Omas Sweet and Sour German Red Cabbage Rotkohl
Recipe Introduction
Ever wondered what your Oma was cooking? Well, I've got just the thing! This recipe for German Red Cabbage is like a warm hug.
It’s sweet, it’s sour, and it's totally comforting. Okay, alright then! Let's get this party started.
Oma's Secret: Sweet and Sour Delight
German Red Cabbage , or Rotkohl , is a classic for a reason. It’s the perfect mix of tangy and sweet.
Apples add a touch of sweetness. Vinegar brings that needed sour tang. It's just, Oh my gosh! , a flavour explosion.
This dish has serious roots. It comes straight from German kitchens. Think cozy family dinners and Oktoberfest Recipes . It’s not too hard to make.
You'll need about 2 hours total. This recipe will give you 6-8 servings. Perfect for a small get-together!
Why You'll Love This Rotkohl Recipe
The best part? This Rotkohl Recipe is full of goodness. Cabbage is packed with vitamin C. It's also a good source of fiber.
Serve it up at your next dinner party. It pairs amazingly with sausages. Or, why not alongside a juicy roast? This recipe is special because it's easy.
It's also incredibly delicious. Plus, it reminds me of family. That is how Authentic German Recipes are!
We're gonna need red cabbage, apples, and a few other bits. Make sure you buy quality stuff. It makes all the difference.
Based on that recipe, here's a list of 10 that should help your site get noticed. Let's get this cooking .
This Easy Rotkohl Recipe is about to become your new favourite! Prost! I hope you enjoy!
Ingredients & Equipment: Let’s Do This!
Okay, alright then! Let's get this german red cabbage party started. You know, making Rotkohl Recipe isn’t as scary as it sounds. Honestly, the ingredients are pretty straightforward.
Main Ingredients
- 1 medium red cabbage ( 2 pounds / 900g ), shredded. Look for a firm head. One with a good, deep color.
- 2 medium apples ( 1 pound / 450g ), peeled and chopped. Granny Smiths are my go-to, but Braeburns work too.
- 1 medium yellow onion ( 8 ounces / 225g ), chopped.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter ( 30g ).
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar ( 60ml ). This is key for that Sweet and Sour Red Cabbage taste!
- 1/4 cup granulated sugar ( 50g ).
- 1/4 cup dry red wine ( 60ml ) This is optional, but trust me, it adds a lovely depth.
- 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds ( 2.5ml ).
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves ( 1.25ml ).
- 1 bay leaf.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt ( 2.5ml ), or to taste.
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper ( 1.25ml ), or to taste.
- 1/2 cup water ( 120ml ).
Adding 1/4 cup diced bacon? (optional).
Seasoning Notes: Get That Flavour Right!
Caraway and cloves are the essential spice duo. They give it that Authentic German Recipes vibe. A bay leaf just adds a subtle layer. Don't skip it!
Vinegar is crucial. It balances the sweetness. Don't have apple cider vinegar? Use red wine vinegar instead.
Equipment Needed: Keep it Simple
You'll need a large Dutch oven or a heavy bottomed pot. This is super important for the Braised Red Cabbage .
A good knife is also important. I use this for chopping, especially for shredding the cabbage. If you want a super finely shredded cabbage, a mandoline will be your friend.
That's all you need to make some proper Traditional German Cooking .
Oma's Sweet and Sour German Red Cabbage (Rotkohl) A Taste of Bavaria!
Oh my gosh! Are you ready for some seriously comforting food? Okay, alright then! Let's get this party started.
We're diving headfirst into my Oma's (that's Grandma, for you non-German speakers!) recipe for german red cabbage , or as they say in the old country, Rotkohl Recipe .
Honestly, this Sweet and Sour Red Cabbage is like a warm hug on a plate. It's the perfect German Side Dish to pair with sausages, pork, or even a veggie schnitzel.
It's braised low and slow with apples, vinegar, and spices and is super easy to cook. You know what? Let’s get cooking.
Prep Steps: Getting Your Mise en Place Sorted!
First things first, mise en place . Fancy, right? Basically, just get everything ready. Core and shred 1 medium red cabbage (about 2 pounds).
Peel, core, and chop 2 medium apples . Chop 1 medium yellow onion . This will make cooking easier.
Time saving tip? Shred the cabbage using a mandoline, if you have one. Quick and easy! Just be careful with your fingers!
step-by-step: From Cabbage to Culinary Masterpiece
- Sauté the onion. Melt 2 tablespoons butter in a large pot. Add the chopped onion. Cook for 5- 7 minutes until soft.
- Add cabbage and apples. Throw in the shredded red cabbage and chopped apples .
