Comforting Cabbage Soup (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 2 cups cabbage, chopped
02 - 1 teaspoon dried basil
03 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
04 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
05 - 1 cup water
06 - Salt and pepper, as preferred
07 - 1 (15 oz) can diced tomatoes
08 - 1 onion, chopped
09 - 1 lb ground beef
10 - 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional for sweetness)
11 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
12 - Fresh parsley (optional for a fresh garnish)
13 - 4 cups beef broth
14 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
15 - 1 cup cooked rice
16 - 1 (6 oz) can tomato paste

# Instructions:

01 - Warm up the olive oil in a big pot using medium heat. Add ground beef and, while stirring and breaking it apart, cook until it’s fully browned and done, about 6 minutes.
02 - Toss the chopped onion and garlic into the same pot, stirring regularly for 3 to 4 minutes until they soften.
03 - Mix in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, cooked rice, broth, water, cabbage, thyme, basil, paprika, and seasonings like salt and pepper. Let the mixture heat up and come to a boil.
04 - Turn the heat down to low and let everything cook gently for 30 to 40 minutes until the cabbage is tender and the flavors blend well.
05 - If you want, add some brown sugar to balance out the tangy tomatoes. Taste and adjust with more salt or pepper if needed before turning off the heat.
06 - Scoop into bowls while hot and, if you like, sprinkle some fresh parsley on top for extra color.

# Notes:

01 - Want extra heat? Throw in a dash of chili flakes.
02 - If you want it thinner, just stir in more broth.
03 - Keeps fresh in the fridge for about 3 days, or freeze to save it longer.