Cabbage Patch Stew(Lo-Cal)
Cabbage Patch Stew is a hearty, low-calorie dish featuring tender cabbage, carrots, and lean ground beef in a flavorful tomato-based broth. Perfect for a comforting yet light meal, it combines fresh herbs and simple ingredients for a satisfying and nutritious experience.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef with sliced onion in a large pot.
- Drain and rinse the beef mixture with hot water.
- Add garlic powder, cabbage chunks, sliced carrots, bay leaf, thyme, 1 cup of water, and 1 cup of tomato juice to the pot.
- Cook for about 10 minutes until vegetables start to soften.
- Stir in the remaining water and tomato juice, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to simmer.
- Cook until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Stir in chopped fresh parsley and instant mashed potato flakes.
- Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider substituting the lean ground beef with ground turkey or chicken. If you prefer a vegetarian option, use lentils or beans instead. Adjust the seasoning to taste; adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce can enhance the savory notes. To save time, pre-chop your vegetables ahead of cooking. This dish can also be made in a slow cooker for convenience.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty stew with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a filling meal. A light green salad pairs well to balance the richness of the stew. For a comforting variation, consider serving it with a side of Betty Baked Beans for a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth if it appears too thick. This stew can also be frozen for up to three months; just ensure it's fully cooled before freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cabbage Patch Stew(Lo-Cal) contains roughly 2052 calories, with 166g protein, 379g carbohydrates, and 36g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (802% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (669% of the Daily Value), and protein (332% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2372mg per serving (103% 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 make this stew in advance?
Absolutely! Cabbage Patch Stew tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Prepare it a day ahead, cool it completely, and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving; it will save you time during busy weeknights.
What can I substitute for cabbage?
If you're not a fan of cabbage, you can substitute it with kale, Swiss chard, or even spinach. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as these greens may wilt quicker than cabbage. This will give you a fresh twist while still keeping the stew delicious and nutritious.
Is this stew suitable for freezing?
Yes, this stew freezes well! Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot.
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).