Red Cabbage Casserole
A vibrant red cabbage casserole with tart apples and a touch of sweetness, perfect for family dinners or holiday meals with bold, tangy flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a heavy saucepan, melt the shortening.
- Add shredded red cabbage, chopped onion, lemon juice, vinegar, sugar, and salt.
- Stir well to combine.
- Cover and cook over medium heat for 10 to 15 minutes until the cabbage is crisp-tender.
- Add chopped apples and cook for an additional 10 to 15 minutes until the cabbage and apples are tender.
- Stir in red currant jelly until melted and well incorporated.
- Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with lemon slices.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a combination of apples, such as tart Granny Smith and sweet Fuji. You can substitute the red currant jelly with grape or raspberry jelly if needed. If you prefer a vegetarian version, ensure the shortening is plant-based. Additionally, adding a pinch of nutmeg can enhance the dish's warmth, making it a comforting side for cold evenings.
Serving Suggestions
This Red Cabbage Casserole makes a vibrant side dish for roasted meats or a hearty vegetarian main when paired with grains. It pairs beautifully with Cherry Chocolate Pie for dessert, creating a delightful meal experience. Consider serving it alongside mashed potatoes or a fresh salad to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place the casserole in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave it in 30-second intervals, covered, to retain moisture. Avoid freezing, as the texture may change.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Red Cabbage Casserole contains roughly 651 calories, with 11g protein, 125g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (208% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (79% of the Daily Value), and potassium (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1910mg per serving (83% 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, you can prepare the casserole a day in advance. Simply cook it as directed, then let it cool before transferring it to the refrigerator. Reheat before serving. This allows the flavors to meld, making it even more delicious.
What type of apples work best in this recipe?
Tart apples like Granny Smith balance the sweetness from the jelly and sugar, while sweeter varieties like Fuji or Honeycrisp add a nice contrast. Mixing different types can create a more complex flavor profile.
Is it possible to make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! Replace the shortening with a plant-based alternative like coconut oil or vegan butter. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan, making it a great choice for those following vegan recipes.
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).