Introduction to Cabbage and Minced Meat
Cabbage and Minced Meat is a simple yet flavorful dish that showcases the beauty of humble ingredients. Combining tender cabbage, savory ground meat, and aromatic spices, this recipe is a classic comfort food enjoyed in many cultures.
It’s versatile, easy to prepare, and packed with nutrients, making it a go-to option for busy weeknights or budget-friendly meals.
Whether you’re looking for a hearty main course or a satisfying side dish, this recipe delivers rich flavors with minimal effort.
Plus, it’s highly customizable—perfect for adapting to your taste or using up ingredients in your pantry. Serve it with rice, potatoes, or crusty bread for a wholesome and delicious meal your family will love!
Ingredients:
1 lb ground beef (or ground pork, turkey, or a mix)
1 medium head of cabbage, chopped into bite-sized pieces
1 large onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes (optional, for extra flavor)
1 tablespoon tomato paste
1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
1 teaspoon cumin (optional)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup beef broth (or water)
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish.
Instructions:
Prepare the Cabbage:
Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces and set it aside.
Brown the Minced Meat:
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced meat and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Cook the Aromatics:
Add the diced onion and garlic to the pan with the browned meat. Cook for 3-4 minutes, until the onion is soft and translucent.
Add Tomatoes and Spices:
Stir in the tomato paste, diced tomatoes (if using), paprika, and cumin. Mix well to combine. Let it simmer for 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Add the Cabbage:
Add the chopped cabbage to the pan, stirring to coat it in the tomato and meat mixture. Pour in the beef broth (or water) to help soften the cabbage. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Simmer:
Cover the skillet and let the mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and the liquid has mostly evaporated.
Serve:
Once the cabbage is tender and fully cooked, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Tips for a Perfect Dish
Choose the Right Meat:
Use lean ground meat to avoid excessive grease, or drain the fat after browning.
Adjust the Spices:
For extra depth, add smoked paprika, chili powder, or Italian seasoning based on your taste preference.
Make it Low-Carb:
Skip the diced tomatoes and adjust the broth to reduce carbohydrates.
Add Extra Veggies:
Include carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for added color and nutrients.
Enhance the Texture:
Sprinkle with toasted breadcrumbs or Parmesan for a crunchy topping.
How to Store
Refrigeration:
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.
Freezing:
Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Variations
Vegetarian Option:
Replace the minced meat with lentils or crumbled tofu for a meatless version.
Spicy Kick:
Add red pepper flakes, chili powder, or hot sauce for extra heat.
Asian-Inspired Flavor:
Swap tomato paste for soy sauce and sesame oil, and garnish with green onions.
Cheesy Finish:
Sprinkle shredded cheddar or mozzarella on top before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use red cabbage instead of green?
Yes, red cabbage works well, but it will slightly alter the flavor and color of the dish.
2. What can I serve this with?
Serve with rice, mashed potatoes, crusty bread, or enjoy it as a standalone dish.
3. Can I make it ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish reheats well and tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.
4. Can I skip the tomatoes?
Yes, the tomatoes are optional. If omitted, increase the broth slightly for moisture.
5. How can I thicken the sauce?
Let the dish simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes, or mix a teaspoon of cornstarch with water and stir it in.
This Cabbage and Minced Meat recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, offering a delicious balance of protein and vegetables in every bite!
Nutritional Information for Cabbage and Minced Meat
(Per serving, assuming the recipe makes 4 servings. Values are approximate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.)
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Protein: 18 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Sugars: 6 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Potassium: 600 mg
Notes:
- Using lean ground meat will reduce the fat content.
- The addition of tomatoes increases the carbohydrate content slightly but provides additional vitamins like vitamin C.
- Adjust the salt and broth as needed to lower sodium levels.
- Adding more vegetables (like carrots or bell peppers) will increase the fiber and micronutrient content.
This dish is a balanced option that combines protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making it both nutritious and satisfying!