Our Favorite Red Cabbage
Our Favorite Red Cabbage offers a vibrant and tangy side dish with the sweetness of sugar balanced by tarragon vinegar and seasonings. The tender, flavorful cabbage pairs well with hearty meals, making it perfect for family dinners or festive gatherings that appreciate classic, comforting flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put the bacon drippings into a skillet.
- Melt the drippings over medium heat.
- Add the shredded red cabbage, sugar, water, salt, pepper, and tarragon vinegar to the skillet.
- Stir to blend all the ingredients well.
- Cover the pan and simmer for 30 minutes until the cabbage is tender.
- Serve hot as a flavorful side dish.
Tips & Substitutions
For even more flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a bit of grated apple to the cabbage mixture. If you want a vegetarian version, substitute the bacon drippings with olive oil or butter. Adjust the sugar based on the sweetness of the cabbage; some varieties may be sweeter than others. This dish can also be enhanced by adding spices like caraway seeds.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this red cabbage as a vibrant side dish alongside roasted meats like the Orange Glazed Pork Loin or grilled sausages. It pairs well with rich flavors, making it an excellent complement to hearty dishes. Consider adding a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs on top for added freshness before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm the cabbage in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking. You can also microwave it in short bursts until heated through, but be careful not to overcook.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Our Favorite Red Cabbage contains roughly 64 calories, with 3g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (34% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1866mg per serving (81% 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 recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the red cabbage in advance. Cook it as instructed, then store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat before serving to enjoy its flavors fresh. This dish often tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.
What can I use instead of tarragon vinegar?
If you don't have tarragon vinegar, you can substitute it with white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar. Each will impart a slightly different flavor but will still complement the cabbage well. Adjust the amount to taste, as some vinegars can be more potent than others.
Is it possible to add meat to this dish?
Absolutely! For a heartier version, you can add cooked bacon or diced ham during the cooking process. This addition will enhance the savory flavor and make it more filling. Just remember to adjust the seasoning accordingly, as the meat will add saltiness.
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).