Savory Cabbage and Ground Meat Bake

This dish elevates the humble cabbage to new heights by combining it with flavorful ground meat, aromatic spices, and a touch of tomato paste. The result is a comforting, savory bake that’s as delicious as it is simple to prepare. Perfect for a wholesome dinner, this recipe promises a hearty meal that will please everyone at the table. Let’s dive into the steps to create this delightful dish.

Ingredients:

• 400g minced pork or beef (choose based on preference)
• 1 medium young cabbage, chopped
• 1 onion, fried until golden
• 3 tablespoons tomato paste
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
• Parsley, chopped, to taste
• 1.5 teaspoons salt, divided
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon Provençal herbs
• 4 tablespoons breadcrumbs
• 4 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1/2 liter vegetable broth

Preparation:

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (350°F). Prepare a baking dish by lightly greasing it with a bit of vegetable oil.
2. Prepare the Cabbage:
   • Chop the cabbage into thin strips or chunks, according to your preference. Blanch in boiling water for about 3-4 minutes, then drain. This softens the cabbage and enhances its sweetness.
3. Cook the Meat Mixture:
   • In a skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the minced pork or beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned.
   • Stir in the fried onion, minced garlic, tomato paste, sweet paprika, Provençal herbs, 1 teaspoon of salt, and black pepper. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Combine Cabbage and Meat:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the blanched cabbage with the meat mixture. Add the chopped parsley and adjust the seasoning with more salt if necessary.
5. Assemble the Bake:
   • Transfer the cabbage and meat mixture to the prepared baking dish, spreading it evenly.
   • Sprinkle the breadcrumbs over the top for a crunchy crust and drizzle with the remaining 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil.
   • Pour the vegetable broth over the mixture. This will help keep the bake moist while cooking.
6. Bake:
   • Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for about 40 minutes. Then, remove the foil and bake for another 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden and crispy.
7. Serve:
   • Let the bake rest for a few minutes before serving. This dish is hearty enough to stand on its own or can be served with a side of mashed potatoes or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Conclusion:

Combining eggs and ground meat with cabbage creates a dish that is both comforting and full of flavor. This Savory Cabbage and Ground Meat Bake is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients coming together to create something delicious. Perfect for a cozy family dinner, this dish is sure to become a new favorite. Enjoy the warmth and depth of flavors in every bite!