Description
This hearty and healthy one-pot cabbage stew with tomatoes and paprika is a comforting and budget-friendly meal, perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head green cabbage (about 2 lbs), cored and chopped
- 1 (28 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 (15 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 Tbsp sweet paprika
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 large yellow onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb lean ground beef (or other protein choice), optional
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1 tsp apple cider or red wine vinegar
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics and Protein: In a 6-quart Dutch oven, brown the protein in 2 Tbsp olive oil for 5-7 minutes until no pink remains. If the pot becomes dry, add 1-2 Tbsp broth. Add chopped onion and cook for 5 minutes until softened, then add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Wilt Cabbage and Spices: Stir in the chopped cabbage and both paprikas. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 8-10 minutes until the cabbage wilts and begins to soften.
- Simmer the Stew: Add the diced tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, and broth to the pot. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the Dutch oven and cook on low heat for 20-30 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded.
- Season and Serve: Uncover the stew and taste. Adjust salt and black pepper as needed. Stir in the 1 tsp of apple cider or red wine vinegar to brighten the flavors. Serve the comforting cabbage stew warm.
Notes
For enhanced flavor, use fire-roasted diced tomatoes and consider adding extra smoked paprika. High-quality canned broth or homemade broth is recommended. Pre-chopped onions and garlic can save prep time. Customize protein with lean ground beef/turkey, smoked sausage, or plant-based options like lentils/cannellini beans. For a low-carb option, omit potatoes and serve with cauliflower rice; for dairy-free, use vegetable broth. Fresh, crisp green cabbage is best for texture and flavor. For extra protein, increase meat or add chickpeas.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Simmering, One-Pot
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups (360 g)
- Calories: 180 calories
- Sugar: 8 g
- Sodium: 160 mg
- Fat: 9 g
- Saturated Fat: 3 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 12 g
- Fiber: 5 g
- Protein: 13 g
- Cholesterol: 38 mg
Keywords: easy dinner, one-pot, cabbage, tomato, paprika, comforting, weeknight, budget-friendly, family-friendly