Sweet Tangy Braised Cabbage
Sweet & Sour Cabbage: A Culinary Hug in a Bowl
Ever get a craving for something that just feels like home? Well, my friends, let me introduce you to sweet and sour cabbage .
It's like a warm hug in a bowl. Think cabbage comfort food at its absolute finest! This recipe is gonna knock your socks off.
Grandma's Secret: Sweet and Tangy Cabbage
This braised cabbage recipe is inspired by the cooking of my Grandma. Her's was an Eastern European cabbage recipe , and I’ve tweaked it to my liking.
The vinegar and sugar create an awesome balance. It's comforting and surprisingly addictive.
This recipe is pretty easy. Total time, about an hour and 15 minutes. Don’t be scared! This recipe is going to give you about 6 servings.
Health Benefits of Cabbage
Cabbage is amazing for you! It's packed with fiber and vitamins. Plus, this vegetarian cabbage dish is surprisingly light. It's the perfect cabbage side dish for any occasion.
I like it especially alongside sausages or pork.
Honestly, what makes this sweet and tangy cabbage so special? It’s the simplicity. You take humble ingredients and create something truly amazing.
This recipe shows how to make red cabbage sweet and sour and the same principles can be applied to green cabbage! No need to buy sauerkraut recipe !
Ready to make some magic? Let's dive into the ingredients.
Getting Down to Brass Tacks: Ingredients & Equipment for Sweet and Sour Cabbage
So, you're keen on making some proper sweet and sour cabbage ? Good on ya! It’s easier than you think.
A braised cabbage recipe like this is proper comfort food. Let's get our bits and bobs sorted, shall we? Think of this as the ultimate guide to nailing this vegetarian cabbage dish .
Main Ingredients: Let's Get Specific, Shall We?
Right, here's what you'll need, down to the nitty gritty. Honestly, don't stress too much. It's more about the vibe than being a stickler for the rules.
- Green cabbage: 1 medium head (around 2 lbs or 900g ). Get one that feels heavy for its size. That's a good indicator of freshness.
- Yellow onion: 1 large (about 8 oz or 225g ), thinly sliced. Onions make everything better, right?
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons ( 30 ml ). Go for a decent quality one. You'll taste the difference.
- Caraway seeds: 1 teaspoon ( 5 ml ). These are key for that classic flavour.
- Salt: 1/2 teaspoon ( 2.5 ml ). To taste, of course.
- Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon ( 1.25 ml ). Freshly ground is always best.
- Apple cider vinegar: 1/2 cup ( 120 ml ). This is where the magic happens.
- Granulated sugar: 1/4 cup ( 50g ). Or honey or maple syrup, if you fancy.
- Vegetable broth: 1/2 cup ( 120 ml ). Low sodium is a good shout.
Seasoning Notes: A Bit of This, A Bit of That
Here's the secret: Don't be shy with the seasoning! Caraway is crucial. A dash of smoked paprika can give it a lovely depth, turning it into something akin to a German cabbage recipe .
You know? A pinch of red pepper flakes can also transform your cabbage side dish .
Equipment Needed: Keeping it Simple
Honestly, you don't need much for this sweet and tangy cabbage .
- A big pot with a lid. A Dutch oven is ideal.
- A chopping board. Essential, unless you're a ninja with a knife.
- A good chef's knife. Sharp is safe, remember.
- Measuring cups and spoons. For the more precise among us.
If you don't have a fancy Dutch oven, a big saucepan with a lid will do the trick. Honestly, don't sweat it. We're aiming for tasty, not perfect.
This recipe is really one of my faves. It’s like a warm hug on a cold day proper cabbage comfort food .
My Nan used to make a similar version, which would easily qualify as a proper Eastern European cabbage recipe , with a little tweak or two it would turn into a sauerkraut recipe .
I hope this gets your tastebuds tingling and have you in the kitchen right away!
Sweet & Sour Cabbage: A Culinary Hug in a Bowl
Honestly, folks, let's talk about sweet and sour cabbage . It's not just a dish; it's a warm, comforting hug. Like a cozy night in with your favourite show! My Grandma used to make this, and the smell alone takes me right back.
It's a surprisingly versatile veggie dish that is a family favourite.
Prep Like a Pro: Your Essential Mise en Place
First things first: get organised! Chop one large yellow onion. Thinly slice a medium head of green cabbage think coleslaw, not chunky.
Grab your olive oil, caraway seeds, apple cider vinegar, and sugar. All laid out? Ace! This essential mise en place makes life SO much easier.
Honestly, you don't want to be scrambling for ingredients mid-cook. If you are going to use bacon, get it ready, too.
The Sweet and Tangy Dance: step-by-step Goodness
Right, let's get cooking.
- Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Sauté the onion until it is nice and softened.
- Add your cabbage, 1 teaspoon of caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Give it a good stir.
- Pour in ½ cup of apple cider vinegar, ¼ cup of sugar, and ½ cup of vegetable broth. Stir it all up.
