Cabbage Tamales Or One-Dish Dinner
Cabbage tamales offer a hearty, savory dish combining tender cabbage leaves, seasoned hamburger, rice, and flavorful ketchup sauce, perfect for a comforting family dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- For each pound of hamburger, mix one cup of raw rice, salt, pepper, and optionally chopped onion, pepper, and celery to taste.
- Shape the mixture into tamales.
- Wrap each tamale in one or more cabbage leaves and pin with a toothpick.
- Place the cabbage tamales gently in a cooking pot.
- For each pound of hamburger mixture, add one cup of catsup and half a cup of water.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to the lowest setting.
- Let simmer, uncovered, until done, approximately 45 minutes to 1 hour.
- Do not stir during cooking.
- Serve with cabbage slaw and hot corn bread or rolls for a complete meal.
Tips & Substitutions
For a twist, consider adding spices such as cumin or chili powder to the hamburger mixture for an extra kick. You can also substitute the hamburger with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you prefer, use pre-cooked rice to save time. Adjust the amount of catsup based on your sweetness preference. Ensure your cabbage leaves are pliable by blanching them briefly before wrapping.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the cabbage tamales with a fresh cabbage slaw for a crunchy contrast. Pair with hot corn bread or rolls to soak up the delicious sauce. A dollop of sour cream or avocado on top can elevate the dish further. This meal pairs beautifully with the flavors found in Hamburger Casserole Meat Loaf, making it a comforting and hearty choice.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover cabbage tamales can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a steamer or microwave with a splash of water to maintain moisture. Cover with a damp paper towel when microwaving to prevent drying out. They can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just ensure they're well-wrapped.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cabbage Tamales Or One-Dish Dinner contains roughly 9 calories, with 0g protein, 2g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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 the tamales ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the tamales in advance. After wrapping them in cabbage leaves, store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before cooking. This can enhance the flavors as they meld. Just ensure to adjust cooking times if they are chilled.
What can I use instead of catsup?
If you want an alternative to catsup, consider using tomato sauce mixed with a bit of sugar and vinegar to replicate the sweetness and acidity. Alternatively, barbecue sauce can add a smoky flavor. Adjust the quantity based on your taste preferences.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Absolutely! While the recipe traditionally uses hamburger meat, you can substitute it with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based meat alternatives for a vegetarian option. Just ensure to adjust seasoning and cooking times accordingly for best results.
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).