Are you looking for a quick, healthy, and surprisingly delicious dinner recipe? Look no further! This apples and cabbage recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a truly satisfying and flavorful meal. It's a fantastic option for busy weeknights, offering a delightful blend of sweet and savory notes that will please even the pickiest eaters. This easy recipe is perfect for homemade cooking, making it a go-to for healthy meals and quick dinner ideas. Let's get started!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 medium apples (such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp), cored and thinly sliced
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a touch of heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth (optional, for extra moisture)
Instructions:
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Sauté the onion: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
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Add the apples and spices: Stir in the sliced apples, cumin, coriander, cinnamon, and red pepper flakes (if using). Cook for another 3-5 minutes, until the apples start to soften slightly.
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Incorporate the cabbage: Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet. Stir well to combine everything.
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Simmer and enjoy: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the mixture simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and slightly wilted. Stir occasionally. If the mixture seems too dry, add the chicken or vegetable broth during the last few minutes of cooking. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Tips for the Best Apples and Cabbage:
- Apple Selection: Granny Smith apples are ideal for this recipe due to their tartness, which balances the sweetness of the cabbage. However, Honeycrisp or other firm, slightly tart apples will also work well.
- Cabbage Preparation: Thinly slicing the cabbage ensures it cooks evenly and quickly. Use a mandoline slicer or sharp knife for consistent results.
- Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your preferred level of spiciness. You can omit them entirely for a milder dish.
- Serving Suggestions: This delicious dish can be served as a side dish or a light vegetarian main course. It pairs perfectly with roasted chicken, pork, or fish.
Variations:
- Add Protein: Boost the protein content by adding cooked sausage, bacon, or chickpeas to the skillet along with the cabbage.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs like thyme or sage would complement the flavors beautifully. Add a tablespoon or two towards the end of cooking.
- Caramelized Onions: For extra depth of flavor, caramelize the onions before adding the apples and spices.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 5-10g
- Protein: 3-5g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
- Fiber: 5-7g
This apples and cabbage recipe is a testament to the versatility and deliciousness of simple, wholesome ingredients. It's a quick and easy recipe perfect for busy weeknights, making it a valuable addition to your repertoire of best recipes. Enjoy!