Cabbage tacos are fresh, crunchy, and incredibly satisfying, and they pair wonderfully with a variety of sides and toppings to take your meal to the next level. Start with a vibrant salsa fresca.
A tomato salsa with cilantro and lime adds a burst of freshness that contrasts beautifully with the savory filling of the tacos, brightening up every bite.
You can never go wrong with guacamole. Its creamy texture perfectly complements the crunch of the cabbage, offering a rich and flavorful contrast that enhances the tacos’ taste.
For an exciting side, consider a Mexican street corn salad. The combination of sweet corn, spicy mayo, cotija cheese, and lime creates a flavor explosion that will complement your tacos wonderfully.
The richness of the mayo and cheese pairs beautifully with the freshness of the cabbage, making each bite even more enjoyable.
With these tasty pairings in mind, your cabbage tacos are sure to be elevated to new heights!
What is Cabbage Taco?
At its core, a cabbage taco is a clever alternative to the traditional taco shell. Instead of using flour or corn tortillas, you wrap your delicious fillings in crisp cabbage leaves. Loaded with flavor and texture, the cabbage offers a crunchy bite that truly enhances the overall experience.
Why did I start making these?
Well, first off, they’re incredibly easy and quick to prepare. But beyond convenience, they’re also flexible. You can use different fillings, which opens up a world of flavor possibilities.
From seasoned beef to roasted vegetables, these tacos can adapt to whatever you have on hand.
Cabbage tacos allow you to enjoy a beloved dish while being mindful of your health. It’s a win-win situation.
Why This Recipe Works
You might be wondering why cabbage tacos are so worthy of your attention. Here are some solid reasons why:
Healthy Choice
Cabbage is low in calories and high in nutrients. It’s packed with vitamin K and antioxidants, making it a fantastic addition to any diet. It’s a smart swap if you’re looking to cut down on carbs while still enjoying your favorite flavors.
Versatile Ingredients
Whether you’re craving meat, beans, or a medley of vegetables, this recipe lets you customize the fillings to suit your tastes and dietary preferences. Veggie, fish, or chicken – the sky’s the limit!
Quick to Prepare
Making these tacos won’t steal your entire evening. With just a handful of ingredients and a few steps, dinner is served in no time flat. Perfect for those busy weekdays!
Kid-Friendly
The crunch of the cabbage is appealing. It’s a simple and fun way to get kids involved in mealtime – they can help wrap their own tacos and choose their own fillings!
Ingredients You’ll Need to Make This Dish
To whip up these delightful cabbage tacos, here’s what you need:
- 1 tablespoon dried onion flakes
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup low-carb taco seasoning blend
- 5 cups finely shredded or chopped green cabbage
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 1/2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 pound extra-lean ground beef
With these ingredients, you’re well on your way to taco perfection!
How to Make Cabbage Tacos
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the cabbage finely, if you haven’t done so already. This will ensure it wraps nicely around your filling.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
In a large skillet, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef. Break it apart with a spatula. Cook until it’s browned. This typically takes about 6-8 minutes.
Step 3: Add Spices
Once the beef is a nice brown color, stir in the onion flakes, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and low-carb taco seasoning. Pour in the vegetable broth to keep things juicy. Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Step 4: Assemble Your Tacos
Now comes the fun part. Lay out your cabbage leaves! You can use them whole or trim them down to make them more manageable. Spoon the beef mixture into each leaf, then top with shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 5: Serve
You can garnish with additional toppings like salsa, guacamole, or diced tomatoes. Then roll them up like burritos, or fold them like traditional tacos.
Tips & Tricks
Here are a few handy tips to make your cabbage taco experience even better:
- Use Fresh Cabbage: Fresh leaves hold up better than wilted ones. Look for sturdy leaves that can handle the fillings.
- Mix Up the Fillings: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Try chicken, turkey, or a combination of beans and quinoa for a vegetarian option.
- Get Creative with Toppings: Try yogurt, hot sauce, or diced avocados to add extra flavors and textures.
- Keep It Neat: If your cabbage leaves are tearing, briefly blanch them in boiling water to soften. This helps them bend without breaking.
- Make It Spicy: If you enjoy a kick, add some chopped jalapeños or chili flakes to the meat mixture.
