heat olive oil in a large pot
- Add ground meat and cook until browned
- Break it up as it cooks
2. Build the Base
- Add onion and cook until soft
- Stir in garlic and tomato paste
- Cook for 1–2 minutes to deepen flavor
3. Add Vegetables
- Add cabbage, carrot, and celery
- Stir well and cook for a few minutes
4. Simmer
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and broth
- Add paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat
- Simmer for 25–30 minutes until everything is tender
5. Finish
- Add lemon juice for brightness
- Taste and adjust seasoning
6. Serve
- Ladle into bowls
- Garnish with fresh parsley and a drizzle of olive oil
💡 Tips for Best Flavor
- Use lamb for a richer Mediterranean taste
- Don’t rush the simmer—flavor builds over time
- Lemon at the end is essential for balance
🌿 Variations
- Add chickpeas for extra protein and texture
- Spice it up with chili flakes
- Add zucchini or spinach for more veggies
❓ Q & A
Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes—brown meat first, then cook on low for 6–7 hours.
Q: Is this good for weight loss?
Yes—it’s low-carb, filling, and nutrient-dense.
Q: Can I freeze it?
Absolutely—it freezes very well for up to 2–3 months.
