Introduction:
Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet is a hearty, nutritious, and flavorful meal that combines tender cabbage with well-seasoned ground beef. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and satisfying dinner. With a combination of robust spices and the freshness of cabbage, this recipe offers a balanced blend of textures and flavors that will please the entire family. Plus, it’s a one-pan dish, making cleanup a breeze!
Overview of the Recipe:
This Cabbage and Ground Beef Skillet is a straightforward dish that comes together in under 30 minutes. It features ground beef cooked with onions and garlic, then simmered with diced tomatoes and a mix of savory spices. Finally, chopped cabbage is added, cooking just long enough to become tender but still retain a bit of crunch. The result is a comforting, nutritious meal that’s perfect on its own or served with a side of your choice.
History and Origin:
While there isn’t a specific origin for the combination of cabbage and ground beef, these ingredients are staples in many cuisines around the world. Cabbage has long been valued for its affordability, availability, and nutritional benefits. Ground beef, on the other hand, is a versatile protein that can be found in countless recipes across various cultures. This dish likely evolved from the tradition of using simple, accessible ingredients to create filling and nourishing meals, particularly in Eastern European and American kitchens.
Ingredients:
- 1 small cabbage, chopped
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 can diced tomatoes (15 oz)
- 1 cup onions, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon bouillon powder
- ½ teaspoon cumin
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt, to taste
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Start by chopping the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
- Chop the onions and mince the garlic cloves. Set aside.
- Open the can of diced tomatoes and measure out the spices.
- Cook the Ground Beef:
- Place a large pan or a large cast-iron skillet on medium heat.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a wooden spoon to break up the beef into smaller pieces as it cooks.
- Continue cooking the ground beef until it is fully browned, with no pink remaining.
- Add Onions and Garlic:
- Push the browned ground beef to one side of the skillet to make room for the onions and garlic.
- Add the chopped onions and minced garlic to the empty side of the skillet.
- Sauté the onions and garlic for 2-3 minutes, or until the onions become translucent and fragrant.
- Combine with Tomatoes and Spices:
- Pour the diced tomatoes (with their juices) into the skillet.
- Sprinkle in the bouillon powder, cumin, cayenne pepper, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt.
- Stir everything together until the ingredients are well combined.
- Simmer the Mixture:
- Increase the heat to medium-high and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning with more salt if needed.
- Add the Cabbage:
- Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet, stirring it into the beef and tomato mixture.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and let the cabbage cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until it reaches your desired level of tenderness.
- Stir occasionally to ensure the cabbage cooks evenly.
- Final Touches:
- Once the cabbage is tender, remove the skillet from heat.
- Give the dish a final stir to ensure everything is well mixed.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning one last time, if necessary.
- Serve:
- Serve the Cabbage and Ground Beef hot, directly from the skillet.
- Enjoy it on its own, or with a side of rice, potatoes, or crusty bread.
Pairing and Serving Suggestions:
This Cabbage and Ground Beef dish is versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides. It goes well with steamed rice, mashed potatoes, or even a slice of warm, crusty bread. For a low-carb option, serve it alongside cauliflower rice or a simple green salad. To add some creaminess, a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of shredded cheese on top would be a delightful addition.
Variations of the Recipe:
- Cabbage and Ground Turkey: Substitute the ground beef with ground turkey for a leaner option.
- Spicy Kick: Add more cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes if you prefer a spicier dish.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or crumbled tofu.
- Extra Veggies: Add diced bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms for more vegetables and added flavor.
- Herb Addition: Fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can be added at the end for a burst of freshness.
Health Benefits Notes:
This dish is not only delicious but also nutritious. Cabbage is low in calories and packed with vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. Ground beef provides a good source of protein, iron, and essential nutrients. The spices used, like cumin and paprika, have anti-inflammatory properties and can aid in digestion. This dish is a balanced meal that supports a healthy diet while satisfying your taste buds.
FAQs:
- Can I make this dish ahead of time?
- Yes, Cabbage and Ground Beef can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
- Can I freeze leftovers?
- Absolutely! Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
- What type of cabbage should I use?
- Green cabbage is commonly used, but you can also use savoy cabbage or red cabbage for a different flavor and color.
- Can I add other seasonings?
- Yes, feel free to adjust the seasoning to your taste. You can add herbs like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves for added depth of flavor.
- Is this dish suitable for a low-carb diet?
- Yes, this dish is naturally low in carbs, making it a great option for those following a low-carb or keto diet.
Conclusion:
Cabbage and Ground Beef is a simple yet flavorful dish that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any night of the week. With its hearty ingredients, robust spices, and flexibility for customization, it’s sure to become a staple in your meal rotation. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner, a meal prep option, or a comforting dish to share with family, this recipe ticks all the boxes. Enjoy it as is, or get creative with variations and sides to make it your own.