When you want a chilly-weather meal or you’re craving comfort food, this cabbage stew is the answer. Packed with lean ground turkey, tender vegetables and aromatic herbs, this stew is not only delicious, it’s nutritious.
The best part? This cabbage stew recipe is a 30-minute meal, from prep to cooking, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a hearty meal quickly. Plus, it’s versatile—swap the turkey for ground beef, if you prefer, or omit the meat altogether for a vegetarian version of this stewed cabbage.
Ingredients for Cabbage Stew
- Ground turkey: A pound of lean ground turkey adds protein and rich flavor to the cabbage stew.
- Onion:Â A medium onion provides a sweet and savory base for the stew.
- Garlic: Three minced garlic cloves deliver a robust and aromatic flavor.
- Cabbage: The chopped cabbage adds bulk and fiber, as well as giving the dish a mildly sweet flavor.
- Carrots: Sliced carrots offer color, sweetness and their famous carrot nutrients to the stew.
- Tomatoes: Undrained diced tomatoes add acidity and liquid to the mix.
- Water: The 3/4 cup of water helps create the stew consistency. Alternatively, use bone broth for a heartier and more nutritious stew.
- Brown sugar: Just a tablespoon of brown sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes and adds subtle sweetness.
- White vinegar: The white vinegar adds a tangy flavor and helps to tenderize the vegetables.
- Seasonings:Â Salt, dried oregano, dried thyme and pepper create a well-rounded, earthy flavor profile that pairs well with the turkey and cabbage.
Directions
Step 1: Cook the turkey
In a large saucepan over medium heat, cook the turkey, onion and garlic until the meat is no longer pink, five to seven minutes, breaking the turkey into crumbles as it drains. Drain the excess fat from the pan.
Step 2: Add the remaining ingredients
Add the cabbage, carrots, tomatoes, water, brown sugar, vinegar, salt, oregano, thyme and pepper to the pan, stirring to combine everything thoroughly.
Step 3: Bring it to a boil, then simmer
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan and let the stew simmer until the vegetables are tender, 12 to 15 minutes.
Cabbage Stew Variations
- Use beef instead: Swap the ground turkey for some lean ground beef for a richer flavor in this cabbage stew.
- Make it vegetarian: Omit the meat and add more vegetables, such as bell peppers and zucchini. You can also use homemade vegetable stock and add a can of white beans or chickpeas for extra protein and fiber.
How to Store Cabbage Stew
Portion leftovers of this cabbage stew into individual-sized airtight containers and store them in the fridge for up to three days.
Can you freeze cabbage in stew?
Yes, this cabbage stew freezes well. Allow the stew to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers and freeze it for up to three months. To eat it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave—you may need to add a splash of broth or water to thin the consistency of the stew before serving.
Cabbage Stew Tips
How can you make cabbage stew more flavorful?
To deepen the flavor of this stew, try browning the turkey well before adding other ingredients. You can also add a bay leaf while simmering (remove it before serving!), or stir in some freshly chopped herbs like parsley or dill before serving.
How can you thicken cabbage stew?
To thicken the cabbage stew, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a tablespoon of water to create a slurry. Stir it into the stew and simmer for a few minutes until the stew thickens.
Can you add potatoes to cabbage stew?
Yes, you can add diced potatoes to cabbage stew to make it heartier. Add them along with the other vegetables, simmering until the potatoes are tender.
Can you make cabbage stew in a slow cooker?
Yes, this recipe adapts well to a slow cooker or Instant Pot. Brown the turkey, onions and garlic first, then add all the remaining ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for six to eight hours, or on high for three to four hours, until the vegetables are tender.
