Hearty Golumpki Soup Recipe

🥬 Hearty Golumpki (Stuffed Cabbage Roll) Soup
Ingredients:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound lean ground beef (or ground turkey for lighter version)
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small green cabbage, chopped (about 5–6 cups)
1 large carrot, shredded
1 green bell pepper, diced
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes (no added sugar or salt)
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce (low sodium, no sugar added)
4 cups beef or chicken broth (low sodium)
1/2 cup cooked brown rice or cauliflower rice
1 teaspoon paprika
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for depth)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon sea salt (optional)
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a kick)
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (for brightness)
Instructions:
Brown the meat:
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain any excess fat if needed.
Add aromatics:
Stir in onion and garlic; cook for 3–4 minutes until softened.
Add veggies:
Mix in cabbage, carrot, and bell pepper. Cook another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Add liquids and seasonings:
Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, broth, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
Simmer:
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25–30 minutes, until cabbage is tender.
Add rice and finish:
Stir in cooked brown rice or cauliflower rice and vinegar. Simmer for another 5 minutes. Taste and adjust seasoning.
🍲 Tips for Blood Sugar Balance:
Use cauliflower rice instead of white rice for fewer carbs.
Add a handful of spinach or kale near the end for extra fiber and nutrients.
For healthy fat, drizzle with a bit of olive oil or sprinkle hemp seeds before serving.
Nutrition Boost (per serving, with cauliflower rice):
Calories: ~220
Protein: 22g
Fiber: 6g
Net Carbs: ~10–12g