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+ servings

Authentic German Red Cabbage

Learn to make this delicious and hearty German red cabbage recipe featuring tangy vinegar, sweet apple, and warm spices for a perfect side dish.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: German
Calories: 160

Ingredients
  

  • 1/2 large head red cabbage (about 5-6 cups)
  • 1 apple (cut in half)
  • 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 3 Tablespoons water
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 4-5 whole cloves (or 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves)
  • 2 Tablespoons butter

Equipment

  • Medium-sized heavy pot
  • Knife
  • Grater

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
  1. Cut the cabbage into thin slices (approximately 1/8–1/4 inch thick). Grate half of the apple and poke the whole cloves into the other half of the apple.
Step 2: Layer the Cabbage
  1. Add half of the shredded cabbage to a medium-sized heavy pot. Top with the grated apple and the clove-studded apple.
Step 3: Mix the Spices and Liquids
  1. Combine vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Pour this mixture evenly over the cabbage layers.
Step 4: Add Butter and Cook
  1. Place the butter on top of the cabbage mixture, cover the pot with a lid, and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to a simmer and let it cook for 1 1/2 to 2 hours.
Step 5: Remove and Serve
  1. Remove the clove-studded apple and discard. Stir the cabbage mixture and serve warm.

Nutrition

Calories: 160kcalCarbohydrates: 24gProtein: 2gFat: 6gSaturated Fat: 3.5gCholesterol: 15mgSodium: 780mgPotassium: 220mgFiber: 3gSugar: 18gVitamin A: 320IUVitamin C: 60mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 0.7mg

Notes

This authentic German red cabbage recipe is a versatile and flavorful side dish perfect for pairing with meats or vegetarian meals. Nutrition information is estimated based on common ingredients and serving sizes and may vary.

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