This traditional German red cabbage dish transforms simple ingredients into a deep, complex side dish. The bitterness of the red cabbage is beautifully balanced by the sweetness of apples and the savory smokiness of bacon. Infused with aromatic cloves and brightened with a touch of lemon juice, this recipe offers a tender texture and robust flavor that pairs perfectly with roasted meats or sausages. It is a comforting, home-style meal that improves with time, making it an ideal choice for holiday gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.
Jan’S German Red Cabbage
Description
This traditional German red cabbage dish transforms simple ingredients into a deep, complex side dish. The bitterness of the red cabbage is beautifully balanced by the sweetness of apples and the savory smokiness of bacon. Infused with aromatic cloves and brightened with a touch of lemon juice, this recipe offers a tender texture and robust flavor that pairs perfectly with roasted meats or sausages. It is a comforting, home-style meal that improves with time, making it an ideal choice for holiday gatherings or cozy weeknight dinners.Ingredients
Directions
-
Cut the bacon into small pieces.
-
Fry the bacon slowly in the bottom of a large pot until crisp.
-
Peel the onion and pierce it with the cloves.
-
Add the clove-studded onion to the pot with the bacon fat.
-
Cut the cabbage into rough bite-sized chunks.
-
Add the cabbage to the pot.
-
Add enough water to come halfway up the sides of the cabbage.
-
Bring the water to a boil over high heat.
-
Quarter, core, and peel the apples.
-
Add the apple pieces and about 1/2 teaspoon of salt to the pot.
-
Sprinkle the lemon juice over the mixture.
-
Reduce heat to low and cover the pot.
-
Simmer for 10 minutes.
-
Stir the cabbage and apples gently.
-
Cover and continue to simmer for another 10 minutes.
-
Continue cooking until cabbage is tender, stirring occasionally.
-
Serve as is, or thicken the cooking liquid with cornstarch and stir back in for a richer sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 218.4kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 12.2g19%
- Saturated Fat 4.0g20%
- Cholesterol 13.1mg5%
- Sodium 493.7mg21%
- Total Carbohydrate 17.2g6%
- Dietary Fiber 3.3g14%
- Sugars 11.2g
- Protein 11.4g23%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
For a richer flavor, you can substitute some of the water with apple cider or red wine.
The cabbage can be made ahead and reheated; the flavors often improve after sitting for a day.
If you prefer a thicker consistency, remove the liquid before serving or thicken it with a cornstarch slurry as directed.
