Keto Meaty Cabbage Soup: A Hearty Low-Carb Delight

Introduction

If you’re looking for a filling, nutritious, and low-carb meal, Keto Meaty Cabbage Soup is the perfect dish to satisfy your hunger and nourish your body. Packed with protein from the meat, fiber from the cabbage, and a medley of flavorful vegetables, this soup is not only delicious but also aligns perfectly with a ketogenic lifestyle. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or searching for a comforting dinner on a chilly evening, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Nutritional Overview

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s look at the nutritional content per serving (based on 8 servings):

  • Calories: 220
  • Total Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 6g
  • Carbohydrates: 6g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Net Carbs: 4g
  • Protein: 18g
  • SmartPoints (WW): 5

This hearty soup provides an excellent balance of macronutrients while keeping your carb intake low, making it a great option for those on a keto diet.

Ingredients

To prepare this delicious Keto Meaty Cabbage Soup, gather the following ingredients:

For the Soup Base:

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef (or ground turkey for a leaner option)
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, diced (optional, for a small amount of sweetness)
  • 4 cups cabbage, chopped (approximately half a medium head)
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (with juice)
  • 4 cups beef broth (or vegetable broth)
  • 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Vegetables:

  • 1 cup bell peppers, diced (any color)
  • 1 cup zucchini, diced
  • 1 cup green beans, chopped

For Garnish:

  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Equipment Needed

Before you begin, ensure you have the following kitchen tools ready:

  1. Large pot or Dutch oven
  2. Wooden spoon or spatula
  3. Measuring cups and spoons
  4. Knife and cutting board
  5. Ladle (for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil

Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Olive oil adds flavor and healthy fats, making it an ideal base for your soup.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Meat

Once the oil is hot, add 1 lb of ground beef (or turkey) to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat apart, stirring occasionally. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Ensure that the meat is evenly cooked to avoid any raw bits.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

After the meat is browned, add 1 medium diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is translucent. Follow with 2 cloves of minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant. Aromatics are essential for building flavor in your soup.

Step 4: Add the Vegetables

Next, stir in the 2 medium diced carrots (if using), along with the chopped 4 cups of cabbage. Sauté the mixture for another 3-4 minutes, allowing the cabbage to wilt slightly and the carrots to soften. This step enhances the sweetness and depth of flavor in the soup.

Step 5: Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth

Add 1 can of diced tomatoes (including the juice) to the pot, followed by 4 cups of beef broth. The combination of tomatoes and broth creates a rich, flavorful base for the soup.

Step 6: Season the Soup

Stir in 1 tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, and 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika. These seasonings elevate the flavor profile, giving the soup its hearty character. Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting according to your preference.

Step 7: Bring to a Simmer

Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the soup to a simmer. Once it starts bubbling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 20-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the vegetables to become tender.

Step 8: Add Optional Vegetables

If you’re including optional vegetables, add 1 cup of diced bell peppers, 1 cup of diced zucchini, and 1 cup of chopped green beans to the pot during the last 10 minutes of cooking. These vegetables provide additional texture and nutrients while keeping the dish vibrant.

Step 9: Adjust Consistency

After the soup has simmered, check the consistency. If it’s too thick for your liking, you can add a bit more broth or water to achieve your desired texture.

Step 10: Taste and Adjust Seasoning

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs according to your preferences.

Step 11: Serve Hot

Once everything is cooked to perfection, ladle the soup into bowls.

Step 12: Garnish

For a touch of freshness, garnish each serving with chopped fresh parsley. This not only adds color but also enhances the overall flavor of the soup.

Step 13: Enjoy!

Serve the Keto Meaty Cabbage Soup hot, and enjoy the comforting warmth of this delicious dish. It’s perfect on its own or paired with a side salad for a complete meal.

Useful Information

Storage Tips

Leftover Keto Meaty Cabbage Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well; portion it out into freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When reheating, you may need to add a splash of broth or water to restore the consistency.

Substitution Ideas

  • Meat: Feel free to substitute the ground beef with ground pork, turkey, or even a plant-based meat alternative for a vegetarian version.
  • Vegetables: Customize the soup by adding or substituting your favorite low-carb vegetables, such as spinach, kale, or cauliflower.
  • Broth: Chicken broth can be used as an alternative to beef broth, depending on your flavor preference.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this hearty soup with a side of keto-friendly bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Keto Meaty Cabbage Soup is a delicious and satisfying dish that perfectly aligns with a low-carb lifestyle. With its rich flavors, wholesome ingredients, and comforting warmth, this soup is ideal for cozy evenings and meal prep. It’s easy to make, nutritious, and sure to please the whole family. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy a bowl of this hearty soup that nourishes both body and soul!