How Do You Store the Leftovers?
Leftover cabbage tacos? No problem! Store the filling in an airtight container in the fridge. Keep the cabbage leaves separate to maintain their crunch. You can enjoy them cold or heat them up for a quick lunch. It’s best to consume leftovers within 3 days for optimal freshness.
What Sides Would Complement Cabbage Tacos?
Cabbage tacos are delightful on their own, but here are a few sides that add extra flair:
Mexican Rice: A flavorful rice seasoned with cumin and cilantro balances the dish. The fluffy texture pairs perfectly with the crunch of your tacos.
Black Bean Salad: A chilled bean salad loaded with corn, tomatoes, and a zesty lime dressing adds a refreshing contrast.
Grilled Vegetables: Skewers of zucchini, bell peppers, and onions thrown on the grill will enhance the smoky flavors. It’s a great way to use up summer produce.
What Alternatives Can You Use for the Ingredients?
If you’re missing some ingredients, here are alternatives to keep the taco fun going:
Ground Turkey or Chicken
Instead of beef, you can opt for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option. They absorb spices well and are just as versatile.
Cabbage Varieties
Don’t feel limited to green cabbage. Red cabbage works beautifully too! It adds color and a slightly different flavor.
Cheese Options
If sharp cheddar isn’t your style, feel free to use Monterey Jack or even crumbled feta for a tangy twist.
Homemade Taco Seasoning
If you don’t have taco seasoning on hand, combine chili powder, oregano, and garlic powder. This mix will give you the same flavor profile without the store-bought blend.
Conclusion
Cabbage tacos are a great option when you want something tasty, healthy, and easy to prepare. This dish is perfect for meal prep, gatherings, or simply a night in. I hope you feel inspired to try it. Remember, cooking should be fun!
Feel free to add your own twist and make these tacos your own. So gather your ingredients, channel your inner chef, and enjoy every delicious bite of cabbage taco goodness. Happy cooking!
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Cabbage Taco Recipe – Quick Delicious Meals
Cabbage tacos have quickly become one of my go-to recipes. When I first stumbled upon the idea, I was skeptical. How could something so simple satisfy my taco cravings?
But once I took that first bite, I knew I had uncovered a gem. It’s a twist on traditional tacos that packs the same punch without the added carbs. Trust me, you’ll want to make this recipe part of your kitchen repertoire.
Ingredients
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
-
Start by gathering all your ingredients. Chop the cabbage finely, if you haven’t done so already. This will ensure it wraps nicely around your filling.
Step 2: Cook the Beef
-
In a large skillet, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the ground beef. Break it apart with a spatula. Cook until it’s browned. This typically takes about 6-8 minutes.
Step 3: Add Spices
-
Once the beef is a nice brown color, stir in the onion flakes, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and low-carb taco seasoning. Pour in the vegetable broth to keep things juicy. Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
Step 4: Assemble Your Tacos
-
Now comes the fun part. Lay out your cabbage leaves! You can use them whole or trim them down to make them more manageable. Spoon the beef mixture into each leaf, then top with shredded cheddar cheese.
Step 5: Serve
-
You can garnish with additional toppings like salsa, guacamole, or diced tomatoes. Then roll them up like burritos, or fold them like traditional tacos.
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 461kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 33.2g52%
- Saturated Fat 17.8g89%
- Trans Fat 0.7g
- Cholesterol 96mg32%
- Sodium 1002mg42%
- Total Carbohydrate 12g4%
- Dietary Fiber 4g16%
- Sugars 6g
- Protein 30g60%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use Fresh Cabbage: Fresh leaves hold up better than wilted ones. Look for sturdy leaves that can handle the fillings.
- Mix Up the Fillings: Don’t hesitate to experiment! Try chicken, turkey, or a combination of beans and quinoa for a vegetarian option.
- Get Creative with Toppings: Try yogurt, hot sauce, or diced avocados to add extra flavors and textures.
- Keep It Neat: If your cabbage leaves are tearing, briefly blanch them in boiling water to soften. This helps them bend without breaking.
- Make It Spicy: If you enjoy a kick, add some chopped jalapeños or chili flakes to the meat mixture.
