Red Cabbage with Apples

This red cabbage with apples dish is a delightful balance of sweet and tangy flavors that complement any main course beautifully. The recipe utilizes simple ingredients to create a side dish that boasts both vibrant color and rich taste. The key ingredients, red cabbage and apples, are paired with mild apple wine or juice, bringing out a unique depth of flavor. A hint of sugar and caraway seeds add to the complex palette, while a touch of vinegar provides the tanginess that elevates the dish. The gentle simmering of cabbage makes it tender and flavorful, allowing the infusion of spices and wine to permeate throughout. This dish is not only delicious but also healthy, with a low-calorie count yet rich in dietary fiber. Easy to make in under an hour, it is perfect for festive occasions or as part of a weekday meal. The beautiful ruby color of the cooked cabbage is sure to add an aesthetic touch to your dinner table.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 1 kg red cabbage
• 2 apples
• 1 large potato
• 1/4 liter mild apple wine (or apple juice)
• 1/8 liter fruit or white wine vinegar

Spices:

• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
• Salt
• Black pepper

Preparation Time

• Total time: 60 minutes
• Preparation: 15 minutes
• Cooking: 45 minutes

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Cabbage: Wash the head of red cabbage thoroughly. Cut it into four quarters and remove the core. Slice the cabbage into thin strips.

2. Prepare the Apples: Rinse the apples. Quarter them and remove the seeds. Grate the apple chunks using a coarse vegetable grater.

3. Prepare the Potato: Peel the potato and either slice it thinly or grate it using the coarse side of a grater.

4. Combine Ingredients: In a large pot, combine the sliced cabbage, grated apples, and prepared potato.

5. Add the Liquids: Pour in the apple wine (or juice) and vinegar.

6. Season the Mix: Sprinkle the sugar, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper into the pot with the other ingredients.

7. Heat it Up: Place the pot over medium-high heat. Stir the mixture gently and bring it to a boil.

8. Simmer the Dish: Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low. Allow it to simmer gently for about 45 minutes. Stir occasionally during this time to prevent sticking.

9. Check the Texture: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. The cabbage should be tender and well-cooked, and flavors fully melded.

10. Serve and Enjoy: Transfer the cooked cabbage to a serving bowl and serve warm alongside your chosen main dishes.

Tips

• Substitution: If you don't have apple wine, apple juice is a great alternative.
• Extra Flavors: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg for an additional layer of spice.
• Texture: If you prefer your cabbage with a bit more crunch, reduce the simmering time by 10 minutes.

Nutritions

• Calories: 150 kcal per serving
• Protein: 3g
• Fats: 1g
• Carbs: 28g

Variations

• Vegan-Friendly: Ensure all wines used are vegan-certified.
• Low-Sugar: Use stevia or another sugar substitute to reduce sugar content.

Serving Suggestions

• Pairings: This dish goes well with roasted meats such as pork or chicken.
• Garnish: A sprinkle of fresh parsley can add a fresh, bright finish.

Best Places

• Restaurant Marjellchen - Renowned for serving traditional German fare with hearty side dishes like this cabbage dish. Location: Mommsenstraße 9, Berlin, Germany.

• Café Hawelka - Offers a cozy spot to enjoy Austrian classics paired with flavorful sides. Location: Dorotheergasse 6, Vienna, Austria.

• Zum Schlüssel - Known for its classic regional specialties in North Rhine-Westphalia. Location: Bolkerstraße 41-47, Düsseldorf, Germany.

• Tradition - Known for its Polish and Eastern European dishes in a modern setting. Location: Al. Jerozolimskie 119, Warsaw, Poland.

• Bistro Bohem - Offers creative interpretations of European dishes in Washington's cozy neighborhood. Location: 600 Florida Ave NW, Washington, DC, United States.

• Le Bistrot du Sommelier - This Parisian spot beautifully combines wine with regional side specialties. Location: 97 Boulevard Haussmann, Paris, France.

• Gasthaus Zur Linde - Serves hearty southern German meals with traditional sides. Location: Kaplaneigasse 13, Stuttgart, Germany.

• Vindauga & Co - An Icelandic gem, pairing Nordic ingredients with sophisticated sides. Location: Laugarásvegur 1, Reykjavik, Iceland.

• Zur Letzten Instanz - Berlin's oldest restaurant, offers timeless German specialties. Location: Waisenstraße 14-16, Berlin, Germany.

• Znojmo Tavern - Located in the Czech Republic, it offers delectable Czech cuisine with amazing side dishes. Location: Pražská 1, Znojmo, Czech Republic.