Hearty Cabbage and Meat Bake

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This hearty Cabbage and Meat Bake recipe brings together the savory richness of ground pork and beef with the subtle sweetness of cabbage, creating a dish that’s both delicious and satisfying. Perfect for a comforting dinner, this recipe is a testament to the magic that happens when simple ingredients come together. Let’s dive into making this flavorful dish that’s sure to become a favorite at your table.

Ingredients:

  • 1 kg (2.2 lb) of ground pork and beef mix: For a rich and flavorful base.
  • 250 g (0.55 lb) white cabbage, finely shredded: Adds texture and a hint of sweetness.
  • 1 onion, finely chopped: For a base of savory flavor.
  • 2 eggs: Bind the ingredients together.
  • Green onion, chopped: For garnish and a burst of freshness.
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika: Adds depth and a smoky flavor.
  • 1 teaspoon of dried garlic: For a hint of garlicy warmth.
  • 2-3 potatoes, thinly sliced: Adds heartiness to the dish.
  • A few pickled cucumbers, sliced: For tang and crunch.
  • 200 g (0.44 lbs) cheese, grated: For a gooey, melty topping.
  • Mayonnaise: Drizzled over the top for creamy richness.
  • 2 carrots, grated: Adds sweetness and color.
  • 3-4 cloves of garlic, minced: For a bold garlic flavor.

Preparation:

  1. Preheat Oven: Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (356°F).
  2. Mix the Meat Base: In a large bowl, combine the ground pork and beef mix, finely shredded cabbage, chopped onion, eggs, smoked paprika, dried garlic, and salt and pepper to taste. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
  3. Layer the Bake: Grease a large baking dish with a bit of oil. Start by laying the thinly sliced potatoes at the bottom of the dish as a base. Spread the meat and cabbage mixture evenly over the potatoes. Add a layer of grated carrots and sliced pickled cucumbers on top.
  4. Add Cheese and Mayonnaise: Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly over the top layer. Drizzle mayonnaise across the cheese in a grid pattern or as desired.
  5. Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 45-60 minutes, or until the meat is cooked through, the potatoes are tender, and the cheese is golden and bubbly.
  6. Garnish: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with chopped green onions and minced garlic for an extra burst of flavor.
  7. Serve: This Hearty Cabbage and Meat Bake can be served hot, directly from the oven, alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Conclusion:

Combining the hearty flavors of meat and the subtle sweetness of cabbage and carrots, this Hearty Cabbage and Meat Bake is a comfort food dish that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for leftovers that taste even better the next day, this recipe is sure to delight. Enjoy the process of creating this warm, flavorful bake and the comfort it brings to your dinner table.