Fresh Cabbage Relish

Prep: 15 min Cook: 10 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

Fresh Cabbage Relish offers a crisp, tangy flavor profile with hints of mustard and celery seeds, perfect as a side dish or topping. Its vibrant texture and zesty taste make it a versatile addition to sandwiches, barbecues, or salads, delighting those who enjoy homemade, flavorful condiments.

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Ingredients

  • 1 small head cabbage
  • 1 big carrot
  • 1 onion
  • 1/8 to 1/4 tsp. celery seed
  • 1/8 to 1/4 tsp. mustard seed
  • 1/2 cup vinegar
  • 1/2 cup water

Instructions

  1. Shred the small head of cabbage and sprinkle with 2 teaspoons salt in a glass bowl. Let it sit for several hours or overnight.
  2. Drain the cabbage well and coarsely grate the carrot.
  3. Cut the onion into thin slices and add to the drained cabbage.
  4. Add celery seed and mustard seed to the cabbage mixture.
  5. Bring the vinegar, water, and sugar to a boil; boil for 1 minute.
  6. Cool the vinegar mixture and pour it over the vegetables and spices.
  7. Cover and chill the relish for 24 hours before serving.

Tips & Substitutions

For a crunchier texture, consider adding diced bell peppers or cucumbers to the cabbage relish. You can adjust the salt and sugar levels to fit your taste, or substitute apple cider vinegar for a sweeter flavor. If you're short on time, using pre-shredded cabbage can speed up the preparation process while still delivering delicious results.

Serving Suggestions

This fresh cabbage relish pairs beautifully with grilled meats, sandwiches, or as a topping for tacos. It can also brighten up salads or be served alongside dishes like Tired Mama Cake for a delightful contrast. Consider serving it at summer barbecues or picnics for a refreshing side.

Storage & Reheating

Store the cabbage relish in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to one week. The flavors will deepen over time, making it even more delicious. To serve, simply scoop out what you need; there's no need to reheat this dish as it is best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Fresh Cabbage Relish contains roughly 279 calories, with 9g protein, 49g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (120% of the Daily Value), iron (85% of the Daily Value), and calcium (49% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. It also contributes 12g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

279 kcal 14% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 9.1g 18% DV
Total Fat 8.6g 11% DV
Carbs 48.5g 18% DV
Fiber 12.2g 43% DV
Sugar 16g 32% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 217.9mg 9% DV
Potassium 1374.5mg 29% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 1080.8mcg 100% DV
Vitamin C 26mg 29% DV
Calcium 631.6mg 49% DV
Iron 15.3mg 85% DV
Diet fit High-fiber Under 400 cal Low-fat

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of cabbage for this relish?

Yes, you can use green, red, or even Napa cabbage to create different flavors and colors in your relish. Each type will bring its unique texture and taste, so feel free to experiment based on what you have available.

How long does this relish last in the refrigerator?

The cabbage relish can last in the refrigerator for about a week. As it sits, the flavors will meld together, making it even tastier over time. Just ensure it's stored in an airtight container to maintain freshness.

Can I make this relish spicy?

Absolutely! To add some heat to your cabbage relish, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes. Adjust the spice level to your preference for a delightful kick that enhances the overall flavor.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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