Jeanette’s Amazing German Red Cabbage
Shruthi
A sweet and tangy braised red cabbage dish flavored with apples, vinegar, onions, and spices, ideal for pairing with meat dishes.
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 1 hour hr
Total Time 1 hour hr 15 minutes mins
Course Side Dish
Cuisine European, german
- 1 medium head red cabbage, shredded
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 large onion, thinly sliced
- 2 apples, peeled and sliced
- 1/2 cup vinegar (apple cider or red wine)
- 1/4 cup sugar (adjust to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves (optional)
- 1/2 cup water
Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat.
Add onions and cook until soft and translucent.
Stir in apples and cook for 2–3 minutes.
Add shredded cabbage, vinegar, sugar, salt, pepper, and cloves. Mix well.
Pour in water, cover, and simmer over low heat for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
Taste and adjust seasoning with more sugar or vinegar if needed.
Serve warm alongside meats, potatoes, or dumplings.
- Red cabbage tastes even better the next day as flavours deepen.
- Adjust sugar and vinegar to balance sweet and tangy flavour.
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent burning.
- Apples add natural sweetness and depth.
- Serve warm for the best flavour.
Keyword braised cabbage, German red cabbage, Rotkohl recipe, sweet and sour cabbage, traditional German side dish