Delicious Ground Beef And Cabbage

Enjoy a flavorful and nutritious cabbage sauce. This delicious dish combines the richness of ground beef with the subtle sweetness of cabbage, making it a comforting and satisfying meal.

Ground Beef and Cabbage Sauce (Perfect Over Rice)

If you have only used cabbage in coleslaw, salad, or as a side for suya, get ready to be surprised by the amazing stuffed cabbage sauce. This hearty Ground Beef and Cabbage Sauce will change the way you see cabbage.

When paired with ground beef, cabbage soaks up the rich, meaty flavor, making every bite both satisfying and nourishing.

Ground beef and Cabbage can be easily adapted to different taste preferences. You can include fresh tomatoes or diced carrots, and even spices like curry powder.

The bold seasonings soak into tender cabbage leaves, which creates a delicious balance of spice, sweetness, and earthiness in every bite.

It’s Versatile!

It pairs perfectly with white rice (or any side you prefer). It is a great option for a complete meal any day of the week. I have also tried it with boiled yam, plantain, and bread.

You can use any protein of your choice like chicken, beef chunks or fish, depending on your choice.

You can also add more vegetables to bulk it up!

Why Cabbage Sauce?

• Easy to Prepare: The recipe requires only a handful of ingredients and basic cooking techniques. Even if you’re a beginner in the kitchen, you can master this dish in no time.
• Budget-Friendly: Cabbage is typically cheaper than many other vegetables, and ground beef is an affordable protein option. This meal stretches easily to feed a crowd without breaking the bank.
• Healthy: Cabbage is loaded with vitamins (C and K) and fiber. Ground beef provides protein and essential minerals like iron. Together, they create a balanced meal.
• Family-Friendly: The rich flavors appeal to kids and adults alike. You can adjust the spice level by adding or reducing peppers.

Ingredients for Making Cabbage Sauce

• Oil: Used for sautéing your veggies and ground beef.
• Ground beef: Opt for lean ground beef (80–90% lean) to reduce excess fat. Ground turkey or chicken also work if you prefer a lighter option.
• Onion: Red or white onions will work.
• Bell peppers: These are optional but add color, sweetness, and a slight crunch to your dish.
• Cloves garlic: creates a fragrant base which complements the heat from the habanero.
• Tomato paste: provides a tangy depth that enhances the overall flavor of the sauce.
• Water: used to adjust the sauce’s consistency and help cook the cabbage.
• Green cabbage: I used green cabbage because it softens well and absorbs flavors easily. Red cabbage can be used, but it will give the dish a different color and slightly different taste.

Spices and Seasonings

• Salt and Pepper: Essential for flavor.
• Paprika (2 teaspoons): Adds a mild smokiness.
• Bouillon Powder (1 teaspoon): Deepens flavor.
• Turmeric (1 teaspoon): Provides color and subtle earthiness.
• Oregano (1 teaspoon): Offers an herbal note.
• Habanero (½ minced, optional): For those who love heat. Adjust according to your spice tolerance.

How to make Cabbage Sauce

1. Prepare your cabbage by slicing into desired size, rinse, drain and set aside.
2. Cook the ground beef: heat the oil in a pan over medium heat and add the ground beef and cook until browned.
3. Add aromatics and veggies: stir in the onion and bell peppers, and cook until the vegetables are soft.
4. Add spices: add the habanero, garlic, tomato paste, paprika, oregano, bouillon powder, turmeric and. Season with salt and pepper. Add water and mix well to combine.
5. Add the cabbage to the pan. Stir to combine all the ingredients and cook for 5 to 7 minutes over medium heat, or until the cabbage is tender.
6. Garnish with parsley and serve.

Frequently asked questions about making Cabbage Sauce

1.    What type of cabbage is best for making cabbage sauce?

For making cabbage sauce, I recommend green cabbage because it softens well and absorbs flavors easily. You can also use Savoy cabbage for a milder flavor or Napa cabbage if you prefer a more delicate leaf. Red cabbage sauce will change the color and taste of your sauce.

2.    Can I prepare my Cabbage Sauce without adding beef?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian version by omitting the ground beef and using additional vegetables or plant-based protein like tofu crumbles or lentils. Adjust seasonings as needed.

3. Can I freeze Ground Beef and Cabbage?

Yes. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.

4.    How do I prevent my cabbage from becoming too soggy in my cabbage sauce?

To prevent your cabbage from becoming soggy, avoid overcooking the cabbage and ensure to add it towards the end of cooking and simmer gently, allowing it to retain some texture.

5.    What should I do if my cabbage sauce turns bitter?

Bitterness often comes from older or overcooked cabbage. Choose fresh heads of cabbage, remove any wilted outer leaves, and cook just until tender. If the dish tastes slightly bitter, balance it by adding a pinch of sugar or a tad more salt.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

• Reheating: Warm the dish in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water or stock if it seems dry. You can also reheat in the microwave; cover with a microwave-safe lid or plate to retain moisture.
• Refrigeration: Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and place them in the fridge. They will keep well for 2–3 days.
• Freezing: If you want to keep the dish longer, freeze it for up to 3 months. Always label the container with the date.

How to serve Cabbage Sauce?

You can serve your cabbage sauce in various ways depending on your preference. You can serve them as:

1. Accompaniment with your rice,whether white rice, jollof rice or fried rice, yam whether boiled or fried yam. Also, it serves as an accompaniment for your plantain, bread and even swallow dishes like pounded yam and fufu.
2. You can also serve your cabbage sauce as a side dish for your Juicy Steak, goat meat, chicken, or even fish.

Some Of Our Related Recipes You May Love

For more delicious meals and sides t, be sure to check out these recipes on our site:

• Efo Riro (Nigerian Spinach Stew) – A rich, savory stew that complements rice dishes perfectly.
• Nigerian Kebab (Suya) – Enjoy a spicy, grilled skewered meat that can be served alongside or after this hearty dish.
• Roasted Cabbage – Another way to explore the flavors of cabbage—crispy on the outside, tender on the inside.
• Salad or Coleslaw – Light, crunchy side dishes that contrast beautifully with the warmth of ground beef and cabbage.
• Chakalaka – A vibrant, spicy vegetable relish from South Africa that can add a kick to your meal

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