Cabbage Patch Stew
Cabbage Patch Stew is a hearty and satisfying dish packed with flavor from ground beef, fresh vegetables, and a blend of beans. This comforting stew is perfect for chilly nights and family gatherings, offering a nutritious meal that pleases everyone at the table.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine the hamburger, celery, salt, pepper, tomatoes, onion, and green pepper in a pot.
- Brown the mixture until the meat is fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
- Add the chili beans, kidney beans, and shredded cabbage to the pot.
- Bring the stew to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 30 to 45 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of garlic powder or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the meat mixture. If you're short on fresh vegetables, frozen mixed veggies can work well as a substitute. To make it vegetarian, use plant-based ground meat and vegetable broth. This stew can also be enhanced with a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Cabbage Patch Stew with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Baked Barbecue for a delightful flavor contrast. For a heartier option, consider serving it over cooked rice or with cornbread on the side. This stew is perfect for meal prep as it tastes even better the next day.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, warm on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If the stew seems too thick, add a bit of water or broth to reach your desired consistency. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cabbage Patch Stew contains roughly 390 calories, with 20g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 16g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (86% of the Daily Value), protein (41% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2033mg per serving (88% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use different types of beans in this recipe?
Absolutely! You can substitute black beans or pinto beans for the chili and kidney beans. Just make sure to rinse and drain canned beans to reduce sodium content. This flexibility lets you customize the stew to your taste preferences.
How can I make this stew spicier?
To add more heat, you can include diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of cayenne pepper when cooking the meat. Additionally, a splash of hot sauce can elevate the spice level. Adjust according to your heat tolerance for the perfect kick!
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! This recipe is inherently gluten-free as long as you ensure the canned beans and tomatoes do not contain gluten. Check labels for any hidden gluten ingredients, and you can enjoy this hearty stew without worry.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).