German Red Cabbage(Old Family Recipe)
German Red Cabbage features tender, tangy shredded cabbage flavored with vinegar, sugar, and bacon, offering a perfect balance of sweetness and acidity. Ideal as a hearty side dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Peel off dry pieces of cabbage.
- Cut the cabbage into quarters and remove thick veins.
- Soak the cabbage in cold water for 15 to 20 minutes to refresh.
- Sliver the cabbage on a cutting board before soaking.
- Cook the bacon strips until crispy and set aside.
- In a large pot, cook chopped onion until translucent.
- Add water, vinegar, sugar, and shredded cabbage to the pot.
- Simmer until the cabbage is tender and flavors meld, about 30-45 minutes.
- Crumble the cooked bacon and add to the cabbage mixture before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
When preparing the cabbage, you can use a mandoline for even slivers. If you prefer a sweeter taste, consider adding a bit more sugar or using apple juice instead of water. For a vegetarian version, you can omit the bacon and use olive oil for cooking the onions. Adding some spices like cloves or allspice can enhance the flavor profile, similar to what's found in sauerkraut and tomatoes casserole.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the German red cabbage alongside roasted meats, particularly pork recipes, for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with mashed potatoes or dumplings, making it a perfect side for your holiday gatherings. For a complete meal, consider serving it with a light salad dressed with dandelion dressing to balance the rich flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. When reheating, you can use a stovetop or microwave. If using the stovetop, add a splash of water to prevent drying out and heat over low until warmed through. This dish can also be enjoyed cold, making it a versatile addition to salads or sandwiches.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of German Red Cabbage(Old Family Recipe) contains roughly 159 calories, with 6g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (13% of the Daily Value) and protein (12% of the Daily Value).
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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, German red cabbage tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat it gently before serving to enjoy its full flavor.
What can I use instead of bacon?
If you're looking for a vegetarian option, you can replace the bacon with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a similar flavor. Additionally, using olive oil to sauté the onions will keep the dish light while still maintaining depth.
How long can I store the leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing the cabbage in portions, which can last for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing.
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).