Braised Red Cabbage Recipe Vegetarian and Delicious Ideas

There’s something truly comforting about a warm, tender side dish that also bursts with vibrant color and flavor. Braised red cabbage is one of those classic recipes that has been enjoyed across generations and cultures, known for its slightly sweet, tangy, and savory profile.

This vegetarian version is simple to prepare and offers a delicious way to add nutrients and eye-catching beauty to your meal. Whether you’re serving it alongside roasted vegetables, hearty grain bowls, or your favorite plant-based protein, braised red cabbage will quickly become a staple in your kitchen.

This recipe transforms humble red cabbage into a tender, flavorful dish by gently cooking it with apples, onions, and a splash of vinegar and spices. It’s perfect for cozy dinners and holiday feasts alike.

Plus, it’s naturally vegetarian and vegan, making it suitable for a wide range of diets. Ready to impress your family and friends with this delightful, colorful side?

Let’s dive in!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This braised red cabbage recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a vegetable that’s often overlooked. It’s:

• Easy to make: Just a few simple ingredients and one pan are all you need.
• Flavor-packed: The balance of sweet apples, tangy vinegar, and warming spices creates a complex taste.
• Versatile: Perfect as a side for comfort meals or a festive holiday table.
• Healthy and vegetarian: Loaded with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants, without any animal products.
• Make-ahead friendly: Flavors deepen if you prepare it in advance, making it great for meal prepping.

Ingredients

• 1 medium red cabbage (about 2 pounds), cored and thinly sliced
• 1 large apple (such as Granny Smith or Fuji), peeled, cored, and diced
• 1 medium yellow onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar or maple syrup
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• Optional: 1/4 cup dried cranberries or raisins for a fruity twist

Equipment

• Large deep skillet or Dutch oven
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Large bowl (for slicing cabbage)

Instructions

1. Prepare the cabbage and vegetables: Remove the outer leaves of the cabbage and cut it in half. Remove the core and slice the cabbage thinly. Peel and dice the apple, and thinly slice the onion.
2. Heat the oil: In a large skillet or Dutch oven, warm the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering.
3. Sauté onions and apples: Add the sliced onions and diced apples to the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become translucent and the apples start to soften.
4. Add the cabbage: Toss in the thinly sliced cabbage, stirring well to combine with the onions and apples.
5. Season and add liquids: Sprinkle the brown sugar, cinnamon, cloves, salt, and pepper over the cabbage mixture. Pour in the apple cider vinegar and vegetable broth. Stir everything together thoroughly.
6. Simmer gently: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the cabbage braise for 30-40 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. The cabbage should be tender but not mushy.
7. Add optional dried fruit: If desired, stir in dried cranberries or raisins about 10 minutes before the end of cooking for a lovely sweet contrast.
8. Adjust seasoning and serve: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or vinegar as needed. Remove from heat and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

“For an extra depth of flavor, try adding a tablespoon of balsamic vinegar along with the apple cider vinegar.”

• Make it vegan: Use maple syrup instead of brown sugar for strict vegan diets.
• Add texture: Toasted walnuts or pecans sprinkled on top add a lovely crunch.
• Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle heat if you like some spice.
• Use red wine vinegar: Swap the apple cider vinegar with red wine vinegar for a slightly different tang.
• Slow cooker option: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

Braised red cabbage makes a beautiful and delicious accompaniment to many dishes. Here are some ideas to serve it with:

• Alongside roasted root vegetables and mashed potatoes for a cozy vegetarian meal.
• Paired with hearty grain bowls featuring quinoa, farro, or barley mixed with roasted nuts and seeds.
• Served next to plant-based meat alternatives like lentil loaf or mushroom burgers.
• As a vibrant topping for sandwiches or wraps, adding both flavor and crunch.
• Try it with our Classico Sun Dried Tomato Alfredo Sauce Recipe and pasta for a colorful, comforting dinner.

Conclusion

Incorporating this braised red cabbage recipe into your weekly menu is a wonderful way to enjoy a nutritious, flavorful, and easy-to-make side dish. Its combination of sweet, tangy, and warm spices makes it incredibly satisfying, especially during the cooler months when comfort food cravings peak.

Plus, its vibrant colors brighten up any plate, making your meals look as good as they taste. Whether you’re cooking for family, entertaining friends, or simply treating yourself, this vegetarian recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Don’t forget to explore other delicious recipes on our site to complement your braised cabbage, such as the creamy and indulgent Cinnamon Pecan Ice Cream Recipe for dessert or the hearty and warming Chicken Shrimp And Broccoli Recipes for a wholesome main course.

Happy cooking!

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