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Introduction
Imagine the rich aroma of caramelized cabbage paired with seasoned ground beef—the ultimate comfort food with a Middle Eastern twist. This recipe is affordable, family-friendly, and infused with bold flavors using simple ingredients like baharat spice. If you’re searching for “ground beef and cabbage recipes,” this dish deserves a spot on your dinner table.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavor Explosion: Warm spices like baharat, cumin, and coriander bring complexity, while caramelized vegetables add natural sweetness.
- Perfect Texture: Tender ground beef combined with soft, slightly crispy cabbage creates a beautifully balanced bite.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in under an hour, with straightforward instructions anyone can follow.
- Budget-Friendly: Uses basic, accessible ingredients, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or meal-prepping.
Ingredients
- 1 large yellow onion
- 4 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (divided)
- 2 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1 teaspoon cumin (divided)
- 1/2 teaspoon baharat
- 1/2 teaspoon coriander
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- Kosher salt
- Freshly-ground black pepper
- 1 small green cabbage (cored and shredded)
- 3 carrots (shredded)
- 1 teaspoon white wine vinegar
- 2 scallions (trimmed and chopped, both whites and green parts)
- 3 tablespoons chopped parsley
Ingredient Notes & Substitutions
- Protein Alternatives: Swap ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based crumbles to suit your dietary needs.
- Vegetable Variations: For a twist, replace green cabbage with napa cabbage, bok choy, or savoy cabbage.
- Baharat Substitute: If you can’t find baharat, mix paprika, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and black pepper for a homemade blend.
- Cooking Oil Options: Use avocado oil or canola oil as substitutes for olive oil without compromising flavor.
How to Make Ground Beef and Cabbage
Prep the Onion
Peel and halve the onion. Finely chop one half and set it aside for the meat. Thinly slice the other half and reserve separately.
Sauté the Onion
In a large heavy braising pan with a lid, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and fragrant but not browned. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
Cook the Ground Beef
Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it into small pieces using a wooden spoon. Cook, stirring occasionally until fully browned, about 7 to 10 minutes. Drain any excess water or fat. Season the beef with half the cumin, baharat, coriander, paprika, kosher salt, and freshly-ground black pepper. Transfer the cooked beef to a plate and set it aside.
Sauté the Vegetables
Return the pan to the stove and heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onion, shredded cabbage, carrots, the remaining cumin, plus kosher salt and freshly-ground black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
If you love exploring seasonal vegetable recipes, try pairing this dish with a refreshing shaved Brussels sprout and pear salad.
Cover and Steam
Cover the pan for 3 to 5 minutes to help the cabbage release its water and wilt quickly. Uncover and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the cabbage develops caramelized spots, approximately 15 minutes. For a hearty complement to your meal, consider serving alongside autumn harvest grain salad with sweet potato.
Finish and Serve
Return the cooked beef to the pan and toss to combine. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, just until the meat is warmed through. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the white wine vinegar, chopped scallions, and parsley. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve immediately.
Adjusting Spice Levels for Your Palate
- For a milder flavor, reduce the quantity of baharat or omit it altogether.
- Craving spice? Add a pinch of chili flakes or cayenne pepper for extra heat.
What Is Baharat?
Definition: Baharat is a Middle Eastern spice blend featuring warm, earthy flavors from pepper, paprika, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and more.
Usage Tip: Baharat is perfect for seasoning ground beef, chicken, and vegetarian dishes alike.
Shopping: You can find baharat in specialty stores or purchase it online.
Pro Tips & Troubleshooting
Pro Tips
- Use a heavy braising pan for even heat distribution and the best caramelization results.
- Caramelize your cabbage thoroughly for a sweet and smoky depth of flavor.
- Brighten the dish by adding white wine vinegar at the very end—it balances the rich flavors perfectly.
- Don’t over-stir the beef while browning to allow a deeply seared texture to develop.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcrowding the pan: This can prevent proper browning and lead to steaming.
- Excess fat: Always drain the beef to avoid a greasy dish.
- Undercooked cabbage: Ensure the cabbage gets caramelized for maximum flavor.
- Skipping vinegar: Omitting the vinegar can result in flat-tasting vegetables.
Serving & Storage
Serving Ideas
- Pair this dish with crusty bread or flatbread for a filling meal.
- If you’re a fan of Mediterranean flavors, add a side of Mediterranean roasted vegetables for additional depth.
- Serve it over a bed of rice if you want something more substantial.
Storage & Make-Ahead
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: You can freeze this dish for up to 2 months—just reheat it in a skillet to retain its texture.
- Meal-Prep Idea: Prepare this ahead of time and refrigerate for quick, easy weekday lunches or dinners.
FAQ
What is baharat?
Baharat is a Middle Eastern spice blend typically made from pepper, paprika, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and other spices. It can be found in specialty stores or online.
Can I substitute another protein for ground beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey, chicken, or plant-based alternatives like tofu crumbles work wonderfully as substitutes.
How do I ensure my cabbage is caramelized?
Cook the cabbage uncovered over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until lightly browned and aromatic. The key is patience and even cooking.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, you can replace ground beef with tofu crumbles, tempeh, or lentils for a vegetarian option!
What other vegetables can I substitute for cabbage?
Napa cabbage, bok choy, kale, or Brussels sprouts are fantastic alternatives to try for unique textures and flavors.
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Ground Beef and Cabbage Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Peel and halve the onion. Finely chop one half and set it aside for the meat. Thinly slice the other half and reserve separately.
- In a large heavy braising pan with a lid, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until soft and fragrant but not browned. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds.
- Add the ground beef to the pan, breaking it into small pieces using a wooden spoon. Cook, stirring occasionally until fully browned, about 7 to 10 minutes. Drain any excess water or fat. Season the beef with half the cumin, baharat, coriander, paprika, kosher salt, and freshly-ground black pepper. Transfer the cooked beef to a plate and set it aside.
- Return the pan to the stove and heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onion, shredded cabbage, carrots, the remaining cumin, plus kosher salt and freshly-ground black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Cover the pan for 3 to 5 minutes to help the cabbage release its water and wilt quickly. Uncover and continue cooking, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender and the cabbage develops caramelized spots, approximately 15 minutes.
- Return the cooked beef to the pan and toss to combine. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes, just until the meat is warmed through. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the white wine vinegar, chopped scallions, and parsley. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve immediately.