Beef-cabbage Loaf (Lihakaalilaatikko)

Beef-cabbage Loaf (Lihakaalilaatikko), originally uploaded by Lakenvelder.

This is a quick Finnish casserole for when you are short on time. It has the same flavors as cabbage rolls but can be made in twenty minutes for less.


6 servings

1 medium head cabbage, coarsely shredded (8 cups)
1/4 cup water
1/4 teaspoon salt
1 pound ground beef
1 cups soft bread crumbs (about 1 1/2 slices)
1/2 cup milk
1 small onion
1 egg
1 1/2 teaspoons salt
1/4 teaspoon pepper
1/4 teaspoon dried marjoram leaves

Heat the cabbage, water and 1/4 teaspoon salt to boiling; reduce heat. Cover and simmer until cabbage is wilted, about 5 minutes, drain. Mix remaining ingredients.

Place half the cabbage in ungreased 2-quart casserole. Spread beef mixture over cabbage; top with remaining cabbage. Cover and cook in 350 F oven until done, 55 to 60 minutes. Serve with cranberry sauce and creamed potatoes, if desired.