Cabbage and minced meat is a comforting dish that combines hearty ingredients into a satisfying meal. This recipe is not only easy to follow but also offers a great way to include vegetables alongside protein, making it ideal for family dinners. Perfect for those busy weeknights, the dish is filling and can be made with pantry staples that you likely have on hand, making it practical for your everyday cooking needs.
Why This Recipe Is Helpful
- Quick preparation and cooking time make it suitable for weeknight meals.
- It’s a nutritious option that combines protein, vegetables, and grains in one dish.
- The flavors meld wonderfully, making leftovers delicious the next day.
Best For
This recipe is perfect for families looking for a hearty meal that pleases everyone. Cabbage lovers and meat-eaters alike will enjoy this dish.
Be Careful If
Those managing their sodium intake should be cautious with the added chicken stock and seasoning.
Ingredients
- 1 white cabbage
- 500g ground beef (1 pound)
- 1 cup (240 ml) rice
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 carrot, grated
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 9 tomatoes, peeled and crushed
- Fresh dill and parsley, to taste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 70g (5 tablespoons) butter
- 1 tablespoon (15 g) tomato paste
- Dried spring onions
- Chicken stock (or water)
- Salt, to taste
- Sugar, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Olive oil, for cooking
Ingredient Notes
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor; they can enhance the dish significantly.
- Ground turkey or chicken can be substituted for a lighter option.
- If preferred, you can replace regular rice with brown rice for additional fiber.
Kitchen Tools Needed
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Oven-safe dish
- Knife and cutting board
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Begin by boiling water in a large pot and cooking the cabbage for about 7 minutes until slightly softened. Remove stems and set aside.
- In another pot, heat olive oil over medium heat, add the rice, and pour in 2 cups (480 ml) of cold water along with a pinch of salt. Cook until the rice is tender and water is absorbed.
- In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat and add the minced beef. Season with black pepper and chopped parsley, cooking until browned and cooked through.
- Stir in the finely chopped onion, grated carrot, minced garlic, diced zucchini, and chopped bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5–7 minutes.
- In a separate pan, sauté the peeled and crushed tomatoes with tomato paste, a bit of sugar, and a glass of hot water.
- Season the tomato sauce with dried broth, dill, and additional chopped tomatoes, mixing well.
- Preheat your oven to 220 degrees Celsius (425 degrees Fahrenheit).
- Carefully fill each cabbage leaf with the meat mixture and arrange it in your oven-safe dish.
- Pour the prepared tomato sauce over the cabbage rolls.
- Cover with foil and bake for about 50 minutes, until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded beautifully.
- Garnish with dried spring onions before serving.
Pro Tips
- For a better flavor, let the cabbage cool before filling it.
- Make sure to cook the mixture until the vegetables are just tender to maintain their texture.
- A food processor can save time in chopping vegetables evenly.
Lighter Swaps
- Substitute ground beef with lean turkey or chicken for a lighter dish.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth to cut down on salt.
Common Mistakes
- Overcooking the cabbage can lead to a mushy texture.
- Not allowing enough time for the flavors to meld in the sauce may result in a less flavorful dish.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with a light salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage Instructions
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
Reheating Tips
Reheat in the oven at 180 degrees Celsius (350 degrees Fahrenheit) for about 15 minutes until warmed through.
Nutrition Estimate
- Calories: 450
- Protein: 30g
- Carbs: 35g
- Fat: 20g
Values are estimates and may vary by ingredients and portion size.
Recipe Summary
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes
Servings: 6
Cuisine: Eastern European
Course: Main
Calories: 450
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I substitute the cabbage with another vegetable?
While cabbage is traditional, you can use collard greens or large leaves of Swiss chard.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the uncooked rolls or the already baked dish for up to three months.
How can I make this vegetarian?
Substitute the minced meat with a mix of lentils and your choice of veggies for a hearty vegetarian version.
To enjoy more quick and satisfying recipes, consider trying this quick tuna and egg dinner!