Braised Red Cabbage with Apples & Balsamic Glaze
Cooking cabbage? My Braised Red Cabbage with Apples & Balsamic Glaze is a game-changer! Sweet, tangy, and SO easy. Get the recipe now for a proper treat!

Right then, let’s dive into this cracking braised red cabbage with apples and balsamic glaze . fancy a side dish that’s both posh and proper delicious? this recipe for cooking cabbage is a winner! it’s a doddle to make once you’ve had a go at it, honestly.
Sweet, Sour, Savory: The Cabbage Trifecta!
This isn't just any cabbage recipe . it's a delightful dance of sweet, tart, and savory flavors. think traditional european winter fare, but jazzed up.
Originating from hearty european traditions, this dish gets a lift with crisp apples and a tangy balsamic glaze. think christmas dinner meets a fancy sunday roast, innit? it is the perfect side dish for roasts or sausages.
It even works for a vegetarian feast. it’s easy too, so beginners will enjoy this easy chinese recipe .
From the Continent to Your Kitchen.
This cabbage dish has roots deep in european cooking. the dish is traditionally cooked in germany, so it's definitely an authentic asian cooking experience.
You can whip up a batch in under two hours, with only 20 minutes of actual work. this recipe makes 6-8 servings.
That's grand for a family meal, or even a small dinner party.
Cabbage: Good For You, Good For the Soul.
But why bother with cabbage , you ask? cabbage is packed with goodness. it's a great source of vitamin c and fiber.
Plus, this recipe is perfect for those autumn and winter months. it will warm you right up! what makes this cabbage stir fry special? it's the balsamic glaze, of course! that sweet, tangy kick takes it from ordinary to extraordinary.
Let's move onto the ingredients, shall we?
Alright, let's dive into what you'll need to make this amazing braised red cabbage recipes healthy dish! trust me, even if you think you don't like cabbage recipes , this will change your mind.
I promise!
Ingredients & Equipment
Main Ingredients
Right, so for the cabbage itself, you'll need one medium red cabbage , about 2 lbs (900g) . make sure it's nice and firm, and a good deep colour, that's quality, innit.
You also need 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of olive oil, one large yellow onion – about 8 oz (225g) . and 2 granny smith apples , you know, the green ones, about 12 oz (340g) .
I love granny smiths; they add that tangy zing.
You'll also need 1/4 cup (60 ml) of apple cider vinegar and the same amount of packed brown sugar, about 50g .
Don't skimp on the spices, either. get yourself 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of caraway seeds, 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) of ground cinnamon, and 1/4 teaspoon (1.
25 ml) of ground cloves. finally, you'll need 1/2 cup (120 ml) of vegetable broth. salt and pepper, of course, to taste!
Seasoning Notes
Okay, so the magic here is in how the spices play together. caraway, cinnamon, and cloves? chefs kiss! it’s what makes this beef dinner shine.
Think about a chinese cooking recipes , but with cabbage. if you don't have caraway, a pinch of fennel seeds will do in a pinch.
For a kick, add a tiny pinch of chilli flakes! it is easy to make easy chinese recipes with beef.
If you want a change, consider Cabbage Stir Fry with beef, or just on its own!
Equipment Needed
Honestly, nothing fancy. just a large dutch oven or a heavy-bottomed pot with a lid. it is essential to do cooking cabbage properly.
A sharp knife and a cutting board are key too. if you don't have a dutch oven, any large pot will do, but make sure it has a lid.
Now, let's talk about beef dishes . i actually made this last week and served it with some roasted beef recipes easy , bloody delicious.
You could also serve this with beef recipes for dinner , like sausages. i’ve even had it with a sunday roast! this recipe is great as is but can easily be worked into your style of chinese cooking or even asian cooking ! this really is something else, honestly.
You won’t regret it!
Alright, let's have a crack at this braised red cabbage recipe. honestly, even if you think you don't like cabbage, this one might just change your mind.
I'm telling you, it's proper good!
Braised Red Cabbage with Apples & Balsamic Glaze Recipe Card

