Sweet and Sour Beef and Cabbage Recipe

Name: Sweet and Sour Beef and Cabbage
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Ingredients: 1.5 pounds ground beef; 0.5 cup chopped onion; 0.5 cup chopped celery; 0.5 cup chopped green bell pepper; 2 tablespoons quick cooking oats; 0.75 teaspoon salt; 0.25 teaspoon garlic powder; 0.125 teaspoon ground black pepper; 1 medium head cabbage, cut into thin wedges; 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce; 0.25 cup apple cider vinegar; 3 tablespoons brown sugar; salt and ground black pepper to taste

Cook Time: 25 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe yields 6 servings. The amounts of ingredients are adjusted automatically, but the cooking times and steps remain the same. Note that scaling recipes may not always work perfectly.

1 pounds ground beef
cup chopped onion
cup chopped celery
cup chopped green bell pepper
2 tablespoons quick cooking oats
teaspoon salt
teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 medium head cabbage, cut into thin wedges
1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
cup apple cider vinegar
3 tablespoons brown sugar
Salt and ground black pepper to taste

Directions

Place a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the ground beef, onion, celery, and green bell pepper in the hot skillet until the beef is completely browned, about 7 to 10 minutes.
Sprinkle the oats, teaspoon salt, garlic powder, and 1 teaspoon black pepper into the beef mixture, stirring well to combine.
Arrange the cabbage wedges atop the beef mixture in the skillet, covering it evenly.
In a bowl, stir together the tomato sauce, apple cider vinegar, and brown sugar. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste.
Pour the sauce over the cabbage and beef mixture in the skillet. Place a cover on the skillet and let it simmer for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition	Amount	% Daily Value
Calories	304
Total Fat	14g	18%
Saturated Fat	6g	28%
Cholesterol	71mg	24%
Sodium	762mg	33%
Total Carbohydrate	23g	8%
Dietary Fiber	6g	20%
Total Sugars	15g
Protein	23g	45%
Vitamin C	72mg	80%
Calcium	94mg	7%
Iron	4mg	20%
Potassium	811mg	17%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

History of the Dish

The origins of Sweet and Sour Beef and Cabbage are deeply rooted in Eastern European cuisine, particularly in countries like Poland and the Czech Republic. The combination of cabbage and beef, both staple ingredients in these regions, has been a part of traditional home cooking for centuries. Cabbage was historically used as a long-lasting vegetable through the winter months, while beef provided a hearty protein source for farmers and laborers. The sweet and sour flavor profile comes from the use of vinegar and sugar, which are common in Central and Eastern European recipes, offering a balance between tanginess and sweetness that complements the earthy flavor of cabbage.

Regional Variations

While the basic concept of beef and cabbage is widely recognized, different regions have their own variations. In Poland, for instance, a similar dish known as "bigos" is made by stewing cabbage with meats, including beef, pork, and sausage, for hours, allowing the flavors to meld. The addition of tomato sauce, vinegar, and sugar in the American version of Sweet and Sour Beef and Cabbage is somewhat of a modern twist, adding a distinctly sweet-and-sour flavor that might not be as pronounced in traditional European preparations. Some versions of the dish might include sauerkraut or other vegetables to enhance the complexity of flavors.

Distinguishing Features

What sets Sweet and Sour Beef and Cabbage apart from similar dishes, such as stuffed cabbage rolls, is the simplicity of preparation. Unlike stuffed cabbage, which involves labor-intensive wrapping of seasoned meat in cabbage leaves, this dish combines all the ingredients in a single skillet, making it quicker and easier to prepare. Additionally, the use of oats in the recipe serves as a binder, making it a heartier meal. The distinct balance of sweet and tangy flavors from the vinegar and brown sugar adds an extra layer of complexity that is not as common in other beef and cabbage dishes.

Where is it Typically Served?

Sweet and Sour Beef and Cabbage is often served in casual, family-style settings. It makes for a great weeknight dinner, especially in colder months when hearty, comforting meals are in demand. The dish pairs well with a side of rice, mashed potatoes, or crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce. It can also be found in many Eastern European-American households, as it combines the flavors of home with the convenience of a modern, one-pan meal. Its appeal lies in its straightforwardness and ability to satisfy large groups with minimal effort.

Interesting Facts

The cabbage used in this dish is an excellent source of Vitamin C, which was historically important for preventing scurvy during long winters when fresh produce was scarce.
The dish has a versatile nature, with many cooks modifying the recipe by adding ingredients like bacon, tomatoes, or even apples to further enhance the flavor.
Oats are sometimes added to the dish to absorb excess moisture and provide a slightly different texture, making it more filling and hearty.
In some variations, Sweet and Sour Beef and Cabbage can be made with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, without losing the comforting flavor.

FAQ about Sweet and Sour Beef and Cabbage Recipe

Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you'd like to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool it down completely before storing it.

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even ground pork. Some people also like to use venison for a leaner option. Just note that you might need to adjust the seasoning to taste.

Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time. You can cook the meat and vegetable mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before adding the cabbage and simmering. Alternatively, you can also freeze the cooked components before adding the cabbage and then finish it when you're ready to serve.

If you don’t have quick cooking oats, you can use regular oats or even breadcrumbs as a substitute. The oats help bind the ingredients and absorb moisture, so breadcrumbs can be a suitable replacement.

Yes, you can add heat to the dish. Consider adding crushed red pepper flakes, a diced jalapeño, or a dash of cayenne pepper to increase the spiciness. You can also use a spicier vinegar or add some hot sauce to the sauce mixture.

You can reheat this dish in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short bursts, stirring between intervals, to avoid overcooking.

If you're not a fan of cabbage, you can substitute it with other vegetables like kale, collard greens, or even Brussels sprouts. Just keep in mind that these will cook differently and may change the texture of the dish.

Yes, you can reduce the amount of brown sugar or replace it with a natural sweetener like honey or maple syrup. If you're looking to cut sugar altogether, you can omit it and use a sugar substitute, but this may affect the flavor balance.

This dish pairs well with rice, mashed potatoes, or even a slice of crusty bread. If you're looking for a lighter side, a simple salad or steamed vegetables would complement the meal nicely.

Comments

Sarah White

04/15/2024 02:58:44 AM

I tried this recipe with a few tweaks, and it came out delicious. Instead of following the recipe exactly, I decided to get creative with some additional ingredients. I prepared the meat mixture and layered it over partially baked, sliced potatoes. I also added a layer of shredded carrots between the cabbage. For the top layer, I topped it with 10 sliced Campari tomatoes along with the sauce. The cabbage took a long time to soften, and I ended up leaving it as is; shredding it might have been a better option. Surprisingly, the crunch of the cabbage added a nice contrast to the other soft components. I will definitely be making this again!

Kenneth Garcia

04/14/2025 10:20:24 AM

We absolutely loved this recipe! I used slightly more than 1 pound of ground beef and followed Jarrie's vegetable recommendations, as I prefer using whole vegetables whenever I can. Although celery wasn't in the original recipe, I added 2 small stalks with the leaves. I opted to slice my cabbage into chunks using the thick slicing blade on my food processor, which worked perfectly and ensured even cooking. Adding approximately 1/2 tablespoon of smoked pepper gave the dish a delightful kick. I believe my modifications enhanced the dish while staying true to its essence. This will definitely be a dish I'll be making often during the colder months!

Nancy Brown

07/28/2023 10:41:43 PM

I accidentally forgot to add the oats, so I decided to use some leftover chopped cabbage and carrots instead (like a coleslaw mix without the sauce). I combined everything in one dish, topped it with mashed manioc (you could also use mashed potatoes), and baked it shepherd's pie style. It was a quick and tasty dish, and a great way to use up cabbage. Definitely a recipe worth keeping!

Pamela Sanchez

09/22/2022 09:01:07 PM

I initially found the dish to be quite good and made only one adjustment by using fresh garlic. However, after letting it cook for a while, I realized it lacked flavor. Despite adding my own homemade tomato sauce, which is spicier than canned, the dish still seemed bland. To remedy this, I incorporated some homemade salsa from the fridge and included a jalapeno pepper. Additionally, I found the amount of cabbage to be excessive, so I will reduce it in the future. The dish lacked sufficient sauce, prompting me to add another can of tomato sauce, along with additional vinegar and brown sugar. In the end, I ended up making more adjustments than anticipated, but I intend to prepare this dish again.

Robert Anderson

09/03/2024 10:52:51 PM

My family enjoyed this dish. I modified the recipe to align with our health goals by reducing the meat, increasing the vegetables, adding more garlic and black pepper, and omitting the oatmeal entirely. Instead of using tomato sauce, I opted for 2 cans of diced tomatoes with basil, oregano, and garlic. While I believe the original recipe is probably superior, our version better suited our dietary preferences. I will definitely be making this again.

Carolyn Jones

08/10/2023 04:11:01 PM

Excellent flavors and a wonderful option instead of making stuffed cabbage for a couple. I halved the recipe and substituted instant white rice for oatmeal since I didn't have any on hand. The white rice turned out to be a fantastic addition and cooked perfectly. I also included a tablespoon of golden raisins, which worked really well. Overall, a fantastic recipe!

Dennis Moore

03/07/2025 03:59:44 AM

I will definitely be making this recipe again. My family absolutely loved it!

Anthony Turner

02/17/2025 01:11:54 AM

Delicious!!!!!!!!!!

Nathan White

02/07/2023 05:50:00 PM

I enhanced the recipe with a spoonful of paprika and it turned out fantastic. My wife loved it so much that she requested me to make it again just 2 days later.

Jacob Smith

09/20/2024 09:23:48 PM

Simple yet unique dinner option! I like to include cooked rice to make it more satisfying. This recipe is flavorful and uses common ingredients. Thank you!

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