Braised Red Cabbage With Apples

Published on Mar 14, 2014

  by   Kristina Stosek

8 reviews

Prep Time: 20 minutes Cook Time: 25 minutes Serves: 6
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This Braised Red Cabbage With Apples is a sweet and savory side dish. The combination of apples and maple syrup provides a natural sweetness that perfectly complements the slightly tangy apple cider vinegar and the earthy tones of caraway seeds. The red cabbage becomes tender yet retains a slight crunch, offering a good texture that pairs well with the soft, caramelized onions.

braised red cabbage with apples in a bowl

 

Why You’ll Love It:

This dish is not just about flavor—it’s about making healthy eating enjoyable and effortless. The combination of ingredients brings out the best in each other, creating a dish that is comforting and tasty. The natural sweetness of the apples and maple syrup balances out the tanginess of the vinegar, while the caraway seeds and nutmeg add a subtle complexity that elevates the dish to a new level.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is straightforward and forgiving. It’s a great way to introduce more vegetables to your diet without sacrificing taste. Plus, the vibrant color of red cabbage adds a pop of visual appeal to your meal, making it as delightful to the eyes as it is to the taste buds.

Key Ingredients: The Recipe

  1.  extra virgin olive oil
  2.  onion
  3.  red cabbage head
  4. apples
  5. GF caraway seeds
  6. GF ground nutmeg
  7. apple cider vinegar
  8. pure maple syrup or sweetener of choice

Cooking Tips:

Choose the Right Apples: Gala apples are sweet and firm, making them ideal for this recipe. If you prefer a tart flavor, consider using Granny Smith apples instead.

Adjust Sweetness: If you like your dish on the sweeter side, you can increase the amount of maple syrup slightly. Conversely, reduce it if you prefer a more savory profile.

Sautéing Onions: Ensure the onions are well-cooked and translucent before adding the cabbage. This caramelization adds depth to the overall flavor.

Texture Check: Keep an eye on the cabbage as it cooks. If you prefer a bit more crunch, reduce the cooking time slightly. For a softer texture, cook a bit longer.

Batch Cooking: This dish can be made in larger quantities and stored in the fridge for up to a week. It also freezes well, making it a great option for meal prep.

raw shredded red cabbage

Braised Savory Sweet Red Cabbage With Apples: Wholesome Goodness

  • Red cabbage is low in calories and high in essential vitamins and minerals. The addition of apples and maple syrup provides natural sweetness along with additional nutrients without the need for refined sugars. 
  • Naturally Gluten-Free: This dish is inherently gluten-free, making it a great choice for those with dietary restrictions or sensitivities.
  • Nutrient-Rich: Red cabbage is a powerhouse of vitamins C and K, along with fiber and antioxidants. Apples add natural sweetness and additional nutrients.
  • Quick and Easy: The preparation is straightforward, and cooking time is minimal, making it ideal for busy schedules.
  • Versatile Side Dish: This dish complements a variety of main courses, from roasted meats to vegan dishes. It can easily be adapted to suit different tastes and dietary needs.

Serving Ideas

Braised red cabbage with apples is a popular Eastern European dish. It is often served with the following:

stuffed pork tenderloin

schnitzel

Honey Garlic Roasted Chicken with Basil Butter Noodles

chicken a l’orange

Gourmet Pork Rib Roast

Peking-Style Chicken

overview of thinly sliced braised cabbage with apples in a bowl

 

Braised Red Cabbage With Apples: Recipe Review

This savory sweet red cabbage and apple recipe is a fantastic addition to any meal plan. Its simplicity, combined with the natural flavors and nutritional benefits, makes it a winner in both taste and health. 

With its ease of preparation and versatility, you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe time and time again. Enjoy!

 

 

Leave a Comment

Kristina

Hi Lucy, I am so happy to hear that you enjoyed this recipe. Yes, you can print it, when you scroll down past the image, there is a print tab. Thank you.

Lucy B

We very much enjoyed this recipe. The apples add an excellent texture and taste contrast to the cabbage & onions. I didn't have caraway so used ground cumin, and it was still good. I checked and cabbage can be frozen, which means that this will be good for our GF-low-histamine diet. Is there a way to print this - including a photo - so we can add it to our favorite recipes binder?

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