⚖️ Ingredients:
- 1 medium red cabbage (about 2 lbs/900g), cored and thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (30 ml)
- 1 large yellow onion (about 8 oz/225g), thinly sliced
- 2 Granny Smith apples (about 12 oz/340g), peeled, cored, and diced
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar (60 ml)
- 1/4 cup packed brown sugar (50g)
- 1 teaspoon caraway seeds (5 ml)
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon (2.5 ml)
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves (1.25 ml)
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth (120 ml)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar (120 ml)
- 1 tablespoon honey (15 ml)
🥄 Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in the Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Add the diced apples, caraway seeds, cinnamon, and cloves. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the sliced red cabbage to the pot. Season with salt and pepper.
- Pour in the apple cider vinegar and vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer. Stir in the brown sugar.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the liquid has reduced. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- While the cabbage is braising, combine balsamic vinegar and honey in a small saucepan. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the glaze has thickened slightly.
- Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the braised cabbage just before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Cooking Cabbage Like a Pro: Braised Red Cabbage with Apples and Balsamic Glaze
This isn't just cabbage . it's an experience! think sweet, tangy, and a little bit posh. imagine christmas dinner, but you can have it any time you fancy.
This cabbage recipes healthy dish is a game-changer. the recipe hails from traditional european winter cooking but gets a modern twist with apples and balsamic.
Prep Steps: Get Your Ducks in a Row!
First things first, mise en place , darling! get everything chopped and ready. this bit takes about 20 minutes . it will save you a headache later.
Thinly slice 1 medium red cabbage. dice 2 granny smith apples. thinly slice 1 large yellow onion. honestly, a mandoline for the cabbage makes life so much easier.
Time-saving organization is key! safety first, though - watch your fingers!
Step-by-Step: Easy Peasy Cooking Cabbage
Alright, here's how to turn those chopped bits into magic.
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion. Cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes .
- Apples and Spice: Chuck in the diced apples, 1 teaspoon caraway seeds, 0.5 teaspoon ground cinnamon, and 0.25 teaspoon ground cloves. Cook for 2- 3 minutes , stirring now and then.
- Cabbage In! Add the sliced red cabbage. Season with salt and pepper.
- Deglaze and Braise: Pour in 0.25 cup apple cider vinegar and 0.5 cup vegetable broth. Bring to a simmer. Stir in 0.25 cup packed brown sugar.
- Simmer Down: Reduce heat to low. Cover the pot. Simmer for 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes . Stir occasionally. You want that cabbage tender, not mushy.
- Balsamic Magic: While the cabbage is doing its thing, make the glaze. Combine 0.5 cup balsamic vinegar and 1 tablespoon honey in a small saucepan. Simmer for 5- 7 minutes , until thickened.
- Drizzle and Serve: Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the cooking cabbage just before serving. Taste and season if needed.
Pro Tips: Secrets from My Kitchen
- Thin is in! : Thin cabbage cooks evenly.
- Don't be mushy! A little bite is good .
- Taste as you go! Adjust sweetness to your taste.
- Make ahead : this Beef Dinner dish can be made a day or two ahead.
Honestly, serving up with a bit of crème fraîche? top-notch. this isn't just a side, it's a star and one of the most perfect cabbage recipes .
The secret ingredient to this chinese cooking dish is the balance! sweet, tart, savory... it's got it all. it's way easier than most easy chinese recipes you find.
Plus, it's a fantastic side for beef recipes for dinner or even some fancy beef dishes . give it a go, you might just surprise yourself!

Right then, let's dive into the nitty-gritty! This Braised Red Cabbage recipe is pretty straightforward, but here are a few extra bits to make it top-notch.
Recipe Notes for Cracking Cabbage Recipes
Honestly, getting this right is easier than you think. It's all about the prep and the braising, so let's look at a few key points. First up, serving ideas!
Ace Serving Suggestions
Think about how you'll plate this up. A nice swirl on a plate? Classy! A big bowl in the middle of the table? Proper family style!
This cooking cabbage dish pairs brilliantly with roast pork. I once served it with some posh sausages and mash. Oh my gosh, it was amazing!
For drinks, a crisp apple cider is a winner. also, a nice glass of red wine works a treat, especially with beef recipes for dinner .
You could even go for a cheeky sherry!
Proper Storage Tips
Got leftovers? Don't chuck 'em! This cabbage recipes healthy dish keeps well.
Pop it in the fridge for up to three days. Just make sure it's in a sealed container. You know? Keeps the fridge smells away!
Freezing? Go for it! It might be a bit softer when you reheat, but still tasty. Reheat gently on the hob or in the microwave.
Awesome Variations
Fancy a twist? Loads of things you can do.
For a vegetarian version, make sure to use a vegetable broth. Boom! You are all set!
Seasonal swap? In autumn, try using a pear instead of an apple. It's a bit different, but lovely.
Nutrition Basics
Alright, let's keep it simple. This braised red cabbage stir fry is packed with vitamins. It also has good fiber, which is great for your gut.
Chinese Cooking Recipes sometimes use cabbage like this, it might be worth it looking into other Easy Chinese Recipes .
This beef dinner is low in fat but high in flavor. not bad, eh? and hey, it is also one of the delicious beef dishes to try with red cabbage recipes , give it a look to these beef recipes easy .
Give this a go, honestly! I think you'll really enjoy it. Don't be afraid to experiment. See what you like. Happy Chinese Cooking , or perhaps, Asian Cooking !

Frequently Asked Questions
How do I prevent my braised red cabbage from turning out mushy?
No one wants mushy cabbage, that's like soggy chips! To avoid this when cooking cabbage, make sure you're thinly slicing it for even cooking and keeping a close eye during the braising process. Start checking for tenderness around the 1-hour mark and remember, a little bit of bite is a good thing. Low and slow cooking is key here.
Can I make this braised red cabbage recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely, this dish is a real "batch cooking" hero! Braised red cabbage tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving, and maybe add a splash of broth if it seems a bit dry.
I don't have apple cider vinegar. What can I substitute when cooking cabbage like this?
Don't you fret! If you're out of apple cider vinegar, white wine vinegar makes a perfectly acceptable substitute for this braised red cabbage recipe. You can also use red wine vinegar in a pinch, but it will impart a slightly different flavor profile – still tasty, though. A squeeze of lemon juice could add a touch of acidity too, though less complex.
Is this braised red cabbage recipe healthy? What are the nutritional benefits?
Indeed, this recipe packs a nutritional punch! Red cabbage is a great source of vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants. Apples add extra fiber and vitamins. The balsamic glaze contributes some sweetness, but you can always adjust the amount of honey to keep it lower in sugar. It’s all about balance, innit?
I’m vegetarian. Any tips for making this braised red cabbage even more exciting?
Smashing question! To liven it up, consider adding some toasted walnuts or pecans for added crunch and richness. A handful of dried cranberries or raisins stirred in during the last 15 minutes of cooking will give it a lovely burst of sweetness and texture. You could also add a dollop of crème fraîche or a sprinkle of crumbled vegetarian cheese like feta or halloumi before serving for some tangy deliciousness. You could even add a splash of sherry when cooking cabbage to up the flavour profile.
Can I freeze leftover braised red cabbage?
You sure can! Braised red cabbage freezes surprisingly well. Just let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag, pressing out any excess air. It'll keep in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When you're ready to use it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed. It's a lifesaver for a quick and tasty side dish.
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