Quick "unstuffed" Sweet-And-Sour Cabbage and Beef

Submitted by Alan in SW Florida

"Good if you don't have time to fuss and make old-fashioned stuffed cabbage."

 

• Ready In: 50mins
• Ingredients: 10
• Serves: 4

ingredients

• 1 - 1 1⁄4 lb lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1 (16 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1⁄2 cup unsweetened applesauce
• 1⁄4 cup water
• 3 tablespoons cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons packed dark brown sugar
• 1⁄8 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 4 cups finely chopped green cabbage (about 1 pound)
• 1 cup cooked rice (Since the recipe calls for a small amount of cooked rice, instant rice may be used)

directions

1. In a 12-inch-wide, deep skillet or a Dutch oven, cook the ground beef and onion over medium heat, breaking up the meat with a spoon. When the meat has browned and the onion is tender, spoon off and discard any fat in the skillet.
2. Add the tomato sauce, applesauce, water, vinegar, brown sugar, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly. Stir in the cabbage, which will wilt as it cooks and become more compact.
3. Lower the heat and simmer, covered, stirring occasionally, for 25 to 30 minutes, or until cabbage is tender. Stir in the cooked rice and heat a few minutes longer, until it is cooked through. This is most easily served in bowls.

Reviews

[DrGaellon]

This was good, but the flavors were a little muted for my taste. I would use 1/3-1/2 cup each of vinegar and brown sugar. The onions should be sauteed until soft before adding the beef to minimize the raw onion bite. I used a napa cabbage, and I also added a big handful of raisins.

 

[952865]

Years ago, I had a recipe almost identical to this that was my older daughter's favorite. I add about 1/3 cup of raisins and either serve the cabbage and beef over rice or over mashed potatoes. Leftovers make a good soup--add broth, carrots and celery.