Go Back

Beef and Cabbage Keto Soup - Hearty, Simple, and Low-Carb

Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound (450 g) ground beef (80–90% lean)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil (if needed)
  • 1 small onion, chopped (optional for strict keto; see Alternatives)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1/2 small head green cabbage, cored and thinly sliced (about 5 cups)
  • 1 medium carrot, thinly sliced (optional; omit for very low-carb)
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (or sweet paprika)
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning
  • 6 cups beef broth (low-sodium)
  • 1–2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or lemon juice
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • Red pepper flakes, to taste (optional)
  • Fresh parsley or dill, chopped, for garnish

Method
 

  1. Brown the beef: Heat a large pot over medium-high. Add ground beef and cook, breaking it up, until browned and no longer pink. If there’s a lot of fat, spoon off some, leaving about 1 tablespoon for flavor.
  2. Sauté aromatics: If using onion, add it to the pot with a splash of oil if needed. Cook 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Toast the spices: Add tomato paste, smoked paprika, cumin, and thyme. Stir and cook 1 minute to toast the paste and spices. This step deepens the flavor.
  4. Add cabbage and carrot: Stir in sliced cabbage (and carrot, if using). Cook 2–3 minutes to let it wilt slightly.
  5. Pour in broth: Add beef broth and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to a simmer.
  6. Simmer: Cook uncovered for 20–25 minutes until the cabbage is tender and the flavors meld. Skim any excess fat if you prefer a lighter broth.
  7. Finish and season: Stir in apple cider vinegar or lemon juice. Taste and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to your liking.
  8. Serve: Ladle into bowls and top with fresh parsley or dill. Enjoy hot.