Beef and Cabbage Stew is a dependable, slow-simmered meal that delivers warmth, balance, and deep flavor without complicated steps. Built with tender beef, simple vegetables, and a rich broth, this dish fits naturally into weeknight dinners or relaxed weekend cooking. It relies on patience rather than technique, making it ideal for home cooks who value reliable results. Each spoonful offers soft vegetables, savory beef, and a comforting texture that feels familiar and satisfying. This recipe reflects traditional American stew cooking, where straightforward ingredients transform into something memorable through time and care.
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Beef and Cabbage Stew: A Hearty One-Pot Classic
- Total Time: 2 hours 10 minutes
- Yield: 6–8 servings
Description
A hearty American-style stew made with tender beef, cabbage, potatoes, and vegetables simmered in a savory broth.
Ingredients
1½ pounds beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch pieces
2 beef bouillon cubes
1 cup hot water
1 large onion, chopped
¼ teaspoon black pepper
1 bay leaf
2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
2 celery stalks, sliced
4 cups shredded green cabbage
1 medium carrot, sliced
1 cup tomato sauce
Salt, to taste
Instructions
1. Heat a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium heat. Add the beef and cook until browned on all sides. Drain off excess fat.
2. In a small bowl, dissolve the bouillon cubes in the hot water. Pour this mixture over the beef.
3. Add the chopped onion, black pepper, and bay leaf. Cover and let simmer gently for about 1¼ hours, or until the beef is tender.
4. Stir in the potatoes, celery, cabbage, and carrot. Cover again and simmer for 30 minutes, until the vegetables are soft.
5. Add the tomato sauce and salt to taste. Simmer uncovered for another 15–20 minutes to slightly thicken the stew.
6. Remove and discard the bay leaf before serving.
Notes
For best flavor, allow the stew to rest for 10 minutes before serving. This dish reheats well and is ideal for leftovers.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
- Category: Soups & Stews
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
H2: Why Beef and Cabbage Stew Belongs on Your Table
H3: Beef and Cabbage Stew as comfort-driven home cooking
This stew delivers steady heat and nourishment, making it especially welcome during colder months. The combination of beef and cabbage creates a filling dish that feels substantial without being heavy. It suits family meals where everyone wants something familiar and grounding.
H3: Beef and Cabbage Stew made with simple pantry staples
Most ingredients are easy to find and affordable. Bouillon, onion, potatoes, and cabbage form a dependable base that does not rely on specialty items. If you enjoy classic soups, you may also appreciate recipes like this Tuscan white bean and sausage soup for similar comfort-focused cooking.
H3: Beef and Cabbage Stew for family-style meals
This dish scales well and holds its quality when kept warm. It works for shared dinners where one pot feeds several people without stress.
H2: Choosing Ingredients for Beef and Cabbage Stew
H3: Beef and Cabbage Stew starts with the right beef cut
Stew meat cut into even pieces ensures consistent cooking. The slow simmer breaks down connective tissue, producing tender bites that stay juicy rather than dry.
H3: Beef and Cabbage Stew benefits from fresh vegetables
Green cabbage, carrots, celery, and potatoes soften gradually while keeping their structure. Fresh vegetables provide sweetness and balance against the savory broth.
H3: Beef and Cabbage Stew flavor built with bouillon and tomato
Bouillon cubes add depth without extra steps, while tomato sauce gives body and gentle acidity. If you enjoy brothy meals with a warming profile, you might also explore this turmeric chicken noodle soup for a different but equally soothing option.
H2: How to Cook Beef and Cabbage Stew Perfectly
H3: Beef and Cabbage Stew browning for deep flavor
Browning the beef first is essential. It creates a savory base that carries through the entire dish and prevents a flat-tasting broth.
H3: Beef and Cabbage Stew slow simmer technique
A gentle simmer allows flavors to develop without toughening the meat. Covering the pot during the first stage preserves moisture and tenderness.
H3: Beef and Cabbage Stew timing for tender vegetables
Vegetables are added later to avoid overcooking. This approach keeps cabbage soft but intact and prevents potatoes from breaking down too early.
H2: Serving Ideas for Beef and Cabbage Stew
H3: Beef and Cabbage Stew with rustic side dishes
Serve with crusty bread or simple crackers to soak up the broth. These sides add texture without competing with the stew’s flavor.
H3: Beef and Cabbage Stew for meal prep and leftovers
This stew reheats well and often tastes better the next day. Store portions in airtight containers for quick lunches or dinners.
H3: Beef and Cabbage Stew for cold-weather dinners
Its warmth and balance make it a reliable choice during fall and winter when hearty meals feel most satisfying.
H2: FAQs About Beef and Cabbage Stew
H3: Cabbage and ground beef recipes easy
Cabbage pairs well with ground beef, but stew meat offers a richer texture. Both options work, depending on whether you prefer quick cooking or slow simmering.
H3: Beef and cabbage recipes
Beef and cabbage can be used in soups, stir-fries, or baked dishes. Stews remain popular because they blend flavors evenly over time.
H3: Can cabbage be overcooked in stew?
Yes, cabbage can become mushy if added too early. Adding it with other vegetables later in the process keeps it tender yet structured.
H2: Conclusion: A Reliable Stew You’ll Make Again
H3: Beef and Cabbage Stew as a timeless recipe
This dish reflects practical cooking that prioritizes flavor and nourishment over trends.
H3: Beef and Cabbage Stew for practical home cooks
It rewards patience, not precision, making it accessible for cooks of any level.
H3: Beef and Cabbage Stew worth sharing
With its generous yield and balanced taste, this stew is well suited for family tables and shared meals.
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