Grandma Jeanette’s Amazing German Red Cabbage Recipe
Grandma Jeanette’s Amazing German Red Cabbage is a classic, comforting side dish featuring tender shredded red cabbage simmered with sweet green apples, tangy apple cider vinegar, and warm spices. This traditional recipe balances sweet, sour, and savory flavors perfectly and is an excellent accompaniment to hearty meals.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 1 hr 5 mins
- Total Time: 1 hr 15 mins
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: German
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Vegetables & Fruits
- 5 cups shredded red cabbage
- 1 cup sliced green apples
Sweeteners & Fats
- 1/4 cup white sugar
- 2 tablespoons butter
Liquids & Seasonings
- 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
- 3 tablespoons water
- 2 1/4 teaspoons salt, or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Gather all ingredients including shredded red cabbage, sliced green apples, white sugar, butter, apple cider vinegar, water, salt, black pepper, and ground cloves to ensure a smooth cooking process.
- Combine Ingredients in Pot: Place the shredded cabbage, sliced apples, sugar, and butter into a large pot. Add the apple cider vinegar and water, then season with salt, black pepper, and ground cloves.
- Bring to a Boil: Set the pot over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a rolling boil, ensuring that all ingredients are well combined and beginning to soften.
- Simmer Until Tender: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the cabbage simmer gently for 1½ to 2 hours. This slow cooking softens the cabbage and melds the flavors beautifully.
- Serve: Once the cabbage is tender and flavorful, remove from heat and serve warm as a delicious side dish to your favorite main courses.
Notes
- Adjust salt to taste during cooking if desired.
- Simmering time can be adjusted slightly; longer cooking will yield softer cabbage.
- Adding a pinch of sugar balances the vinegar’s acidity, but you can reduce sugar for a less sweet version.
- This dish pairs wonderfully with roasted meats or sausages.
