Elaine's Unstuffed Sweet and Sour Cabbage

Name: Elaine's Unstuffed Sweet and Sour Cabbage
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 65 min
Yield: 6 servings
Cuisine: Canadian
Ingredients: 1 large green cabbage (chopped); 500 g ground beef; 1 large onion (diced); 2 cloves garlic (minced); 400 g canned tomatoes (diced); 1/4 cup brown sugar (packed); 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar; 1 cup beef broth; 1 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper

65 min 6 servings Medium

All Recipes

A delightful twist on the traditional cabbage rolls, this unstuffed version is tangy, hearty, and perfect for a comforting meal.

Prep

20 min

Cook

45 min

Total

65 min

Servings

Difficulty

Medium

Grandma Elaine's Unstuffed Sweet and Sour Cabbage is a beloved family recipe that brings the delicious flavours of traditional cabbage rolls without the fuss of actually stuffing them. This dish combines the tanginess of vinegar and the sweetness of brown sugar to create a comforting meal that warms the soul. This version is perfect for busy cooks or those who love the taste of cabbage rolls but prefer a simpler preparation. The unstuffed method keeps all the classic flavours intact while making the process easier and faster. Ideal for family dinners or potlucks, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household, just as it has been in many Canadian homes.

Instructions

Prepare ingredients

Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces, dice the onion, and mince the garlic.

Brown the beef

In a large pot, brown the ground beef over medium-high heat until fully cooked. Drain excess fat.

Pro tip: Use a slotted spoon to remove excess grease easily.

Cook onions and garlic

Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.

Combine main ingredients

Add the chopped cabbage, canned tomatoes, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and beef broth to the pot. Stir well to combine.

Pro tip: Ensure the cabbage is well coated with the sauce.

Season the dish

Add salt and black pepper to taste. Stir again to ensure even seasoning.

Pro tip: Taste and adjust seasonings as needed.

Simmer the dish

Cover the pot and simmer on low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender.

Pro tip: Check occasionally to ensure the cabbage doesn't stick.

💡

Tips & Tricks

Use a large, heavy-bottomed pot to prevent sticking.
Adjust the sweetness and sourness to your taste by altering sugar and vinegar amounts.
For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with lentils.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Grandma Elaine's unstuffed sweet and sour cabbage?

It's a simplified version of traditional cabbage rolls, featuring unstuffed cabbage with a sweet and tangy sauce.

How many calories are in Grandma Elaine's unstuffed sweet and sour cabbage?

There are approximately 250 calories per serving.

Can I make unstuffed sweet and sour cabbage ahead of time?

Yes, it can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for future use.

How do I adjust the sweetness and sourness?

Modify the amounts of brown sugar and apple cider vinegar to suit your taste preferences.

What should I serve with unstuffed sweet and sour cabbage?

It pairs well with crusty bread, rice, or a green salad.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this unstuffed sweet and sour cabbage with crusty bread or over a bed of fluffy rice to soak up the delicious sauce. It pairs wonderfully with a light, crisp green salad or steamed vegetables. You can make this dish ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave. It also freezes well, making it a convenient option for future meals.

Nutrition per serving

250

Calories

18g

Protein

12g

Fat

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