Low Sodium Classic Cabbage Soup

Total time1 hr 15 min

Prep time20 min

Cook time55 min

Ground beef gets a good browning before it simmers with tender carrots, celery, and cabbage in a rich tomato-and-broth base. Smoked paprika and thyme bring warmth and depth, while a splash of apple cider vinegar at the end brightens the whole pot and balances the sweetness of the cabbage. It's a hearty, low-effort one-pot meal that cooks down into deeply savory, satisfying bowls. The low-sodium broth base makes this an easy option to portion your own seasoning, so it's a solid pick for anyone watching their sodium intake without sacrificing flavor. Finish with a scatter of fresh parsley for a little color and freshness right before serving.

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Ingredients

6 servings

1 lb ground beef (80/20)
Kroger Ground Beef 80/20 Simple Truth 80% Lean Natural Ground Beef Harris Teeter Premium 80% Lean Ground Beef SunFed Ranch 100% Grass Fed 80% Lean Organic Ground Beef Brick Kroger 80/20 Ground Beef
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1 tbsp olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced into ¼-inch rounds
3 stalks celery, sliced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
2 tbsp tomato paste
6 cups low-sodium beef broth
1 small head green cabbage (about 2 lbs), cored and cut into 1-inch pieces
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 bay leaf
1 tsp salt, plus more to taste
Chef's tip
Season to taste - salt substitutes can taste bitter in larger amounts, so start with less.
½ tsp black pepper, plus more to taste
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar

For serving

2 tbsp fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions

1
Heat the olive oil in a large (6-quart or larger) pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, until browned and no pink remains at the center, about 6–8 minutes. Drain off all but about 1 tablespoon of fat.
2
Reduce the heat to medium. Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is softened and translucent, about 5–6 minutes.

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