Polish Sausage With Red Cabbage
A hearty Polish sausage with tangy red cabbage, simmered in wine and seasoned with lemon, sugar, and spices, perfect for comforting family meals or special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place cabbage in a colander.
- Pour boiling water over cabbage; drain well.
- Melt butter in a Dutch oven or large, heavy skillet.
- Add cabbage to the skillet.
- Stir in lemon juice.
- Cook and stir about 5 minutes or until cabbage is pink.
- Add wine or beef broth, salt, and pepper.
- Cover and simmer over medium-low heat for 45 minutes.
- Mix sugar and cornstarch together.
- Stir the sugar mixture into the simmering liquid.
- Bring to boiling, stirring constantly.
- Reduce heat and add diced Polish sausage.
- Cover and cook for an additional 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar along with the lemon juice. If you prefer a sweeter taste, substitute the brown sugar with maple syrup. You can also use kielbasa or turkey sausage as a lighter alternative to Polish sausage. Experiment with adding apples or raisins to the red cabbage for a touch of sweetness, which complements the acidity beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Polish Sausage with Red Cabbage alongside crusty bread or mashed potatoes for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with German Cheesecake for dessert, making for a comforting dinner experience. For a full meal, consider adding a simple green salad to the table, balancing the rich flavors with freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the dish in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Cover and heat until warmed through. This dish can also be reheated in the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Polish Sausage With Red Cabbage contains roughly 207 calories, with 5g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1684mg per serving (73% 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, this dish can be prepared a day in advance. Simply follow the recipe and allow it to cool before storing in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a little liquid if needed to maintain moisture.
What type of sausage works best for this dish?
Polish sausage is traditional, but you can use any smoked sausage you prefer, such as kielbasa or even chicken sausage for a lighter option. Ensure the sausage is fully cooked to enhance the overall flavor of the dish.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Absolutely! Consider adding shredded carrots or diced apples for additional texture and sweetness. These vegetables can complement the acidity of the cabbage and the richness of the sausage, making the dish even more colorful and nutritious.
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).