Rice Cabbage Goulash

Cook: 20 min Cuisine: Eastern European

A hearty, flavorful goulash featuring ground beef, rice, and cabbage, perfect for comforting family dinners with rich tomato and savory seasonings.

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Ingredients

  • 1 tsp. shortening
  • 3/4 lb. ground beef
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 2 Tbsp. minced onion
  • 3/4 c. tomato paste (6 oz. can)
  • 2 tsp. salt
  • 1/4 tsp. pepper
  • 3 c. water
  • 3/4 c. uncooked rice
  • 4 c. shredded cabbage

Instructions

  1. Heat shortening in a large skillet.
  2. Add ground beef and cook, stirring occasionally, until crumbly and browned.
  3. Add minced garlic and minced onion; cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent over-browning.
  4. Stir in tomato paste, salt, and pepper.
  5. Add water and uncooked rice; bring to a boil.
  6. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
  7. Stir in shredded cabbage and cook until wilted and heated through.

Tips & Substitutions

For a richer flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce. You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. If you’re out of tomato paste, crushed tomatoes can work in a pinch. This dish is versatile, so feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots to enhance its nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the Rice Cabbage Goulash hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs well with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Boneless Steak Or Shortribs, which complements the goulash's flavors beautifully.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it seems too dry. You can also microwave individual portions until heated through, stirring occasionally for even warming.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Rice Cabbage Goulash contains roughly 1016 calories, with 32g protein, 168g carbohydrates, and 25g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (65% of the Daily Value), iron (50% of the Daily Value), and potassium (28% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 3000mg per serving (130% of the Daily Value).

1016 kcal 51% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 32.5g 65% DV
Total Fat 25.2g 32% DV
Carbs 168.4g 61% DV
Fiber 6.7g 24% DV
Sugar 13.9g 28% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 3000mg 100% DV
Potassium 1322.8mg 28% DV
Cholesterol 32mg 11% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 74.6mcg 8% DV
Vitamin C 20.4mg 23% DV
Vitamin D 0.1mcg
Calcium 88.2mg 7% DV
Iron 9mg 50% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber Low-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 use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice for white rice, but be aware that it will require a longer cooking time. Increase the simmering time and possibly add more water to ensure the brown rice cooks thoroughly and absorbs the flavors.

What can I use instead of cabbage?

If you don't have cabbage on hand, you can use kale or spinach as alternatives. Both will wilt nicely and add their unique flavor to the dish. Just add them towards the end of the cooking process to prevent overcooking.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

Absolutely! This goulash freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.

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).

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