- Season and simmer. Stir in 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar, 1/4 cup sugar, 1/4 cup red wine (optional, but amazing), 1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds, 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves, 1 bay leaf , 1/2 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon pepper, and 1/2 cup water.
- Braise low and slow. Bring to a simmer, then reduce heat to low. Cover and braise for 1 hour 30 minutes , stirring now and then.
- Season to taste. Remove the bay leaf. Taste and add more salt or sugar if needed.
Pro Tips: Nailing That Authentic Flavor!
Want to really impress? Don't rush the braising! Low and slow is key for authentic german recipes .
One of the most common mistakes? Overcooking! Ensure the red cabbage with apples remains a little bit juicy.
make-ahead option? Absolutely! This easy rotkohl recipe is even better the next day. Store it in the fridge for up to 3 days .
Leftovers are awesome! I can't tell you how good this is. I would eat this every day with potato dumplins.
That's real traditional german cooking !. And this is not only for Oktoberfest recipes , this is for every single day!
So there you have it! Oma's Sweet and Sour German Red Cabbage. Enjoy!
Recipe Notes: Let's Talk About This German Red Cabbage
Okay, alright then! Let's get this party started!
This Oma's Sweet and Sour German Red Cabbage (Rotkohl) , is more than just a recipe. It's a hug in a bowl, and is such an authentic German recipes .
Trust me, I've made it a million times! Want to make the best german red cabbage ? Then keep reading.
Plating Power & Perfect Pairings
Honestly, presentation matters. Mound your rotkohl recipe in a nice bowl. Garnish with a sprig of parsley for a pop of green.
For sides, think hearty. German Side Dish perfection with creamy mashed potatoes or crusty bread. A crisp German beer. (Prost!)
Storing Secrets & Reheating Rituals
Leftovers? Winning! Keep your sweet and sour red cabbage in the fridge. An airtight container for up to 3 days is fine.
Reheat gently on the stovetop. A splash of water if it seems dry, okay? Freezing isn't recommended.
Variations: Remixing Rotkohl
Want to tweak it? Go for it! For a vegetarian twist, skip the bacon. Swap apples for pears for a fun twist.
Nutrition Nuggets: Goodness in Every Bite
This braised red cabbage is packed with vitamins and fiber. It is also low in fat. The spices add antioxidants. Eating your veggies never tasted so good.
Honestly? Making easy rotkohl recipe feels like a bit of magic. Embrace the process. Experiment with flavours. You've got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is German Red Cabbage, and what makes it so special?
German Red Cabbage, often called Rotkohl or Blaukraut, is a classic German side dish made with red cabbage braised with apples, vinegar, and spices. Its sweet and sour flavour profile makes it a fantastic counterpoint to rich, savory meats like sausages or roast pork.
It's a bit like the culinary equivalent of a warm hug from your Oma, especially comforting during the colder months!
Can I make German Red Cabbage ahead of time? I'm a busy bee!
Absolutely! In fact, german red cabbage often tastes even better the next day. The flavors have more time to meld together. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
It's a brilliant make-ahead dish for Christmas dinner or any special occasion where you want to get ahead of the game, a real "chef's kiss" move!
What if I don't have all the ingredients? Can I substitute anything in this German Red Cabbage recipe?
No worries, you can definitely make some swaps! If you don't have apple cider vinegar, red wine vinegar will work. For the apples, pears are a good substitute. And if you're missing the dry red wine, just skip it, it adds depth but isn't crucial. Get creative in the kitchen, just like Bake Off's contestants!
My german red cabbage turned out too sour! How can I fix it?
If your Rotkohl is too tangy for your liking, don't fret! You can easily balance the flavors by adding a little more sugar or even a touch of apple sauce. Start with a teaspoon at a time, taste, and adjust until you reach your desired sweetness. Cooking is all about those adjustments, innit?
Is German Red Cabbage good for me? What's the nutritional lowdown?
Yes, german red cabbage can be a healthy side dish! It's packed with fiber and vitamins from the cabbage and apples. Just be mindful of the sugar content, which can vary depending on the recipe. Like with most things in life, moderation is key.
Plus, all that fibre is a winner for digestive health, just like your mum always told you!
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
You absolutely can! Simply omit the bacon if the recipe calls for it, and you're good to go for a vegetarian version. To make it vegan, ensure that the sugar you use is vegan friendly, as some refined sugars are processed using bone char.
Consider adding a drizzle of maple syrup for sweetness, if you are not using sugar.
Omas Sweet And Sour German Red Cabbage Rotkohl
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 120 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 5g |
| Fiber | 4g |
