This red cabbage soup recipe is a hearty and filling soup, made with red/purple cabbage, ground beef, onions, and tomatoes in a rich & savory broth. It makes a cozy winter dinner idea, and a great recipe to make with a head of red cabbage.
In a large soup pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef to the pot, and cook for 10 minutes or so, breaking up the beef pieces with a wooden spoon. When all the pink has been cooked from the beef, remove the beef from the pot and set aside.
To the same pot, add the onion and sauté for 6 or 7 minutes until translucent. Toss in the carrots and celery and cook for 5 minutes longer.
Add the beef stock, thyme, oregano, tomatoes, red cabbage, brown sugar, balsamic vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir, and add the cooked beef back into the pot. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce to a simmer. Cook for 35 to 40 minutes until vegetables are tender.
Remove from heat, taste and adjust seasonings as needed - adding more salt, black pepper, or balsamic vinegar to taste! Serve with fresh cracked pepper and enjoy.