Description
A traditional and flavorful German side dish, German Red Cabbage (Rotkohl) is a sweet and sour cabbage dish that pairs perfectly with hearty meats or as part of a vegetarian meal. The combination of red cabbage, apples, and warm spices creates a comforting and delicious side that is a staple in German cuisine.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients:
- 2 Tbsp unsalted butter (or lard)
- 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and finely diced)
- 1 medium onion (finely diced)
- 2 pounds red cabbage (one medium head, thinly sliced)
- 3 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
- 1 cup apple cider (or unsweetened apple juice)
Spices and Seasonings:
- 1 Tbsp lingonberry jam (optional)
- 2 cloves
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 juniper berries (if available)
- 1 Tbsp white sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp pepper
Instructions
- Saute Apples and Onions: In a large Dutch Oven or heavy-bottomed pot, melt butter over medium-high heat. Saute diced apples and onions for 2-3 minutes.
- Add Cabbage and Spices: Add the red cabbage and vinegar, stir to combine. Then add apple cider, cloves, bay leaf, and juniper berries. Season with sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer: Reduce heat to medium, cover the pot, and simmer for 50-60 minutes until the cabbage is soft but not mushy. Stir occasionally and add more apple cider if needed.
- Adjust and Serve: Adjust seasoning to taste and serve hot.
Notes
- Lingonberry jam adds a traditional touch and a slight tartness to the dish.
- This dish tastes even better the next day, making it a great make-ahead option.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: German
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 400mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 2g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
Keywords: German red cabbage, Rotkohl recipe, sweet and sour cabbage, traditional German side dish
