Description
Mediterranean-Style Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls offer a quick, wholesome twist on traditional cabbage rolls, featuring tender chopped cabbage, seasoned ground meat, rice, and vibrant Mediterranean flavors such as garlic, lemon, and fresh herbs. This comforting one-pan dish is perfect for a nutritious weeknight dinner without the hassle of rolling individual cabbage leaves.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 lb ground beef or lamb (or a mix)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 head green cabbage, chopped (about 5–6 cups)
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup tomato paste
- 1/2 cup long grain white rice (uncooked)
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or mint (for garnish)
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute to release its aroma.
- Cook Meat: Add the ground beef or lamb to the skillet and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Once fully browned, drain any excess fat from the pan to keep the dish balanced.
- Season the Mixture: Stir in ground cinnamon, dried oregano, ground cumin, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly to coat the meat evenly with the spices.
- Add Cabbage: Incorporate the chopped cabbage into the skillet and sauté for about 5 minutes until it begins to soften, allowing it to blend with the seasoned meat and absorb flavors.
- Combine Remaining Ingredients: Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato paste, uncooked rice, and low-sodium broth. Mix everything well to combine all ingredients.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the skillet with a lid and reduce heat to low. Let it cook for 25–30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and the cabbage is fully cooked.
- Finish and Garnish: Remove from heat and stir in the fresh lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or mint before serving.
Notes
- For enhanced flavor, add a handful of kalamata olives into the dish or top with crumbled feta cheese before serving.
- Brown rice can be substituted for white rice; however, increase cooking time and broth quantity accordingly to ensure the rice cooks properly.
- This recipe is naturally gluten-free, but always check labels if using packaged ingredients.
