A warm, nourishing stew can be the perfect meal to bring comfort to any day, and this Hearty Cabbage and Minced Meat Stew certainly fits the bill. Full of rich flavors from tender minced meat and cabbage, this hearty dish combines simple, affordable ingredients to create a satisfying meal that will fill you up. The addition of carrots, tomatoes, and a flavorful seasoning blend makes each bite delicious. Perfect for a family dinner or meal prepping, this stew is versatile and easy to make.
Let’s dive into the ingredients and the step-by-step process that brings this delicious stew together.
Ingredients
Vegetables
- Medium onion: 1, peeled and finely chopped
- Carrots: 2, peeled and thinly sliced
- Cherry tomatoes (or 1 regular tomato): 8-10 cherry tomatoes or 1 medium-sized tomato, diced
- Garlic cloves: 2, peeled and minced
- Cabbage: 450g (1 lb), shredded
Meat and Seasoning
- Minced meat: 450g (1 lb)
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon
- Black pepper: 1/2 teaspoon
- Paprika: 1/2 teaspoon
Other Ingredients
- Tomato sauce: 250ml (1 cup)
- Fresh parsley: For garnish
This stew can be customized in a variety of ways to suit your personal preferences or dietary restrictions. You can substitute ingredients or add different vegetables to suit your taste or what you have on hand.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
Start by prepping your vegetables so that everything is ready to go when you begin cooking. Proper prep helps speed up the cooking process and ensures that you don’t forget any ingredients.
- Chop the onion: Peel and finely chop the medium onion. The onion adds a sweet and savory base for the stew.
- Slice the carrots: Peel and thinly slice the carrots into rounds or small sticks. The carrots bring a slight sweetness to the stew, balancing the other savory flavors.
- Dice the tomatoes: If you’re using cherry tomatoes, slice them in half. If you prefer regular tomatoes, dice them into small pieces. Tomatoes will add a burst of freshness and a little tanginess to the stew.
- Mince the garlic: Peel and finely mince the garlic cloves. Garlic is the perfect aromatic to elevate the overall flavor profile of the stew.
- Shred the cabbage: Remove the outer leaves of the cabbage, slice it in half, and then thinly shred the cabbage. The cabbage is the star of this stew, becoming tender and flavorful as it simmers with the other ingredients.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Carrots
Once your vegetables are prepped, it’s time to get cooking. In a large skillet or pot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Olive oil adds a rich, slightly fruity flavor that complements the vegetables beautifully.
- Cook the onion and carrots: Add the chopped onion and sliced carrots to the pan. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal here is to soften the vegetables and release their flavors. As the onions become translucent and the carrots soften, the base of the stew starts to come together.
Step 3: Cook the Minced Meat
Now that your vegetables have softened, it’s time to add the minced meat. You can use any ground meat you prefer. If you want a leaner stew, feel free to use ground turkey or chicken instead.
- Add the garlic: Once the onions and carrots are soft, add the minced garlic to the pan. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally until the garlic becomes fragrant. Garlic infuses the oil and vegetables with its aromatic, savory flavor.
- Add the minced meat: Add the 450g of minced meat to the pan. Break the meat up with a spatula or wooden spoon to ensure it cooks evenly. Stir occasionally and cook for about 8-10 minutes, or until the meat is browned all over. The browned meat adds a rich, hearty flavor to the stew that pairs perfectly with the vegetables.
- Season the meat: Once the meat is browned, stir in 1/2 teaspoon of salt, 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon of paprika. This seasoning combination enhances the savory depth of the meat and vegetables. You can adjust the seasoning later, but it’s a good idea to start with this base.
Step 4: Add the Tomatoes and Cabbage
Once the meat is browned and seasoned, it’s time to add the tomatoes and cabbage to the pot.
- Stir in the tomatoes: Add the cherry tomatoes or diced regular tomato to the pan. Stir the tomatoes into the mixture and cook for another 3-4 minutes. As they soften, the tomatoes will release their juices, adding a sweet and slightly tangy flavor to the stew.
- Add the cabbage: Stir in the shredded cabbage. Mix the cabbage with the other vegetables and meat, ensuring it’s well distributed throughout. The cabbage will shrink as it cooks, releasing moisture and soaking up the flavors of the stew.
Step 5: Add Tomato Sauce and Simmer
With the vegetables and meat well combined, it’s time to add the tomato sauce and let everything cook together.
- Pour in the tomato sauce: Add 250ml (1 cup) of tomato sauce to the pan. The tomato sauce adds moisture to the stew and helps create a flavorful broth. Stir everything together until evenly combined.
- Simmer: Lower the heat to a simmer and cover the pan. Let the stew simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The cabbage should become tender and the flavors should meld together beautifully. This simmering process allows the cabbage to soak up all the savory juices from the meat, tomatoes, and seasonings.
Step 6: Serve
Once the stew has simmered and all the ingredients are tender and flavorful, it’s time to serve!
- Taste and adjust seasoning: After the stew has simmered, taste it and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You may want to add a pinch more salt or pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Garnish and serve: Garnish the stew with freshly chopped parsley for a burst of freshness and color. The parsley adds a hint of brightness that contrasts nicely with the rich, savory stew.
Helpful Tips
- Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a bit of heat, add 1/4 teaspoon of chili flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the stew. These spices will bring a subtle kick without overpowering the other flavors.
- Make it vegetarian: If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can substitute the minced meat with lentils or plant-based meat alternatives. Lentils provide a similar texture to minced meat, and they soak up the flavors of the stew beautifully. You can also add more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms to give the stew extra body.
- Serve with sides: This dish pairs beautifully with rice, mashed potatoes, or even a slice of rustic bread to soak up the sauce. You could also serve it with a side salad for a light and refreshing contrast.
Substitutions and Variations
- Meat alternatives: For a lighter option, you can use turkey or chicken mince instead of beef. These alternatives will work well but may produce a leaner stew.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add additional vegetables such as parsnips, leeks, or bell peppers to increase the flavor complexity. These vegetables bring a touch of sweetness and texture to the stew.
- Spice it up: For a different flavor profile, you could add herbs like thyme or bay leaves during the simmering step. A pinch of cumin or coriander could also give the stew a slight earthy flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this stew ahead of time?
Yes, this stew actually tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together. The cabbage will continue to soak up the rich, savory broth, making the stew even more flavorful. Simply store the leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze this stew?
Yes, this stew freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw and heat it on the stove. The stew may thicken slightly after freezing, so feel free to add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
How can I make this stew richer?
To make the stew richer, you can add a tablespoon of butter or cream just before serving. This will give the stew a silky, smooth texture and a richer mouthfeel.
Nutritional Benefits
- Rich in protein: The minced meat provides a substantial amount of protein, which is essential for muscle growth and repair.
- Packed with vegetables: Cabbage, carrots, and tomatoes are rich in fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants. Fiber helps with digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.
- Cabbage benefits: Cabbage is an excellent source of vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that helps boost the immune system.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-free: No gluten-containing ingredients.
- Dairy-free: This recipe contains no dairy.
- Low-carb option: Skip the rice and serve with a low-carb vegetable side like cauliflower rice for a lighter dish.
Nutritional Facts (per serving, approximately 4 servings)
- Calories: 290
- Protein: 23g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 7g
Storage
- Room temperature: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Thaw and reheat on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Conclusion
This hearty cabbage and minced meat stew is a filling, comforting dish that’s full of flavor and nutrients. It’s perfect for meal prep or a cozy family dinner. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it’s a meal that’s sure to satisfy. Whether you stick to the basic recipe or make your own adjustments, this stew will become a go-to favorite.