German Red Cabbage (Rotkohl): A Tangy and Sweet Side Dish

EPCOT – World Showcase – Germany

Biergarten

Enhance your meal with the delightful taste of traditional German Red Cabbage, also known as Rotkohl. This tangy and sweet side dish is a staple in German cuisine, offering a perfect balance of flavors that complement a variety of main courses.

Key Ingredients:

  • Red Cabbage: Freshly shredded red cabbage forms the base of this dish, providing vibrant color and crisp texture.
  • Apples: Sliced apples add a touch of natural sweetness and a hint of tartness.
  • Onions: Sautéed onions lend a savory depth to the dish.
  • Vinegar: A splash of vinegar gives the cabbage its signature tangy flavor.
  • Sugar: A bit of sugar balances the acidity and enhances the overall taste.
  • Spices: Traditional spices like cloves, bay leaves, and juniper berries infuse the cabbage with warm, aromatic notes.

Cooking Process:

  1. Sauté the Onions: Begin by sautéing the onions until they are soft and golden.
  2. Add the Cabbage and Apples: Stir in the shredded red cabbage and sliced apples, allowing them to meld with the onions.
  3. Season and Simmer: Add the vinegar, sugar, and spices, then cover and simmer the mixture until the cabbage is tender and the flavors have fully developed.

Serving Suggestions: German Red Cabbage pairs wonderfully with hearty dishes like roast pork, sausages, beef rouladen, and schnitzel. It’s a versatile side that adds a burst of color and a unique flavor profile to any meal.

Savor the traditional taste of Germany with this delicious and easy-to-make side dish. German Red Cabbage is a perfect addition to your culinary repertoire, bringing a touch of tangy sweetness to your dining table.

Ingredients

  • 5 cups shredded red cabbage
  • 1 cup sliced green apples
  • 1/2 cup white onion
  • ¼ cup white sugar
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • ⅓ cup apple cider vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons water
  • 2 ¼ teaspoons salt, or to taste
  • 2 Bay Leaves
  • ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
  • 1/2 Cup Red Wine – Optional (Merlot)

Directions

  1. Gather all ingredients. Sautee Onion in a small amount of oil.

  2. Place cabbage, onion, apples, sugar, and butter into a large pot. Pour in vinegar and water, then add salt, bay leaves, pepper, and cloves. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.  Add red wine (optional).

  3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until the cabbage is tender, 1 ½ to 2 hours.