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:
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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!