I like to serve these traditional recipes on my show because people are often amazed at how easy they are to create at home. A lot of people I know have enjoyed Cabbage & Rice at our restaurants and they automatically think it is complicated because of the great flavor. On the contrary – it's simple! As I’ve said before, a lot of our traditional recipes come from simple foods that were grown in the garden or easy to access. So much of Mediterranean cuisine is made from lovely, homegrown ingredients, which is what makes it so healthy and delicious.
Cabbage & Rice has very few ingredients and I’m sure it was originally made with ingredients straight from the garden. I like to serve it as a side dish because it is truly, very easy to prepare and often replaces me having a salad with dinner that evening. My kids also like it because they aren’t completely sold on eating cabbage salad all the time, this is a nice way to have them eat their greens in a slightly different way. I typically buy rice in very big bags and have made this with traditional white rice, jasmine, or basmati. It all tastes fantastic!
To round out the meal I typically serve a protein like grilled chicken or a roast fish. You can also easily double or triple this recipe and serve it to a larger group in a bowl on a buffet. You can’t go wrong when it comes to including it at the holidays because it pairs well with just about anything.
You’ll enjoy this recipe, I can guarantee it. If you have any questions or concerns simply leave a comment below and I’ll reply. This is one of those great comfort food recipes that you’re bound to enjoy with your family for years to come!
Cabbage and Rice
This is a delicious vegetarian side dish any time of year. I love making it for my family because it’s a great way to serve kids cabbage without them groaning about eating more salad. It’s made from easy-to-find ingredients and is a wonderful addition to any meal!
Makes 4 servings
½ cup olive oil
½ Green Cabbage (stripped)
3 Tbsp Tomato Paste
4 tsp Salt
1/2 tsp Pepper
3 cups water
2 cups vegetable stock
1 cup long grain rice
Heat the oil in a large saute pan with high sides and add the cabbage.
Add salt and pepper and sauté the cabbage about 6 minutes, or until it’s softened.
Add the 4 tbsp of tomato paste and sauté until everything is combined.
Add 3 cups of water and 2 cups vegetable stock to the pan and mix everything together.
When the water comes to a boil, add the rice and stir it into the liquid.
Mix the rice into the cabbage mixture then cover and lower the heat.
Allow the rice to simmer for about 30 minutes, or until it’s cooked.
Nikki Glekas is the owner of Nikki Glekas Events, a full-service catering and events company located in Stamford, CT.. To discuss further please contact team@nikkiglekascollective.com or call 203.658.8659.