Here’s a simple and delicious recipe for Cabbage and Minced Meat. This hearty dish combines tender cabbage with flavorful minced meat, making it a satisfying, budget-friendly meal that’s perfect for weeknights.
Cabbage and Minced Meat Recipe
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:
- Add Carrots: For extra flavor and sweetness, add diced carrots when you add the onions.
- Spice it Up: Add chili flakes or cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Serve with Rice: This dish pairs wonderfully with rice or mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.
Variations:
- Protein Alternatives: You can use ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat for a lighter or vegetarian option.
- Add Veggies: Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
- Spices: Experiment with different spices such as chili powder, oregano, or thyme to enhance the flavor profile.
- Cheesy Twist: Stir in some shredded cheese towards the end of cooking for a creamy texture.
- Cabbage Style: Instead of chopped cabbage, you can use cabbage leaves to create stuffed cabbage rolls.
How to Store:
- Cool Down: Let the dish cool to room temperature before storing.
- Airtight Containers: Transfer the leftovers into airtight containers or cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- Refrigeration: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the dish in freezer-safe containers. It should last for about 2-3 months.
- Reheating: When ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Enjoy your cooking!