UNSTUFFED CABBAGE

Unstuffed Cabbage is a simplified version of traditional stuffed cabbage rolls, delivering the same delicious flavors without the extra work. This hearty, one-pot dish combines ground beef, cabbage, and rice, simmered in a savory tomato sauce. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight meal and offers all the comfort of cabbage rolls in a fraction of the time.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb ground beef (or ground turkey or pork)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 medium head of green cabbage, chopped
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1 (15 oz) can tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup beef broth (or water)
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 cup uncooked white rice (or use pre-cooked rice for faster prep)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook the beef: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
2. Add onions and garlic: Add the chopped onions to the beef and sauté for 4-5 minutes, until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the cabbage: Stir in the chopped cabbage and cook for 5-7 minutes, until it begins to soften.
4. Add the tomato mixture: Add the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, beef broth, tomato paste, Worcestershire sauce, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Add the rice: Stir in the uncooked rice. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the mixture simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage and rice are tender.

   (If using pre-cooked rice, add it during the last 5 minutes of simmering.)

6. Serve: Once the rice is cooked and the flavors have melded, remove the pot from heat. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.

This Unstuffed Cabbage is a quick and comforting meal, offering all the flavors of stuffed cabbage rolls with much less effort. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a cozy family dinner!