May 16, 2024

Cabbage Chronicles: Surprising Facts and a Delicious Savory Stew Recipe

cabbage beef stew

Cabbage may not always steal the spotlight, but it holds a world of intriguing secrets. Join us in the Cabbage Chronicles as we unveil surprising facts about this unassuming vegetable and share a delectable, hearty stew recipe that'll warm your soul.

Fun Facts About Cabbage

Don't underestimate cabbage! It's got some cool facts you need to know.

  1. Ancient Vegetable: Cabbage has been cultivated for over 4,000 years and was a staple in the diets of ancient civilizations like the Egyptians, Greeks, and Romans.
  2. Many Varieties: There are various types of cabbage, including green cabbage, red cabbage, Napa cabbage, and Savoy cabbage, each with its unique flavor and texture.
  3. Low in Calories: Cabbage is incredibly low in calories, making it a great choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. A cup of shredded cabbage has around 22 calories.
  4. Rich in Nutrients: Despite its low calorie count, cabbage is a nutritional powerhouse, packed with vitamins K, C, and B6, as well as fiber and antioxidants.
  5. Versatile Ingredient: Cabbage can be used in a wide range of dishes, from coleslaw and sauerkraut to stir-fries, soups, and stuffed cabbage rolls.
  6. Cabbage Patch Kids: The term "cabbage" is used informally to refer to a person's head, often in a joking or endearing manner. You might hear someone say, "Use your cabbage and think!"
  7. Fermentation Friend: Cabbage is a key ingredient in the fermentation process, used to create foods like sauerkraut and kimchi. It's the lactic acid bacteria that work their magic during fermentation.
  8. Cabbage for Healing: Traditionally, cabbage leaves have been used as a natural remedy for various ailments, including sore muscles and engorged breasts in breastfeeding mothers.
  9. Cool-Weather Crop: Cabbage thrives in cool weather and is often harvested in late fall, making it a great choice for winter stews and soups.
  10. Long Shelf Life: When stored properly, cabbage can last a long time in your fridge. It's a budget-friendly, durable vegetable.

Cabbage Beef Stew Recipe

Yield 8 Servings

Ingredients: 

  • ½ Ib. lean ground beef
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 1 cup chopped celery
  • 2 cups shredded cabbage
  • 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 tsp. chili powder
  • 1 tsp. garlic powder
  • ¼ tsp. cumin
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 Tbsp. sugar
  • 1 (15 oz.) can kidney beans
  • 2 (15 oz.) cans Mexican-stewed tomatoes

Directions: 

  • Brown meat and drain; return to pan. Add onion, celery, and cabbage.
  • Cook until vegetables are clear or wilted, 3-5 minutes. Add remaining ingredients. Simmer uncovered for ½ hour.

Cabbage beef stew recipe card

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