German Red Cabbage (Rotkohl) Recipe

German Red Cabbage (Rotkohl) Recipe

6 servings
A traditional and flavorful German side dish, German Red Cabbage (Rotkohl) is a sweet and sour cabbage dish that pairs perfectly with hearty meats or as part of a vegetarian meal. The combination of red cabbage, apples, and warm spices creates a comforting and delicious side that is a staple in German cuisine.

Ingredients

  • unsalted butter
    2 tbsp
  • apples
    2 medium
  • onion

    finely diced

    1 medium
  • red cabbage
    2 lb
  • apple cider vinegar
    3 tbsp
  • apple cider
    1 c
  • lingonberry jam
    1 tbsp
  • 2 cloves
    2 clove
  • bay leaf
    1
  • juniper berries
    2
  • white sugar
    1 tbsp
  • salt
    ½ tsp
  • pepper
    ¼ tsp

Directions

  1. 1

    In a large Dutch Oven or heavy-bottomed pot, melt butter over medium-high heat. Saute diced apples and onions for 2-3 minutes.

  2. 2

    Add the red cabbage and vinegar, stir to combine. Then add apple cider, cloves, bay leaf, and juniper berries. Season with sugar, salt, and pepper.

  3. 3

    Reduce heat to medium, cover the pot, and simmer for 50-60 minutes until the cabbage is soft but not mushy. Stir occasionally and add more apple cider if needed.

  4. 4

    Adjust seasoning to taste and serve hot.

German Red Cabbage (Rotkohl) Recipe

German Red Cabbage (Rotkohl) Recipe

75 min6 servings180 cal

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About this Recipe

Discover the Delight of German Red Cabbage (Rotkohl)

Embark on a culinary journey to Germany with this authentic German Red Cabbage (Rotkohl) recipe. This beloved traditional German side dish is a vibrant and flavorful addition to any meal, renowned for its distinctive sweet and sour cabbage profile. Perfect for pairing with hearty roasts, sausages, or even as a standout vegetarian option, our Rotkohl recipe promises a comforting and utterly delicious experience.

What makes this Rotkohl truly special is the harmonious blend of ingredients. Slowly simmered red cabbage transforms into a tender, rich purple hue, beautifully complemented by the sweetness of diced apples and the aromatic warmth of spices like cloves, bay leaf, and the unique touch of juniper berries. The apple cider vinegar and apple cider infuse a delightful tanginess, balancing the sweetness from a touch of sugar and optional lingonberry jam, creating a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible.

Tips for Perfect Rotkohl

  • Slow Simmering is Key: Allow the cabbage to cook slowly for the full hour to achieve that perfectly tender texture and deep flavor. Don't rush it!
  • Balance the Flavors: Feel free to adjust the sugar or apple cider vinegar to your preference. If you like it sweeter, add a touch more sugar; for more tang, a splash more vinegar.
  • Ingredient Substitutions: If juniper berries are hard to find, you can omit them, though they do add a classic earthy note. For lingonberry jam, cranberry sauce or a mix of redcurrant jelly and a squeeze of lemon can be a good alternative.

This versatile side dish is a fantastic accompaniment to classic German fare like bratwurst, schnitzel, or roast pork. It also shines alongside roasted chicken or as a flavorful component of a festive holiday spread. Get ready to enjoy a taste of Germany right in your own kitchen!

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