In a large pot over medium-high heat, cook 1 lb of ground beef until it’s no longer pink. Use a folded paper towel and a spatula to swish around and soak up any excess grease.
Add 1 cup of chopped yellow onion. Sauté for about 2 minutes until the onion begins to soften. Now stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
Next, add 3 cups of chopped cabbage, 32 oz of beef broth, 2 chopped carrots, 15 oz tomato sauce, 15 oz canned diced tomatoes, ½ cup long-grain white rice, 1 ½ Tbsp brown sugar, 1 tsp dried thyme, and 1 bay leaf. Mix everything together well.
Let the soup simmer on low heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice and vegetables are tender. Now the soup is ready to ladle into bowls to serve!