Name: Turkish Cabbage Stew Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: Turkish
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 1 large red onion, very finely chopped; 1 pound ground beef or lamb; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 medium cabbage head, thick stem removed, washed, and roughly chopped; 2 cups beef broth; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 1 tablespoon sweet paprika; 1/2 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon dried coriander; Salt and pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 34 reviews

If you’re looking for a comforting, flavorful dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, you’ve got to try this Turkish Cabbage Stew Recipe. It’s a delightful blend of tender cabbage, rich spices, and hearty ground meat, all simmered together until the flavors meld into something truly special. This stew captures the essence of Turkish home cooking with simple ingredients that come together in a way that’s both satisfying and memorable. Whether you’re new to Turkish flavors or a longtime fan, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows multiple ingredients neatly arranged on a dark wooden surface with a whole green cabbage in the top left corner. In the center, a large clear bowl holds raw pink ground meat. To the right of the meat bowl is a smaller clear bowl filled with finely chopped purple and white onions. Below these, several small clear bowls hold different spices and ingredients: light brown powder, bright red powder, white cubes of butter, dark red paste, greenish-brown powder, black pepper, white salt, and crushed red chili flakes. A blue and white checked towel is partially visible on the right side. The setup is clean and organized, with all ingredients clearly visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Turkish Cabbage Stew Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredients. Each one plays a vital role: from the rich butter that starts the base, to the vibrant spices that awaken your senses, every addition builds layers of flavor and texture.

2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Adds a creamy richness that balances the spices perfectly.
1 large red onion (very finely chopped): Provides a sweet and savory foundation once sautéed.
1 pound ground beef or lamb: Brings hearty depth and a satisfying texture to the stew.
2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrates umami and lends a hint of tangy sweetness.
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adds just the right amount of gentle heat to keep things lively.
1 tablespoon sweet paprika: Offers smoky undertones that enhance every bite.
1/2 teaspoon cumin: Infuses the stew with warm, earthy notes.
1 teaspoon dried coriander: Gives a subtle citrusy aroma that brightens the dish.
Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning and bringing all flavors into harmony.
1 medium cabbage head (thick stem removed, washed and roughly chopped): The star ingredient – tender yet with a slight crunch to provide texture.
2 cups beef broth: Creates a savory, moist environment for slow cooking the cabbage and meat.

How to Make Turkish Cabbage Stew Recipe

Step 1: Melt the Butter and Sauté the Onion

Start by placing your Dutch oven over medium heat and adding the butter. Once melted, toss in the finely chopped red onion. Let it cook gently for about 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions soften and become translucent. This releases their natural sweetness, forming the flavorful base for your stew.

Step 2: Brown the Ground Meat

Next, add the ground beef or lamb to the pot. Use a wooden spoon to break the meat apart as it cooks, allowing it to brown evenly. This should take around 5 to 7 minutes. Browning the meat properly is key, as it locks in flavor and gives your stew its hearty heart.

Step 3: Add the Spices and Tomato Paste

Mix in the tomato paste along with red pepper flakes, sweet paprika, cumin, dried coriander, and salt. Stir everything thoroughly, letting the spices toast for about a minute. This step awakens the aromatics and unleashes the vibrant flavors that make this Turkish Cabbage Stew Recipe truly shine.

Step 4: Incorporate Cabbage and Broth

Now it’s time for the cabbage to join the party. Add the roughly chopped cabbage along with the beef broth. Stir gently to combine all the elements, ensuring the cabbage is fully submerged or at least nicely nestled within the liquid.

Step 5: Simmer Until Tender

Cover the pot and reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let the stew cook for about 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. The cabbage will soften beautifully while absorbing all the meat and spice flavors, turning tender and juicy without losing its character.

Step 6: Final Taste and Adjustment

Once the cabbage is tender, give your stew a careful taste test. Add more salt or pepper if needed to suit your palate. This final seasoning step ensures the stew is perfectly balanced before serving.

How to Serve Turkish Cabbage Stew Recipe

A white plate holds a stew made of cooked ground meat and soft cabbage pieces. The dish has a mix of light brown and pale yellow colors with hints of orange from the sauce. Small green herbs are sprinkled throughout the stew, adding small spots of color. The sauce looks slightly thick and moist, surrounding the meat and cabbage evenly. The white plate contrasts with the warm earthy tones of the stew. The background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To brighten up your bowl, sprinkle freshly chopped parsley on top just before serving. The green flecks bring a fresh pop of color and a touch of herbaceous flavor that complements the warm spices beautifully. For an added creamy twist, a dollop of plain yogurt on the side works wonders too.

Side Dishes

This stew is hearty on its own but pairs wonderfully with crusty bread to soak up every bit of that flavorful broth. You could also serve it alongside simple steamed rice or a light bulgur pilaf to round out your meal. A crisp cucumber and tomato salad can add a refreshing contrast to the warm, spiced stew.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun and inviting presentation, try serving the stew in rustic bowls with a side of lemon wedges to squeeze on top. The citrus cut can elevate the flavor, adding a zesty brightness. Alternatively, ladle the stew over mashed potatoes for a cozy twist that makes this Turkish Cabbage Stew Recipe feel even more indulgent.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This stew stores incredibly well thanks to its slow-cooked flavors. Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even more delicious the next day.

Freezing

If you want to keep the Turkish Cabbage Stew Recipe for longer, freezing is a great option. Let it cool completely, then place it in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bags. It freezes beautifully for up to 3 months and makes for a convenient, ready-to-go meal any time you need.

Reheating

When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop over low heat to warm it evenly while preventing the cabbage from getting mushy. Stir occasionally and add a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick. Microwave reheating works as well; just cover and heat in short bursts, stirring in between.

FAQs

Can I use vegetables other than cabbage in this stew?

Absolutely! While cabbage is traditional and incredibly delicious in this recipe, you can experiment by adding chopped carrots, potatoes, or zucchinis to give your stew a different texture and flavor profile.

Is it possible to make this Turkish Cabbage Stew Recipe vegetarian?

Yes, you can omit the meat and use plant-based protein options like lentils or mushrooms. Also, use vegetable broth instead of beef broth to keep it fully vegetarian and still hearty.

What cut of meat is best for this stew?

Ground beef or lamb works best because it cooks quickly and blends well with the spices. If you prefer, you can use finely chopped stew meat but adjust cooking times accordingly to ensure tenderness.

How spicy is this recipe?

The red pepper flakes add a gentle kick, but the stew isn’t overwhelmingly spicy. You can adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to suit your heat preference or omit them entirely for a milder stew.

Can I make this stew in a slow cooker?

Yes! Start by browning the meat and onions on the stove, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours until the cabbage is tender and flavors are harmonized.

Final Thoughts

This Turkish Cabbage Stew Recipe is a wonderfully comforting dish that combines simple ingredients with bold, warming spices to create something truly special. It’s perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you crave a meal that feels like homemade goodness in every bite. I can’t wait for you to try it yourself and share the love it brings to your table.