When the winds of the Midwest start to whisper tales of autumn and the leaves begin their golden dance, my heart turns to comforting dishes drawn from our cherished roots. This slow cooker cabbage roll soup is a loving nod to my grandmother's time-consuming cabbage rolls, which would simmer in her farmhouse kitchen, filling the air with a sense of hominess that wrapped around you like a quilt. In simplifying the process without sacrificing the depth of flavors, this soup captures the essence of a dish that's been part of family gatherings for generations. It's perfect for a cozy evening, warming you from the inside out, and a nod to the practical, hearty cooking of our Midwestern heritage.

This soup is truly a meal in itself, but if you're looking to round out your feast, a slice of crusty homemade bread or warm cornbread makes a perfect companion, begging to be dipped into the rich broth. A crisp garden salad can add a refreshing contrast, and for a touch of sweetness, try serving it with a side of apple crisp, reminiscent of family desserts enjoyed in the fall.

Servings: 6-8 servings

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound ground beef or turkey
1 small onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups beef broth
2 cups tomato sauce
1 cup water
1 small head of cabbage, chopped
3/4 cup white rice, uncooked
2 carrots, sliced
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon paprika
1 bay leaf

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef, onion, and garlic. Cook until the beef is browned and the onion is soft.

Drain any excess fat and transfer the beef mixture to the slow cooker.

Add the beef broth, tomato sauce, water, cabbage, rice, carrots, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper, paprika, and bay leaf to the slow cooker.

Stir everything together, cover, and cook on low for 6-7 hours or until the rice and cabbage are tender.

Remove the bay leaf before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

For a lighter version, try using ground turkey instead of beef, or swap the white rice for brown rice or quinoa, keeping in mind that the cooking time may need to be adjusted. You can also add some diced bell peppers for extra color and sweetness. If you like a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick. For those who prefer a vegetarian option, leave out the meat and substitute vegetable broth for a wholesome, plant-based dish.

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