Cabbage Stew Recipe

Hey food lovers! Ever find yourself in the mood for something cozy and hearty that also uses up that head of cabbage sitting in your fridge? Let me introduce you to this scrumptious cabbage stew – it’s like a hug in a bowl, and it’s super versatile, too: perfect for those chill nights when you just want to curl up with something delicious.

Cabbage stew is one of my favorite things to make because it’s a hearty meal that’s chock full of important nutrients. The combination of cabbage with carrots and potatoes in a beef broth with a hint of tomato makes what I think is a wonderfully comforting dish.

I love the addition of paprika and thyme because they give it such a delightful depth of flavor. And this dish is very versatile: you can easily include ground beef or turkey in it for even more protein.

Ingredients

• Olive Oil: Healthy fat, adds richness.
• Onion: Adds sweetness and depth.
• Garlic: Boosts flavor, supports immunity.
• Ground Beef: Protein source, adds richness.
• Cabbage: High fiber, digestive health.
• Broth: Savory base, enhances flavor.
• Diced Tomatoes: Adds acidity, lycopene-rich.
• Carrots: Adds sweetness, rich in beta-carotene.
• Potatoes: Provides carbohydrates, comforting texture.
• Paprika: Smoky, adds warmth and color.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Brightens flavors, adds tang.

Ingredient Quantities

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ground beef or turkey (optional)
• 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
• 4 cups beef or vegetable broth
• 1 can (14 ounces) diced tomatoes
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 potatoes, diced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish

How to Make this

1. In a large pot over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.

2. If you are using ground beef or turkey, add it to the pot. Cook until it is well browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.

3. In the pot, add the chopped-up cabbage, and give it a good stir to mix it up with the onions, the garlic, and the meat. Let those ingredients hang out together for about 5 minutes, and then come back and check on them. You want the cabbage to be softened but not completely wilted.

4. Add the beef or vegetable broth, totaling 4 cups, to the skillet. Then, add 1 can (14 1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes with their juice, 2 cups sliced carrots, and 2 1/2 cups diced potatoes.

5. Dust with the paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well with the tomato paste.

6. Put the bay leaf into the pot, and heat the stew until it reaches a rolling boil.

7. After reaching a boil, lower the heat to low, then cover the pot and simmer it for 30 to 40 minutes. Wait until the vegetables are tender.

8. Take out the bay leaf that was in the stew. Add the vinegar from apples to deepen the flavor.

9. Sample text: Seasoning that is to taste. Adjust with more salt if needed. Adjust with more pepper if needed.

10. Distribute the stew in piping hot portions, and top with freshly minced parsley, if you like, for a bit of pizzazz. Then, dig in!

Equipment Needed

1. Large pot
2. Wooden spoon or spatula
3. Knife for chopping
4. Cutting board
5. Measuring spoons
6. Measuring cups
7. Can opener
8. Stirring spoon
9. Ladle

FAQ

• Can I make this cabbage stew vegetarian?
  Yes, simply omit the ground beef or turkey and use vegetable broth instead of beef broth.
• How can I thicken the stew?
  You can thicken the stew by reducing the liquid through simmering or by adding a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with cold water.
• Can I add other vegetables to the stew?
  Absolutely, feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, celery, or zucchini for added flavor and nutrition.
• How long does the stew need to cook?
  The stew should simmer for about 30 to 45 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors are well combined.
• Can this recipe be made in a slow cooker?
  Yes, you can transfer the browned meat and onion mixture to a slow cooker, add the rest of the ingredients, and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
• Is it possible to freeze the cabbage stew?
  Yes, the stew can be frozen for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before freezing in airtight containers.
• What can I substitute for apple cider vinegar?
  You can use white vinegar or lemon juice as a substitute for apple cider vinegar in this recipe.

Cabbage Stew Recipe Substitutions and Variations

Substitutions for ground beef or turkey:

For a vegetarian option, use ground chicken or lentils.
A vegetarian alternative can be made using vegetable broth in place of the beef broth.
Substituted for can be crushed tomatoes or fresh tomatoes that have been peeled and diced. They can also be used in doing the same.
Replace potatoes with sweet potatoes to give a different flavor profile.
White vinegar or lemon juice can be used as a substitute for apple cider vinegar and will provide the same amount of tang.

Pro Tips

1. Brown the Meat Well If you’re using ground beef or turkey, ensure it’s well browned before adding the cabbage. This caramelization adds depth and richness to the stew’s flavor.

2. Layer the Seasoning Season the onions and garlic with a little salt while sautéing to draw out their moisture and enhance their natural sweetness. This step builds flavor from the start.

3. Deglaze with Vinegar Before adding the broth, use half of the apple cider vinegar to deglaze the pan, scraping up any flavorful browned bits. This adds acidity and extra flavor to the stew.

4. Adjust Consistency If you prefer a thicker stew, mash some of the cooked potatoes and carrots during the simmering process. This releases their starches, naturally thickening the broth without the need for flour or cornstarch.

5. Rest the Stew For best results, let the stew rest off the heat for 10-15 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and enhances the overall taste experience.