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Delicious German Red Cabbage (Rotkohl) served as a traditional side dish with apples and spices.

German Red Cabbage (Rotkohl)

This sweet and tangy side dish of German red cabbage is easy to prepare and perfect for brightening up any winter meal. It's budget-friendly, forgiving, and tastes even better the next day!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: German
Calories: 80
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main Ingredients
  • 1 medium head Red cabbage, thinly sliced One medium head is perfect.
  • 1 Apple, tart (like Granny Smith), sliced or grated Use a tart variety for best flavor.
  • 1 Onion, yellow or sweet, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon Butter or neutral oil Butter provides a cozy flavor.
  • 1 cup Apple cider vinegar Start with less and adjust for tanginess.
  • 2 tablespoons Brown sugar or honey Adjust to taste for sweetness.
  • to taste teaspoon Salt and pepper Season to your preference.
  • 1 Bay leaf Popular spice for flavor.
  • 1 pinch Cloves or allspice Optional but adds a classic holiday vibe.
  • 1 cup Liquid (water, apple juice, or broth) For cooking the cabbage.

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until translucent.
  2. Stir in the sliced red cabbage and apple, cooking until slightly wilted.
  3. Add apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, bay leaf, cloves/allspice, salt, and pepper. Pour in your choice of liquid (water, apple juice, or broth) until cabbage is just covered.
  4. Bring to a simmer, cover, and cook for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender.
  5. Near the end of cooking, taste and adjust seasoning with more sugar or vinegar, as needed. Let sit for 10 minutes off the heat before serving.

Notes

This recipe improves with time. It can be made ahead and reheated gently. Store in the fridge for up to 5 days, or freeze for later use.