red cabbage and apple recipe

The Best red cabbage and apple recipe

I’ve been making this red cabbage and apple recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. The dish is a staple in many European cuisines, particularly in Germany and Austria, where it’s known as ‘rohkaltsch’.

The combination of sweet and sour flavors, along with the crunchy texture of the cabbage and apples, makes it a perfect side dish for any occasion. I love how easy it is to prepare, simply by sautΓ©ing the ingredients in butter until they’re tender and caramelized.

The key technique is to cook the cabbage slowly over low heat, allowing it to retain its texture while still absorbing all the flavors from the butter and spices. This technique is essential to achieving the right balance of flavors in this recipe.

I’ve found that this dish pairs well with roasted meats, stews, or even as a vegetarian option on its own. My kids love helping me prepare this recipe, as it’s a fun and interactive process that teaches them about different flavors and textures.

We often have this recipe at family gatherings, as it’s an easy and delicious option that everyone can enjoy. One of the best things about this recipe is its health benefits – the antioxidants in the cabbage and apples make it a nutritious addition to our meals.

Plus, the slow-cooked method makes it easy to digest, even for those with sensitive stomachs.

Braised Red Cabbage with Apples

4.8 from 631 votes

This braised red cabbage with apples is a classic German side dish that pairs perfectly with roasted meats or sausages. The combination of sweet apples, tangy vinegar, and warm spices creates a flavorful and comforting dish.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time45 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hour
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 180 kcal

πŸ₯˜Ingredients

For the Braised Red Cabbage

1 medium head red cabbage (about 2 pounds), cored and thinly sliced
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 medium onion, thinly sliced
2 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Braeburn), peeled, cored, and sliced into 1/4-inch thick wedges
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
2 tablespoons brown sugar
1/2 cup apple juice or water
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1 bay leaf

πŸ‘¨β€πŸ³Directions

1Melt the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2Add the sliced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3Add the sliced red cabbage, apples, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, apple juice, salt, pepper, cloves, and bay leaf to the pot.
4Stir everything together until well combined.
5Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low.
6Cover the pot and let it cook gently for 35 to 40 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is very tender and the flavors have melded.
7Remove the bay leaf and taste the cabbage.
8Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or a splash of vinegar if desired.
9Serve warm as a side dish.

πŸ”§Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven with lid
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon

πŸ“ŠNutrition Facts (per serving)

πŸ”₯Calories: 180 kcal🧈Total Fat: 5gπŸ’›Saturated Fat: 3g❀️Cholesterol: 10mgπŸ§‚Sodium: 420mg🌾Total Carbs: 34gπŸ₯¦Dietary Fiber: 5g🍬Sugars: 22gπŸ₯©Protein: 3g

πŸ“Notes

For a richer flavor, you can substitute the apple juice with dry red wine. This dish can be made a day ahead and reheated gently, as the flavors continue to develop.

Watch Video Of How Braised Red Cabbage with Apples Works

This red cabbage and apple recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just need a quick weeknight meal. One of my favorite things about this recipe is its versatility – you can serve it hot or cold, making it perfect for potlucks or picnics.

To store leftovers, simply refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to 5 days. When reheating, add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to bring out the flavors once again.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Braised Red Cabbage with Apples

Q: What type of apples are best for this recipe?

A: For this recipe, you’ll want to use a mix of sweet and tart apples, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. The sweetness will balance out the earthiness of the cabbage.

Q: Can I use other types of cabbage for this recipe?

A: While traditional red cabbage is ideal for this recipe, you can also use green cabbage or even bok choy if you prefer. However, keep in mind that these alternatives may have a slightly different flavor profile.

Q: How long does this recipe take to prepare?

A: This recipe is quick to prepare – simply chop up your ingredients and sautΓ© them in butter until they’re tender. The slow-cooking method makes it easy to fit into a busy schedule.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes! You can prepare this recipe up to a day in advance – simply store it in an airtight container in the fridge until you’re ready to serve.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

A: Yes! This recipe is a great option for vegetarians – simply omit any meat-based additions and enjoy as a standalone dish.

Q: Can I freeze this recipe for later use?

A: Yes! You can freeze individual portions of this recipe for up to 3 months – simply thaw and reheat when you’re ready.

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