German Red Cabbage (Rotkohl): A Tangy and Sweet Side Dish
Enhance your meal with the delightful taste of traditional German Red Cabbage, also known as Rotkohl. This tangy and sweet side dish is a staple in German cuisine, offering a perfect balance of flavors that complement a variety of main courses.
Key Ingredients:
- Red Cabbage: Freshly shredded red cabbage forms the base of this dish, providing vibrant color and crisp texture.
- Apples: Sliced apples add a touch of natural sweetness and a hint of tartness.
- Onions: Sautéed onions lend a savory depth to the dish.
- Vinegar: A splash of vinegar gives the cabbage its signature tangy flavor.
- Sugar: A bit of sugar balances the acidity and enhances the overall taste.
- Spices: Traditional spices like cloves, bay leaves, and juniper berries infuse the cabbage with warm, aromatic notes.
Cooking Process:
- Sauté the Onions: Begin by sautéing the onions until they are soft and golden.
- Add the Cabbage and Apples: Stir in the shredded red cabbage and sliced apples, allowing them to meld with the onions.
- Season and Simmer: Add the vinegar, sugar, and spices, then cover and simmer the mixture until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have fully developed.
Serving Suggestions: German Red Cabbage pairs wonderfully with hearty dishes like roast pork, sausages, beef rouladen, and schnitzel. It’s a versatile side that adds a burst of color and a unique flavor profile to any meal.
Savor the traditional taste of Germany with this delicious and easy-to-make side dish. German Red Cabbage is a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire, bringing a touch of tangy sweetness to your dining table.
Ingredients
- 5 cups shredded red cabbage
- 1 cup sliced green apples
- 1/2 cup white onion
- ¼ cup white sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter
- ⅓ cup apple cider vinegar
- 3 tablespoons water
- 2 ¼ teaspoons salt, or to taste
- 2 Bay Leaves
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
- 1/2 Cup Red Wine – Optional (Merlot)
Directions
Gather all ingredients. Sautee Onion in a small amount of oil.
Place cabbage, onion, apples, sugar, and butter into a large pot. Pour in vinegar and water, then add salt, bay leaves, pepper, and cloves. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat. Add red wine (optional).
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until the cabbage is tender, 1 ½ to 2 hours.
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