Keto Meaty Cabbage Soup Recipe

Introduction

Embarking on a ketogenic journey can sometimes be challenging, but with recipes like Keto Meaty Cabbage Soup, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal that supports your dietary goals. This hearty soup is a perfect blend of savory meats and tender cabbage, making it a comforting dish that warms you from the inside out. Not only is it easy to prepare—thanks to the convenience of a slow cooker—but it’s also packed with nutrients and flavor. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll provide detailed instructions, measurements, and nutritional information to ensure your success with this comforting recipe.

Benefits of This Recipe

  1. Low in Carbohydrates: This soup is primarily composed of cabbage, which is low in carbs and high in fiber, making it an ideal ingredient for a ketogenic diet.
  2. High in Protein: The inclusion of meats adds protein, helping to keep you full and satisfied.
  3. Rich in Nutrients: Cabbage and other vegetables are loaded with vitamins and minerals, contributing to overall health.
  4. Versatile and Customizable: You can easily modify the ingredients to suit your taste preferences or to use what you have on hand.

Ingredients

To make approximately 8 servings of Keto Meaty Cabbage Soup, you will need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

  • 1 lb (450 g) ground beef (or ground turkey, sausage, or chicken)
  • 1 lb (450 g) smoked sausage (such as kielbasa), sliced
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 large head of cabbage (about 2-3 lbs), chopped
  • 4 cups (960 ml) beef broth (or chicken broth)
  • 1 can (14 oz or 400 g) diced tomatoes (with juice)
  • 1 cup (150 g) bell peppers, diced (any color)
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning (or your favorite herb blend)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (or avocado oil)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for tanginess)
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for added flavor)

For Serving:

  • Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish, optional)
  • Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 250
  • Total Fat: 16g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Cholesterol: 70mg
  • Sodium: 800mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 9g
  • Dietary Fiber: 3g
  • Net Carbs: 6g
  • Protein: 20g

Weight Watchers (WW) Points

  • Blue Plan: 5 points per serving
  • Green Plan: 5 points per serving
  • Purple Plan: 4 points per serving

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

  1. Chop the Vegetables: Begin by chopping the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Dice the onion and bell peppers, and mince the garlic. Having everything prepped will streamline the cooking process.
  2. Slice the Sausage: If using smoked sausage, slice it into rounds. This will allow it to cook evenly and release its flavor into the soup.

Step 2: Sauté the Meats and Aromatics

  1. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium heat, add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once hot, add the ground beef. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until browned, breaking it apart with a spatula. Drain excess fat if necessary.
  2. Add the Sausage and Aromatics: Add the sliced smoked sausage, diced onion, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for another 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

Step 3: Transfer to the Slow Cooker

  1. Add to Slow Cooker: Transfer the cooked meat mixture into the slow cooker. This will allow the flavors to meld together beautifully over time.

Step 4: Add the Remaining Ingredients

  1. Layer the Ingredients: Add the chopped cabbage, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and diced bell peppers to the slow cooker.
  2. Pour in the Broth: Add the beef broth to the slow cooker, ensuring that all the ingredients are submerged. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can reduce the amount of broth.

Step 5: Season the Soup

  1. Add Seasonings: Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, smoked paprika (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste. For an extra kick of flavor, add the apple cider vinegar.

Step 6: Cook the Soup

  1. Set the Slow Cooker: Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The longer it cooks, the more the flavors will develop.

Step 7: Final Touches

  1. Stir Before Serving: Once the cooking time is complete, give the soup a good stir. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or vinegar as desired.

Step 8: Serve the Soup

  1. Ladle into Bowls: Serve the soup hot in bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese if desired.

Step 9: Enjoy!

  1. Store Leftovers: Any leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.

Storage Instructions

Refrigeration

  1. Store Properly: Make sure to let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. This helps to prevent condensation, which can lead to sogginess.

Freezing

  1. Freeze for Later: If you wish to freeze the soup, ladle it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Instructions

  1. Reheat on the Stovetop: To reheat, simply pour the soup into a pot and warm it over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
  2. Microwave Method: You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

Tips for Perfect Keto Meaty Cabbage Soup

  1. Use Quality Meats: Choose high-quality ground beef and sausage to enhance the flavor and nutritional value of the soup. Grass-fed options are often richer in nutrients.
  2. Customize Your Vegetables: Feel free to experiment with additional low-carb vegetables such as zucchini, green beans, or celery to increase the volume and nutrition of the soup.
  3. Adjust Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of it using an immersion blender, or add more cabbage to absorb the liquid.

Health Considerations

  1. Nutrient-Dense: This soup is rich in vitamins C and K from the cabbage, along with iron and protein from the meats, making it a wholesome meal.
  2. Low Sodium Option: For those watching their sodium intake, opt for low-sodium broth and adjust seasoning to your preference.

Final Thoughts

The Keto Meaty Cabbage Soup is not just a meal; it’s a nourishing experience that supports your ketogenic lifestyle. With its robust flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s a comforting option that will keep you satisfied throughout the day. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or preparing it for meal prep, this soup is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy your journey with this deliciously simple, satisfying dish!