1 lb. hamburger
1 med. onion, peeled & finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, peeled & minced
1 (16 oz.) can tomato sauce
1/4 c. applesauce
3 tbsp. cider vinegar
2 tbsp. brown sugar
1/4 tsp. dried leaf thyme
Pinch of black pepper
4 1/2 c. finely shredded cabbage (1 lb.)

In a large saucepan over medium heat, brown the hamburger, breaking it into pieces. As it browns, add onion and garlic. Continue to cook until meat is brown and onion is tender. Drain and discard fat.

Return pan to medium heat. Add tomato sauce, applesauce, vinegar, brown sugar, thyme and pepper to meat mixture in pan; mix well. Bring mixture to a boil, stirring constantly. Stir in cabbage. Reduce heat and simmer, covered for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cabbage is very tender. If sauce is too thin, uncover and cook for a few minutes to reduce the sauce.