Cabbage and Beef Skillet is a hearty and satisfying dish that combines the rich, savory flavors of ground beef with the tender crunch of cabbage. It is a one-pan meal that is not only efficient for weeknight dinners but also nutritious due to the inclusion of cabbage—a cruciferous vegetable known for its health benefits.
The classic dish often starts with browning ground beef in a skillet, to which onions and garlic are added for depth of flavor. Once the meat is nicely cooked and the aromatics have softened, cabbage is introduced to the mix, sometimes along with other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added color and texture. The entire combination is sautéed until the cabbage wilts down and becomes tender while still retaining a slight bite, which provides a pleasant contrast to the beef.
Seasoning plays a key role in making this dish come alive. It can range from simple salt and pepper to more robust spice mixes such as paprika, cumin, or a splash of Worcestershire sauce for umami depth. Some recipes may also include diced tomatoes or tomato sauce to create a more stew-like consistency.
One of the beauties of the Cabbage and Beef Skillet dish lies in its versatility. It can be adjusted to fit various diets, including keto by keeping it low-carb, or made with substitutions like turkey instead of beef for a lighter fare. Additionally, it’s a great template for using up leftover vegetables in the fridge, making it both economical and waste-conscious.
Cabbage and Beef Skillet Recipe
Cabbage and Beef Skillet
Equipment
- 1 large skillet
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp coconut oil
- 1 1/2 lbs ground beef lean
- 1 medium cabbage head blanched and roughly chopped
- 1 large onion chopped
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 1 cup tomatoes canned diced
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup parsley
- 1 1/2 cups cauliflower diced
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- to taste sea salt
- to taste black pepper ground
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Cook the beef, breaking up with a wooden spoon. Stir in the cabbage, onion and garlic. Continue to cook until the cabbage starts to turn golden brown and the onion and garlic are tender.
- Stir in the remaining ingredients and bring to a simmer. Cook for 10 minutes, until the sauce starts to thicken and the cauliflower “rice” is tender.
- Serve hot.
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Tips for making about Cabbage and Beef Skillet
Cooking tips
- Meat Quality: Start with good-quality ground beef; lean beef minimizes excess fat but remember that a little fat can add flavor.
- Browning the Beef: Make sure to properly brown the beef until it’s fully cooked and has a nice color before adding the cabbage. This caramelization adds depth to the dish.
- Cooking Order: Cook aromatics like onions and garlic with the beef before adding the cabbage. This layers the flavors and infuses the beef with these background notes.
- Size of Cabbage Chunks: Cut the cabbage into consistent pieces for even cooking. If you like a slightly crunchy texture, make the pieces larger; for tenderness, cut them smaller.
- Drainage: If there’s excess grease after cooking the beef, drain it to prevent the dish from becoming oily.
- Seasoning: Don’t be shy with the seasoning. Aside from salt and pepper, try paprika, cumin, or a splash of Worcestershire sauce for extra flavor.
- Cooking Cabbage: Add the cabbage after the beef is fully browned and aromatics are fragrant. Stir frequently and allow it to cook down and soften to your desired level.
- Avoid Overcooking: Cook the cabbage until it’s tender but not mushy. You’re aiming for a bit of a bite to contrast with the soft beef.
- Additional Vegetables: Consider adding other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers with the cabbage for more color, texture, and nutritional value.
- Liquid Elements: A small amount of broth or water might be needed if the skillet gets too dry. For a tomato-based version, add diced tomatoes or tomato sauce and let simmer.
Serving suggestions
- Rustic Presentation: Since it’s a one-pan meal, you can serve it straight out of the skillet if it’s presentable—this emphasizes the homey, rustic nature of the dish and can keep it warm at the table.
- Garnishes: Sprinkle finely chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill over the top for a touch of color and a burst of freshness. The vibrant green provides a nice contrast to the brown hues of the beef and cabbage.
- Bread Accompaniment: Offer warm, crusty bread on the side to sop up any delicious juices left on the plate. Bread can be served plain, buttered, or with a sprinkling of garlic powder for extra flavor.
- Sour Cream Dollop: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt can provide a creamy tanginess that contrasts nicely with the savory, earthy flavors of the dish.
- Extra Heat: For those who prefer a bit of spice, offer red pepper flakes or hot sauce on the side so guests can adjust the heat to their liking.
- Side Salad: Balance the richness of the dish with a simple side salad, such as a mixed greens salad with vinaigrette dressing, to add lightness and variety in texture.
- Plated Elegance: For a more formal presentation, plate individually by spooning a portion of the Cabbage and Beef Skillet onto each plate. Make sure each serving has a good mix of beef and vegetables.
- Vegetable Variance: If you’ve added other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers, make sure they are visible on top when serving to show off the range of colors and textures in the dish.
- Grated Cheese: For an extra layer of flavor, a sprinkle of grated cheese such as cheddar or parmesan right before serving can add a melty indulgence.
- Beverage Pairing: Serve with a beverage that complements the hearty flavors, such as a robust red wine, a stout beer, or a refreshing iced tea, depending on preference.
Top 5 FAQs about Cabbage and Beef Skillet
- What type of beef is best for this skillet? Ground beef is typically used for its quick cooking time and ability to blend well with the other ingredients. The best type of ground beef for this dish is usually a leaner cut, like 85/15, which has enough fat to add flavor without being too greasy.
- Can other types of meat be used in place of beef? Yes, other meats like ground turkey, chicken, or pork can also be used as healthier alternatives or to suit different dietary preferences. Even vegetarian crumbles can serve as a substitute for a non-meat version.
- How can I prevent the cabbage from becoming too soggy? To avoid soggy cabbage, add it towards the end of the cooking process and cook it just until it softens but still retains some bite. Keeping a higher heat and not over-covering the pan can also help to keep the texture firmer.
- Is Cabbage and Beef Skillet suitable for meal prep? Yes, it’s great for meal prep! This dish reheats well, and the flavors often meld and intensify when refrigerated and reheated. Store in airtight containers and enjoy as a quick and easy meal throughout the week.
- How can I make this dish more flavorful? Don’t hold back on the seasonings. Use a good mix of salt, pepper, garlic, and other herbs/spices like paprika or cumin. Adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, or vinegar can also enhance the depth of flavor. Experiment with fresh herbs like parsley and dill as garnishes before serving to add brightness.
The conclusion about Cabbage and Beef Skillet, as discerned from the provided context, highlights it as a comforting and versatile one-pan meal that’s hearty, nutritious, and suitable for an array of dietary preferences. This dish harmoniously marries the savory flavors of ground beef with the sweet, tender crunch of cabbage, creating a fulfilling texture and taste experience.
The diversity in preparation methods—from the browning of high-quality ground beef to the strategic addition of spices and seasoning—underscores the dish’s capacity to suit various palatable desires. Ingredients like paprika, cumin, and Worcestershire sauce add distinct layers of flavor, while additional vegetables contribute not only nutritional value but also splashes of color to the dish’s presentation.