- Bring it to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low.
- Cover and simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour , stirring occasionally. You want the cabbage tender but still with a bit of bite.
- Taste and adjust! More vinegar for tang, more sugar for sweet you do you.
Pro Tips for Seriously Good Cabbage
Want to elevate your braised cabbage recipe ? Try this: add a diced apple (Granny Smith is fab!) halfway through cooking.
It adds a lovely fruity sweetness that complements the sweet and sour perfectly.
Oh, and a classic mistake? Overcooking! Keep an eye on it. Nobody likes mushy cabbage. For a German Cabbage Recipe Style you can add juniper berries.
You can make this dish a day ahead! The flavours actually meld even better overnight. Reheat gently before serving, and voila! Dinner sorted.
Perfect as a cabbage side dish, or as a vegetarian cabbage dish served alongside some potatoes.
Recipe Notes for the Perfect Sweet and Sour Cabbage
Let's chat about how to nail this sweet and sour cabbage recipe, yeah? It's not just about following steps; it's about making it your sweet and tangy cabbage masterpiece.
Serving Suggestions: Let's Get Fancy (or Not!)
Presentation is key! Think of it as dressing up your cabbage side dish . A simple swirl on the plate works.
Or, pile it high next to some bangin' roast chicken. For drinks? A crisp apple cider is a total winner.
If you fancy something a bit special, some proper braised cabbage recipe with a glass of chilled Riesling, like they do in Germany.
Storage Tips: Making it Last
Honestly, this sweet and sour cabbage tastes even better the next day. Just shove it in the fridge in an airtight container.
It will last about 3-4 days . Wanna freeze it? Go for it. Just let it cool completely first. Reheating? A quick zap in the microwave or a gentle simmer on the hob will do the trick.
Just like mama used to make, a proper cabbage comfort food .
Variations: Make it Your Own!
Okay, so you're veggie? Ditch the bacon, obviously. And use maple syrup instead of sugar. Boom, done! You can also swap ingredients based on the season.
In autumn, add some chunks of butternut squash. It adds a nutty sweetness. This recipe transforms itself into a great vegetarian cabbage dish .
So adaptable, this red cabbage sweet and sour .
Nutrition Basics: Goodness in Every Bite
This isn't just tasty; it's good for you too! Cabbage is packed with Vitamin C. And fibre. It's brilliant for your gut.
Plus, the vinegar might help with digestion. I’m not a scientist, mind you, but it feels healthy. Think about it a serving is only around 120-150 calories.
Proper light for something so comforting. It's a great German cabbage recipe , though grandma never told me it was this healthy!
Honestly, don't be scared to experiment with this sauerkraut recipe . Just jump in, have fun, and enjoy the process. Soon you'll have your own version of cabbage with vinegar and sugar .
You got this!
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is sweet and sour cabbage, and why should I bother making it?
Sweet and sour cabbage is a dish where cabbage is braised in a tangy sauce, balancing sweetness (usually from sugar) with acidity (typically vinegar). Think of it as a culinary hug! It's a super versatile side dish, and incredibly comforting a bit like bubble and squeak, but with a bit more zing.
Can I make sweet and sour cabbage ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, sweet and sour cabbage often tastes even better the next day. The flavors have more time to meld together, resulting in a richer, more complex dish. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Think of it like a good chili - it only gets better with time!
I'm watching my sugar intake can I still enjoy sweet and sour cabbage?
Definitely! You can easily adjust the sweetness to your liking. Instead of granulated sugar, try using honey, maple syrup, or a sugar substitute like stevia. You can also balance the sweetness by adding a splash more vinegar for extra tang.
Nobody wants a right rum tum, so you can keep it healthy without sacrificing flavour.
What are some good variations on this sweet and sour cabbage recipe?
There are plenty of ways to jazz up your sweet and sour cabbage! For a heartier version, add diced bacon or sausage during the initial sautéing step. For a touch of sweetness and texture, try adding diced apples or raisins.
Some people like to stir in caraway seeds for a traditional flavour, others like a touch of tomato paste for a richer flavour. Think about adding some spice, too! A little chilli or paprika really puts a swing in your step!
My sweet and sour cabbage turned out too watery. How can I fix it?
No worries, this is a common issue! Remove the lid from the pot and simmer the cabbage over medium heat for a few minutes, allowing some of the excess liquid to evaporate. You can also thicken the sauce by stirring in a small amount of cornstarch slurry (cornstarch mixed with cold water).
Remember, a good sweet and sour cabbage should be saucy, but not swimming!
Can I freeze sweet and sour cabbage for later?
Yes, you can freeze sweet and sour cabbage, though the texture might change slightly. Store it in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to 2-3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat gently on the stovetop.
Be aware that the cabbage might be a little softer after freezing, but it will still be delicious. It's a great way to have a taste of home waiting for you on a cold day!
Sweet Tangy Braised Cabbage
Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts:
| Calories | 135 |
|---|---|
| Fat | 6g |
| Fiber | 4g |
