Description
This Mediterranean-Style Unstuffed Cabbage Rolls recipe offers all the comforting flavors of traditional stuffed cabbage, but in a simpler, one-pot version. Featuring ground lamb or beef, cabbage, chickpeas, and aromatic spices, this hearty dish is perfectly cooked on the stovetop and makes a flavorful family-friendly meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 lb ground lamb or beef (90% lean)
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small green cabbage (1.5 lbs), chopped
Beans and Grains
- 1 (15oz) can chickpeas, drained
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
Liquids and Tomatoes
- 1 (14.5oz) can diced tomatoes
- ¼ cup tomato paste
- 2 cups chicken broth
- ¼ cup lemon juice
Spices and Garnishes
- 2 tsp dried mint
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- ½ cup chopped parsley
- ½ cup crumbled feta (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the meat: In a deep skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground lamb or beef until browned, about 5 minutes. Drain off any excess fat to reduce greasiness.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet with the browned meat. Cook for approximately 3 minutes until they become soft and fragrant.
- Add vegetables and spices: Stir in the chopped cabbage, drained chickpeas, diced tomatoes, tomato paste, uncooked rice, chicken broth, dried mint, ground cumin, smoked paprika, and cinnamon. Mix everything thoroughly and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer the mixture: Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low, and let it simmer gently for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
- Finish and serve: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in the fresh lemon juice and chopped parsley to brighten the flavors. If desired, sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top before serving for a creamy, tangy finish.
Notes
- The recipe can be made with either ground lamb or beef depending on your preference.
- Feta cheese is optional but adds a nice tang and creaminess complementing the spices.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with extra chickpeas or lentils and use vegetable broth.
- Adjust spices to taste, especially the cinnamon and smoked paprika, to suit your flavor preference.
- Make sure to drain the chickpeas well to avoid excess liquid.
- This dish pairs well with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad.
