Cajun Cabbage

This recipe may sound odd, but it's DELICIOUS!

1 lb ground beef
1 medium green pepper, chopped
1 medium onion, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (10 oz) diced tomatoes and green chilis*
1 can (8 oz) tomato sauce
1/2 c uncooked long grain rice**
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp pepper***
1 small head cabbage, chopped
1 c (4 oz) shredded cheddar cheese

In a skillet, brown beef with green pepper, onion, and garlic til vegetables are tender; drain. Stir in tomatoes, tomato sauce, rice, and seasonings. Spread into an ungreased 13x9" baking dish. Top with the cabbage and cheese. Cover and bake at 350 degrees for 65-75 min**** or til rice is tender. Makes 6-8 servings.

*If desired, replace with 1 can (10 3/4 oz) diced tomatoes to decrease spiciness.
**If using brown rice, add 1 c water to dish when you add rice.
***If desired, replace with 1/4-1/2 tsp pepper to decrease spiciness.
****If using brown rice, you may need to add 10-20 min additional cooking time.