Cabbage and ground beef have been used together in recipes for many years. This pairing is popular because it’s easy to cook, affordable, and delicious. The mix of soft, cooked cabbage and seasoned ground beef creates a comforting dish that can be made in many ways, from casseroles to stir-fries. Whether you’re looking for a quick dinner or a hearty meal to feed a family, cabbage and ground beef recipes are a great choice.
History and Origin Of Cabbage and Ground Beef Recipes
The combination of cabbage and meat has been a staple in different cultures for a long time. Cabbage is a hardy vegetable that can grow in various climates and can last for a long time when stored properly. It was especially popular in countries where the winters were long and harsh, like Russia, Germany, and parts of Eastern Europe. Cabbage provided a source of vitamins when fresh vegetables were scarce.
Ground beef, on the other hand, became more common in the late 19th century when meat grinders were invented. Before that, meat was usually eaten in larger cuts. Ground beef became a popular choice because it was cheaper than other cuts of meat and could be used in many different recipes.
In Eastern Europe, stuffed cabbage rolls became a traditional dish. Ground meat (often beef or pork) was mixed with rice and wrapped in cabbage leaves, then simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce. This dish spread to other parts of the world, with different regions adding their own twists.
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Cabbage and Ground Beef Recipes
Course: MainCuisine: Eastern EuropeDifficulty: Easy6
servings15
minutes45
minutes228
kcalThis ground beef and cabbage recipe was my mother’s. She was a country cook, plain and simple. But as I have traveled and worked and experienced foods from around the world, I look back and realize that many of the dishes she prepared, while simple, were perfect for that moment.
Ingredients
1 large head cabbage, finely chopped
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes with juice
1 onion, halved and thinly sliced
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
salt and ground black pepper to taste
1 pound lean ground beef
Directions
- Place cabbage, tomatoes with juice, onion, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper into a Dutch oven or large pot over low heat; cook and stir until it begins to simmer.
- Add lean ground beef on top; cover and cook, stirring occasionally, until cabbage is tender and ground beef is cooked through, about 45 minutes.
Notes
- Do not cook and drain your meat; most of the taste will leave. I use 90/10 ground beef for this recipe.