Cabbage and Ground Beef – Page 2

Key Ingredients for Cabbage and Ground Beef

To make Cabbage and Ground Beef, you’ll need the following basic ingredients:

1 lb ground beef: Lean ground beef is ideal, but you can use any type of ground meat you prefer, such as turkey or pork, for different flavors.
1 medium head of cabbage: Cabbage is the star of this dish. It should be chopped or sliced into thin ribbons or chunks.
1 onion: A medium onion adds sweetness and flavor to the dish. You can use yellow, white, or red onion, depending on what you have on hand.
2 cloves garlic: Fresh garlic enhances the dish with a savory, aromatic flavor.
1-2 tablespoons olive oil: For cooking the beef and vegetables.
1 can diced tomatoes (optional): For added moisture and depth of flavor. You can skip this if you prefer a drier, more straightforward stir-fry.
1 teaspoon dried oregano: Adds an earthy, Mediterranean touch to the dish.
1 teaspoon paprika: Provides a bit of smokiness and color.
Salt and pepper: To taste.
Optional add-ins: For extra flavor, you can add chili flakes, cumin, or even soy sauce, depending on your preference.

Step-by-Step Recipe for Cabbage and Ground Beef

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

Chop the cabbage into thin strips or small chunks, depending on your preference. If you prefer your cabbage to be soft, you can chop it into smaller pieces.
Dice the onion and mince the garlic.

2. Cook the Ground Beef:

In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat.
Add the ground beef to the pan and cook, breaking it apart with a spoon or spatula. Cook until browned and fully cooked, about 7-10 minutes.
Once the beef is browned, drain any excess fat from the pan if necessary.

3. Add the Vegetables:

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan with the beef, cooking for about 2-3 minutes until the onion softens and becomes translucent.
Stir in the cabbage and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, or until it starts to wilt. If you want the cabbage to be more tender, cover the pan and let it cook for a bit longer.

4. Season and Simmer:

Season the mixture with oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Adjust the seasonings to taste.
If using, add the diced tomatoes (including the juice) to the pan. Stir to combine and allow the mixture to simmer for another 5-10 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the flavors meld together.
Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding a little more salt, pepper, or paprika for a bolder flavor.

5. Serve and Enjoy:

Once the cabbage is cooked to your liking, serve the dish hot. It pairs perfectly with a side of crusty bread, rice, or even mashed potatoes. For a lighter meal, you can enjoy it on its own or serve it with a simple salad.

Tips and Variations for Cabbage and Ground Beef

Add More Vegetables: While cabbage is the main vegetable in this dish, you can easily add others to boost the flavor and nutrition. Try adding carrots, bell peppers, or zucchini for added color and texture.
Spice It Up: If you love heat, add some chili flakes, jalapeños, or cayenne pepper to give the dish a spicy kick.
Make It a Casserole: If you prefer a more filling version of this dish, you can layer the cooked cabbage and beef mixture in a baking dish, top it with cheese, and bake for 15-20 minutes at 375°F (190°C) until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Use Ground Turkey or Chicken: For a lighter option, swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. These lean meats work well in this dish and take on the flavors of the seasonings.
Season It to Taste: Feel free to adjust the seasoning based on your preferences. You can add a dash of soy sauce for umami or sprinkle in a bit of cumin or garlic powder for additional depth of flavor.
Serve with a Side: This dish pairs wonderfully with simple sides like rice, quinoa, or even a side salad to add some freshness to the meal.

Conclusion: A Comforting and Versatile Dish

Cabbage and Ground Beef is a classic comfort food that’s as simple as it is satisfying. With its savory beef, tender cabbage, and bold seasonings, this dish is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner or a meal that feeds a crowd.

It’s also a great option for meal prep, as it stores well in the fridge for a few days and can be reheated for a quick, tasty meal. Plus, the recipe is flexible enough that you can adapt it to your tastes or dietary preferences.

Give this Cabbage and Ground Beef recipe a try—you’ll be amazed at how something so simple can be so incredibly delicious!

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