This Ground Beef and Cabbage recipe is a savory, simple, and hearty dish perfect for a cozy dinner. Packed with flavor, it’s a great option for those looking for a low-carb, nutritious meal that’s also easy to prepare.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 medium head cabbage, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1/2 cup water
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Directions
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Sprinkle in the paprika, salt, and pepper, stirring to coat the beef mixture.
- Add the chopped cabbage, Worcestershire sauce, beef broth, and water to the skillet. Stir everything together.
- Cover and let simmer for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded.
- Adjust seasoning to taste and serve hot.
Nutrients
- Calories: 250 kcal
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 7g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Cholesterol: 50mg
The Nutritional Value of Ground Beef and Cabbage
Ground beef and cabbage are two ingredients that provide substantial nutritional benefits. Ground beef is a rich source of protein, which is essential for muscle building, tissue repair, and overall health. Additionally, beef is high in essential vitamins and minerals such as iron, zinc, and B vitamins, particularly B12, which is crucial for nerve function and the production of red blood cells.
Cabbage, on the other hand, is a low-calorie vegetable that is packed with nutrients. It is an excellent source of vitamin K, vitamin C, and folate. It also contains fiber, which is important for digestive health and regulating blood sugar levels. The combination of ground beef and cabbage creates a well-rounded meal that provides protein, fiber, and a variety of micronutrients that support overall health.
A Perfect Low-Carb, High-Protein Meal
For those following low-carb or ketogenic diets, ground beef and cabbage is an ideal meal. Cabbage is a great substitute for more carb-heavy vegetables like potatoes, and it pairs wonderfully with the richness of ground beef. This dish is naturally low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for individuals who are trying to reduce their carb intake while still enjoying a delicious and satisfying meal.
In addition to being low in carbs, ground beef and cabbage are also high in protein, which helps keep you feeling fuller for longer. This makes it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain or lose weight while ensuring they are consuming enough nutrients.
Health Benefits of Ground Beef and Cabbage
This dish not only satisfies your hunger but also promotes health in many ways. Let’s take a closer look at some of the key health benefits of its ingredients.
Ground Beef Benefits
Ground beef is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is vital for muscle growth and repair. Protein also plays a crucial role in the production of hormones and enzymes that regulate bodily functions. Additionally, ground beef is rich in heme iron, a form of iron that is easily absorbed by the body and is essential for oxygen transport in the blood. Iron is particularly important for women and individuals who are prone to anemia.
The zinc found in ground beef also contributes to a healthy immune system, promotes wound healing, and supports normal growth and development. The presence of B vitamins, especially B12, helps maintain energy levels and supports the nervous system.
Cabbage Benefits
Cabbage is a powerhouse of vitamins and minerals. It is a great source of vitamin K, which is essential for bone health and proper blood clotting. Vitamin K also plays a role in regulating calcium levels in the body. Cabbage is also rich in vitamin C, an antioxidant that supports the immune system, promotes healthy skin, and helps the body absorb iron more effectively.
Cabbage contains fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health. Fiber helps regulate bowel movements, prevents constipation, and can reduce the risk of digestive disorders such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). It also supports weight management by keeping you feeling full and satisfied after meals.
How to Make Ground Beef and Cabbage a Versatile Dish
While the basic recipe for ground beef and cabbage is already simple and tasty, there are numerous ways to add variety to this dish. By experimenting with different spices, vegetables, and cooking techniques, you can create unique flavor profiles to suit your personal preferences.
Spices and Seasonings
One way to enhance the flavor of your ground beef and cabbage is by experimenting with different spices and seasonings. For a Mediterranean twist, try adding oregano, basil, and thyme. If you prefer a more Asian-inspired flavor, ginger, soy sauce, and sesame oil are great additions. A bit of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes can provide some heat if you enjoy spicy dishes.
For a smoky and savory depth of flavor, smoked paprika can be used in place of regular paprika. Experimenting with different combinations of herbs and spices allows you to customize the dish to your liking and keep it fresh every time you make it.
Adding Other Vegetables
While cabbage is the main vegetable in this dish, you can add other vegetables to increase the nutritional value and add more variety. Bell peppers, carrots, zucchini, and spinach are all great additions that pair well with the savory beef and cabbage. Simply chop the vegetables and add them to the skillet along with the cabbage, allowing them to cook down and become tender.
Adding extra vegetables not only boosts the nutrient content of the dish but also provides different textures and flavors, making it even more enjoyable.
Toppings and Sides
Ground beef and cabbage can be served with a variety of sides to create a more complete meal. A side of cauliflower rice or mashed cauliflower makes for a low-carb alternative to traditional rice or potatoes. If you want a heartier option, you can pair the dish with roasted potatoes, a fresh salad, or even a slice of homemade bread.
You can also top the dish with grated cheese or sour cream for added richness. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro can provide a fresh, vibrant contrast to the savory flavors of the beef and cabbage.
Ground Beef and Cabbage: A Budget-Friendly Meal
Another great aspect of this dish is its affordability. Ground beef is often less expensive than other cuts of beef, and cabbage is a cost-effective vegetable that is available year-round. This makes it an ideal choice for families on a budget who still want to eat nutritious, satisfying meals. You can buy the ingredients in bulk and prepare enough servings to feed the entire family for multiple days.
The simplicity and cost-effectiveness of this recipe make it perfect for meal prepping. You can cook a large batch and store it in the fridge or freezer for later use. This allows you to have a nutritious meal on hand, even on busy days when you don’t have time to cook.
How to Make the Dish in Advance
Meal prepping is a great way to save time and ensure that you always have a healthy meal ready to go. To make ground beef and cabbage in advance, simply prepare the dish as you normally would and store it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep for up to 4 days in the refrigerator. If you want to store the dish for a longer period, you can freeze it. After the dish has cooled, transfer it to a freezer-safe container and store it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until it’s hot.
Conclusion
Ground beef and cabbage is a flavorful, nutritious, and versatile dish that offers many benefits. From its high protein content to its rich array of vitamins and minerals, this dish is a great option for anyone looking to eat a healthy, low-carb meal. Its affordability and ease of preparation make it an ideal choice for busy families, while the possibility of customizing it with different spices and vegetables allows for endless variations. Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight dinner, a meal prep option, or a budget-friendly dish, ground beef and cabbage should be at the top of your list.