The Sweet and Sour Red Cabbage Recipe is a colorful, tangy and comforting side dish. It’s soft, slightly crisp and full of flavor in every bite.
The mix of sweet sugar and tangy vinegar makes it special. It pairs perfectly with meats, sausages, or roasted dishes.
This classic recipe is simple to make and adds a pop of color to your table. If you love cozy homemade sides, this one is perfect for you.
When I First Tried It Sweet And Sour Red Cabbage Recipe
I first tried this dish at my grandmother’s Sunday dinner. The bright purple color caught my eye first, but the flavor truly won me over.
It was both sweet and tangy, soft yet a bit crunchy. Since then, I’ve made it for family dinners and it always reminds me of home and comfort.
Recipe Card Info
- Recipe Name: Sweet and Sour Red Cabbage Recipe
- Servings: 6
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 40 mins
- Total Time: 50 mins
- Course: Side Dish
- Cuisine: German, European
- Calories: 120 kcal per serving
Equipment List
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Ingredients You Need for Sweet And Sour Red Cabbage Recipe
- 1 medium head red cabbage, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon butter or oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 apple, peeled and grated (optional for sweetness)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Cabbage
Remove any tough outer leaves from the cabbage. Slice it thinly using a sharp knife or mandoline.
2. Sauté the Onion
In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and clear.
3. Add the Cabbage
Add the sliced cabbage to the pot and stir well. Cook for about 5 minutes until it starts to soften.
4. Mix in the Seasoning
Add sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the cabbage evenly.
5. Add Liquids and Simmer
Pour in apple cider vinegar and water. If using, add the grated apple for extra sweetness. Stir everything together.
6. Cook Until Tender
Cover the pot and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for 30–35 minutes until the cabbage is tender but not mushy. Stir occasionally.
7. Taste and Adjust
Taste before serving. Add more sugar or vinegar if you like it sweeter or tangier.
Recipe Tips
- Slice the cabbage thinly for the best texture.
- Don’t rush the cooking — slow simmering gives great flavor.
- Use apple cider vinegar for a fruity tang.
- Add a grated apple for natural sweetness.
- It tastes even better the next day after chilling overnight.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with roast pork, sausages, or grilled chicken.
- Pair with mashed potatoes or dumplings.
- Add it as a topping for sandwiches or burgers.
- Great for festive meals and cozy family dinners.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store the cabbage in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat until warm. You can also freeze it for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 120 kcal |
| Protein | 2 g |
| Fat | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 22 g |
| Fiber | 4 g |
| Sugar | 16 g |
| Sodium | 310 mg |
FAQs about Sweet And Sour Red Cabbage Recipe
Q1: Can I use green cabbage instead?
Yes, but red cabbage gives a better color and flavor.
Q2: Can I make it without sugar?
Yes, use honey or maple syrup instead.
Q3: How long can I store it?
It stays fresh for up to 4 days in the fridge.
Q4: Can I serve it cold?
Yes, it tastes great both warm and chilled.
Q5: What makes it “sweet and sour”?
The mix of sugar and vinegar creates the classic balance.
Conclusion
The Sweet and Sour Red Cabbage Recipe is simple, tasty, and full of comfort. Its perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors makes it stand out on any table.
Whether it’s for a cozy family meal or a festive dinner, this colorful side dish brings warmth and happiness with every bite. Try it once and it will surely become your new favorite..
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Sweet and Sour Red Cabbage Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 medium head red cabbage thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon butter or oil
- 1 medium onion finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- ½ cup apple cider vinegar
- ½ cup water
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 apple peeled and grated (optional for sweetness)
Instructions
Prepare the Cabbage
- Remove any tough outer leaves from the cabbage. Slice it thinly using a sharp knife or mandoline.
Sauté the Onion
- In a large pot, melt butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and clear.
Add the Cabbage
- Add the sliced cabbage to the pot and stir well. Cook for about 5 minutes until it starts to soften.
Mix in the Seasoning
- Add sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir to coat the cabbage evenly.
Add Liquids and Simmer
- Pour in apple cider vinegar and water. If using, add the grated apple for extra sweetness. Stir everything together.
Cook Until Tender
- Cover the pot and reduce heat to low. Let it simmer for 30–35 minutes until the cabbage is tender but not mushy. Stir occasionally.
Taste and Adjust
- Taste before serving. Add more sugar or vinegar if you like it sweeter or tangier.
Notes
- Slice the cabbage thinly for the best texture.
- Don’t rush the cooking — slow simmering gives great flavor.
- Use apple cider vinegar for a fruity tang.
- Add a grated apple for natural sweetness.
- It tastes even better the next day after chilling overnight.
Sara Collins is a food blogger at TastyDive. She shares simple and family-friendly recipes made with everyday ingredients. Her mission is to help home cooks enjoy tasty meals without stress.
