Braised Red Cabbage is a delicious side dish that adds a pop of color and flavor to any meal. This dish combines the natural sweetness of apples with the tangy taste of red cabbage, creating a delightful balance that can complement a variety of main courses. It’s an easy recipe that brings warmth and comfort to your dinner table.
Why Make This Recipe
Making Braised Red Cabbage is a great idea for several reasons. First, it is simple and quick to prepare, requiring only a few fresh ingredients. Second, this dish is full of nutrients and adds valuable fiber to your diet. Third, its sweet and tangy flavor pairs perfectly with meats like roast beef, pork, or sausages. Plus, it’s a great way to use seasonal produce!
How to Make Braised Red Cabbage
Ingredients:
- 1 medium red cabbage, shredded
- 2 apples, peeled and diced
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup apple juice or water
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 2 tablespoons butter
Directions:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and sauté until they become translucent.
- Add the shredded red cabbage and diced apples to the pot, stirring to combine them well.
- Pour in the red wine vinegar and apple juice (or water), mixing everything together.
- Stir in the sugar, salt, black pepper, cloves, and cinnamon.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Before serving, add the butter and mix well. Enjoy this dish warm alongside roasts or sausages!
How to Serve Braised Red Cabbage
Serve Braised Red Cabbage warm as a side dish. It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats, sausages, or even as a topping on a hearty sandwich. You can also garnish it with fresh herbs for an added touch.
How to Store Braised Red Cabbage
If you have leftovers, store the Braised Red Cabbage in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3 to 4 days. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving again.
Tips to Make Braised Red Cabbage
- Make sure to slice the cabbage and apples evenly for consistent cooking.
- If you prefer a sweeter dish, you can add a bit more sugar for extra flavor.
- Feel free to adjust the spices according to your personal taste preferences.
Variation
You can add other ingredients to customize your Braised Red Cabbage. For example, consider adding a handful of raisins for added sweetness or some chopped nuts for a bit of crunch.
FAQs
Can I use green cabbage instead of red cabbage?
Yes, you can use green cabbage, but the flavor and color will be different. Red cabbage adds a unique taste and vibrant color to the dish.
Can I make Braised Red Cabbage ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish actually tastes better the next day as the flavors deepen. Just store it in the refrigerator until you are ready to serve.
Is Braised Red Cabbage vegan?
Yes, this recipe is mostly vegan, but if you want to make it fully vegan, simply omit the butter or replace it with a plant-based alternative.
Enjoy making and sharing this lovely dish!
