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Cabbage Goulash

Cabbage Goulash

Cabbage Goulash is a hearty and comforting one-pot dish featuring tender cabbage simmered with savory smoked paprika, garlic, onions, carrots, and a rich tomato base. This flavorful and nutritious meal is perfect for cozying up any day of the year and is easily customizable to suit vegan, vegetarian, or meat-enhanced diets.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 medium head fresh green or savoy cabbage, finely sliced (about 6 cups)
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 23 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 2 teaspoons smoked paprika (use good quality)
  • 2 medium carrots, diced
  • 4 cups vegetable broth (or meat broth for non-vegetarian)
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional Ingredients

  • Sour cream, for serving (optional)
  • Kielbasa or smoked pork sausage, sliced (for heartier version)
  • Pinch of chili flakes or hot paprika (for extra heat)
  • Diced potatoes (for thicker, filling meal)
  • Fresh chopped parsley or dill, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Vegetables: Finely slice the cabbage and dice the onions and carrots to ensure even cooking and harmonious texture in the finished dish.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat a small amount of oil in a large pot over medium heat. Cook the diced onions until they turn soft and golden. Add the minced garlic and stir continuously until fragrant, creating the aromatic base.
  3. Add Spices and Tomato: Stir in the smoked paprika and tomato paste. Cook briefly to release the spices’ oils and deepen their flavor.
  4. Combine Vegetables and Broth: Add the sliced cabbage, diced carrots, and vegetable broth to the pot. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to marry and the cabbage to soften.
  5. Simmer to Perfection: Cover the pot and cook on low heat for 30 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cabbage should become tender while absorbing the smoky, savory flavors.
  6. Final Touches: Just before serving, stir in a dollop of sour cream if using, adding creaminess and balancing the spices. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill as desired.

Notes

  • Use fresh cabbage to retain a pleasant texture and vibrant flavor after simmering.
  • Do not skip the smoked paprika, as it provides the authentic goulash taste.
  • Simmer gently over low heat to deepen flavors without overcooking the cabbage.
  • Adjust salt and pepper towards the end of cooking to account for flavor concentration.
  • For brightness, consider adding a splash of vinegar or lemon juice just before serving.
  • The recipe is naturally gluten-free if using gluten-free broth and ingredients.
  • This dish can be made vegan by omitting sour cream and using vegetable broth.
  • Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days and freeze for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat gently with a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.

Nutrition

Keywords: Cabbage Goulash, comfort food, one-pot meal, smoked paprika, savory stew, vegetarian goulash, vegan goulash, gluten free, hearty cabbage recipe