Are you looking for a vibrant and flavorful side dish that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This sweet and sour red cabbage recipe is a delicious and healthy addition to any meal. It's perfect for weeknight dinners, potlucks, or even a fancy holiday spread. Forget boring sides – this recipe is bursting with flavor and texture, and it's ready in under 30 minutes! Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet stunning dish.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium red cabbage, thinly sliced (about 1 pound)
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar
- 1/4 cup water
- 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- 1 teaspoon ground caraway seeds (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: Sauté the Onions
Melt the butter or olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the thinly sliced onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This step builds a wonderful flavor base for the dish.
Step 2: Add the Cabbage and Spices
Add the thinly sliced red cabbage to the skillet with the onions. Stir to combine and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the cabbage to slightly wilt. Then, stir in the caraway seeds, salt, and pepper.
Step 3: Simmer in the Sweet and Sour Mixture
In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, sugar, and water until the sugar dissolves. Pour this mixture over the cabbage and onion in the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender-crisp and the liquid has reduced slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The longer you simmer, the softer the cabbage will become.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the cabbage is cooked to your liking, remove it from the heat and serve warm. This sweet and sour red cabbage pairs perfectly with roasted meats, grilled chicken, sausages, or even as a delightful topping for hearty grain bowls.
Cooking Tips for the Best Sweet and Sour Red Cabbage:
- Thinly slice the cabbage: This ensures even cooking and prevents tough, chewy pieces. A mandoline slicer is helpful, but a sharp knife works well too.
- Don't overcook the cabbage: You want it tender-crisp, not mushy. Adjust cooking time depending on your preference and the thickness of your cabbage slices.
- Adjust sweetness and sourness: Taste the mixture as it simmers and adjust the sugar and vinegar to your liking. You might prefer a bit more tang or sweetness depending on your personal taste.
- Add other spices: Experiment with other spices to enhance the flavor profile. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice kick, while a teaspoon of ground ginger offers a warm, earthy note.
Variations:
- Apple Sweet and Sour Red Cabbage: Add 1/2 cup of diced apple to the skillet along with the onions for extra sweetness and texture.
- Cranberry Sweet and Sour Red Cabbage: Stir in 1/2 cup of dried cranberries during the last 5 minutes of cooking for a festive twist.
- Spicy Sweet and Sour Red Cabbage: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe yields about 6 servings. Nutritional information will vary slightly depending on the ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 5-10g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
- Protein: 2-3g
This delicious and healthy side dish is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the vibrant colors and incredible flavors of this easy-to-make sweet and sour red cabbage!