Pin It A vibrant, tangy-sweet Bavarian side dish featuring tender red cabbage and apples, ready in just 20 minutes. Perfect alongside roasted meats or as part of a festive German meal.
This dish combines traditional Bavarian flavors in a quick and easy way I love to serve with roasted meats for family dinners.
Ingredients
- 1 small red cabbage: about 600 g, finely shredded
- 2 medium apples: e.g., Braeburn or Granny Smith, peeled, cored, and sliced thin
- 1 small red onion: finely sliced
- 3 tbsp apple cider vinegar:
- 2 tbsp brown sugar:
- 1/2 tsp salt:
- 1/4 tsp ground black pepper:
- 1/4 tsp ground cloves:
- 1/2 tsp ground allspice:
- 2 tbsp water:
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter or neutral oil:
Instructions
- Heat butter or oil:
- Heat the butter or oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté onion:
- Add the sliced onion and sauté for 1 2 minutes until softened.
- Cook cabbage and apples:
- Stir in the shredded cabbage and apple slices. Cook, stirring frequently, for 3 4 minutes until the cabbage starts to wilt.
- Add seasonings:
- Sprinkle in the brown sugar, salt, black pepper, cloves, and allspice. Mix well.
- Cook with liquids:
- Add the apple cider vinegar and water. Stir, cover, and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but still vibrant and the flavors are balanced.
- Adjust seasoning:
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm.
Pin It This recipe always brings my family together, especially during the holidays when everyone enjoys traditional German sides.
Required Tools
Large skillet or sauté pan, sharp knife, cutting board, wooden spoon
Allergen Information
Contains dairy if using butter. Use oil for a dairy-free version. Double-check all packaged ingredients for possible allergens.
Nutritional Information
Per serving: Calories 120, Total Fat 5 g, Carbohydrates 20 g, Protein 2 g
Pin It A delightful side that balances sweet and sour perfectly to complement any German feast.
Recipe FAQs
- → How do I keep the cabbage tender but vibrant?
Cook the cabbage over medium heat just until wilted, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to retain its bright color and texture.
- → Can I use other types of apples?
Yes, tart varieties like Braeburn or Granny Smith work well, providing a crisp, tangy contrast to the cabbage.
- → What fats work best for sautéing?
Unsalted butter adds richness, but neutral oils like sunflower or vegetable oil suit dairy-free cooking and avoid overpowering flavors.
- → How can I adjust sweetness and tanginess?
Adjust brown sugar or substitute honey/maple syrup for sweetness. Vinegar level controls tang; add gradually to taste.
- → Is this dish suitable for leftovers?
Yes, flavors deepen after resting and it can be reheated gently without losing texture or taste.
- → What garnishes enhance flavor and texture?
Fresh parsley adds brightness, while toasted walnuts offer a pleasant crunch contrast to the soft cabbage and apples.