Sweet and Sour Red Cabbage
A vibrant and flavorful side dish of tender braised red cabbage, perfectly balanced with sweet apples and tangy vinegar. This German-American classic, known as Rotkohl, is the perfect accompaniment to roasted meats, sausages, and holiday feasts.
For 6 servings
6 steps. 70 minutes total.
- 1
Prepare the vegetables
- a.Using a sharp knife or a mandoline, thinly slice the red cabbage, discarding the tough core. Finely chop the onion. Peel, core, and grate the apple.
- 2
Step 2
- a.In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Add the sliced cabbage to the pot in batches, stirring after each addition to help it wilt slightly. Once all the cabbage is in, add the grated apple, brown sugar, water, bay leaf, ground cloves, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until well combined.
- 4
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer
- a.Once simmering, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot tightly, and let it braise for 50 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- 5
After 50 minutes, stir in the apple cider vinegar
- a.Continue to cook, covered, for another 15-20 minutes, or until the cabbage is very tender and the flavors have melded.
- 6
Remove the pot from the heat and discard the bay leaf
- a.Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed—you may want more salt for savoriness, sugar for sweetness, or vinegar for tang. Serve warm.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For perfectly uniform slices, use a mandoline to shred the cabbage. Be sure to use the safety guard.
- 2This dish develops more flavor as it sits. It's an excellent make-ahead side dish and tastes even better the next day.
- 3Don't add the vinegar until the end of the cooking process. The acid can prevent the cabbage from becoming fully tender if added too early, but adding it late helps preserve its vibrant color.
- 4For a richer, more decadent flavor, use bacon fat instead of vegetable oil and add some crispy bacon bits at the end.
Adapt it for your goals.
Traditional German
Add 1/2 teaspoon of caraway seeds and 4-5 whole juniper berries along with the other spices for a more authentic German flavor profile.
Fruity TwistFruity Twist
Substitute half of the water with red wine or apple juice. Add a tablespoon of redcurrant jelly at the end for a glossy finish and extra sweetness.
Holiday SpiceHoliday Spice
Add a cinnamon stick and 2-3 whole allspice berries to the pot during braising for a warm, festive aroma.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Red cabbage is loaded with anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that give it its vibrant color and help protect the body against cellular damage.
Supports Digestive Health
The high fiber content in cabbage promotes regular bowel movements and supports a healthy gut microbiome.
Boosts Immunity
This dish is an excellent source of Vitamin C, a crucial nutrient for a strong immune system and healthy skin.
Promotes Bone Health
Red cabbage is a good source of Vitamin K, which plays a vital role in bone metabolism and blood clotting.
Frequently asked questions
One serving of this Sweet and Sour Red Cabbage contains approximately 150 calories, making it a light and healthy side dish.