This Cabbage and Rice Casserole with Savory Minced Meat is a comforting, hearty dish that’s both nourishing and satisfying. Combining tender cabbage, flavorful minced pork and beef, and fragrant herbs, this casserole has all the elements of a classic meal that feels like home. The dish is layered with fluffy basmati rice, earthy vegetables, and a rich mixture of seasoned minced meat, making it perfect for family gatherings or as a weeknight treat. A hint of garlic and Italian herbs gives the casserole an aromatic depth that complements the sweet cabbage and meaty filling, while paprika and black pepper add warmth and spice.

Cabbage has been a staple in countless recipes around the world, thanks to its mild flavor and versatility. In this casserole, cabbage takes on a tender, almost buttery texture that pairs beautifully with the rice and meat, making every bite a satisfying experience. This dish has the cozy appeal of classic European casseroles, creating a balance between flavor, texture, and heartiness. Whether you’re new to cabbage casseroles or revisiting a family favorite, this recipe will remind you of the timeless power of simple, delicious ingredients.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 3 large eggs
• Salt, to taste
• 600g (21.16 oz) cabbage, thinly shredded
• 500 ml (2 cups) water
• 1/2 cup basmati rice
• 1 cup hot water (for cooking rice)
• 50g (1.76 oz) butter
• 2 medium onions, finely chopped
• 1 large carrot, grated
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp Italian herb mixture (thyme, rosemary, oregano)
• 500g (17.64 oz) minced meat (pork and beef blend)
• Black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Fresh dill, chopped
• 1/2 tbsp paprika
• Vegetable oil, for frying
• 3 tbsp flour

Preparation Time:

• Prep Time: 25 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

Servings:

• Serves: 6

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving):

• Calories: 380 kcal
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 26g
• Fat: 20g
• Fiber: 4g
• Sugar: 3g

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage

1. Shred the Cabbage: Thinly shred the cabbage, discarding any thick stems or core pieces.
2. Boil the Cabbage: In a large pot, bring 500 ml of water to a boil with a pinch of salt. Add the shredded cabbage and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until softened. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

1. Rinse the Rice: Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps prevent clumping.
2. Cook the Rice: In a small pot, combine the rice with 1 cup of hot water and a pinch of salt. Cover and cook on low heat for 15 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. Fluff with a fork and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Prepare the Onion and Carrot Mixture: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and grated carrot, stirring until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add Garlic and Herbs: Stir in the minced garlic, Italian herb mixture, and paprika. Cook for another 1-2 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Transfer to a bowl and set aside.

Step 4: Prepare the Meat Mixture

1. Cook the Meat: In the same skillet, add a little vegetable oil if needed, then add the minced pork and beef mixture. Season with salt and black pepper and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
2. Combine with Vegetables: Add the sautéed onion and carrot mixture to the cooked meat and stir to combine. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 5: Assemble the Casserole

1. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked cabbage, cooked rice, and meat mixture. Add fresh parsley and dill, and stir well.
2. Add the Eggs: In a small bowl, beat the eggs with a pinch of salt, then pour them over the cabbage mixture. Add the flour to help bind the ingredients, mixing thoroughly until evenly combined.

Step 6: Bake the Casserole

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Transfer to Baking Dish: Grease a large baking dish with vegetable oil, then spread the cabbage and meat mixture evenly in the dish.
3. Bake: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is set.

Step 7: Serve

1. Cool and Slice: Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before slicing.
2. Garnish: Garnish with fresh parsley or dill if desired, and serve hot.

Why This Recipe is Timeless:

Cabbage casseroles have been enjoyed for generations, combining humble ingredients in a way that maximizes flavor and comfort. The use of cabbage and minced meat is common in many traditional European dishes, offering a budget-friendly meal that can feed a crowd. This particular recipe, with its inclusion of rice and herbs, creates a unique balance between textures and flavors. The casserole’s simplicity, combined with the subtle complexity of herbs and spices, makes it suitable for any occasion, from family dinners to cozy gatherings.

Tips for Making the Perfect Cabbage and Rice Casserole:

• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and dill add a bright, refreshing flavor. If fresh herbs aren’t available, dried can be substituted, but reduce the amount to avoid overpowering the dish.
• Make it Vegetarian-Friendly: For a meatless version, substitute the minced meat with cooked lentils or chickpeas. This creates a hearty, protein-rich alternative.
• Add Cheese for Extra Flavor: A sprinkle of grated cheese on top before baking adds a golden, crispy layer to the casserole.
• Drain the Cabbage Well: After boiling, make sure the cabbage is well-drained to prevent excess moisture, which can make the casserole too wet.

Storage Tips:

• Refrigerate: Store leftover casserole in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat individual portions in the microwave or oven for best results.
• Freeze: This casserole freezes well. Slice into portions and wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place in a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Reheat from frozen in the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through.
• Make-Ahead Tip: Prepare the casserole up to the baking step, then cover and refrigerate for up to 1 day. When ready to serve, bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

• Can I use other types of meat?
  Yes, ground chicken or turkey work well in place of pork and beef. Adjust seasoning if needed, as these meats tend to be milder in flavor.
• Is it possible to use another type of rice?
  While basmati rice is light and fragrant, other types like jasmine or even short-grain rice can be used. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as needed.
• What side dishes go well with this casserole?
  A simple green salad or roasted vegetables make an excellent pairing, balancing the richness of the casserole with freshness.

Conclusion:

This Cabbage and Rice Casserole with Savory Minced Meat is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting, classic dish that brings together textures, flavors, and aromas in a satisfying way. The softness of the cabbage, the chewiness of the rice, and the depth of the meat make each bite a delightful experience. With its fragrant herbs and gentle spices, this casserole feels like an old-world recipe with modern appeal.

Whether you’re making it for a family dinner, a holiday gathering, or simply as a cozy meal for yourself, this casserole delivers the kind of warmth and satisfaction that only homemade dishes can provide. And with its versatile ingredients and preparation steps, it’s a recipe that’s easy to adjust to suit various tastes and dietary preferences.

Try this recipe when you’re looking for something simple, hearty, and full of flavor, and enjoy the experience of sharing a dish that’s loved across generations. The balance of cabbage, rice, and savory meat is both timeless and comforting—perfect for any season and any table.