Red Cabbage (Sweet Sour)
A vibrant sweet and sour red cabbage dish with apples and vinegar, perfect as a flavorful side for hearty meals or festive gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the red cabbage into quarters, discard the core, and shred finely until you have about three pints.
- Peel, core, and slice the green apples.
- Melt the fat (sausage fat) in a skillet over medium heat.
- Add the shredded cabbage and sliced apples to the skillet.
- Cover with boiling water and cook until the vegetables are tender.
- Add salt and pepper, then sprinkle brown sugar and flour over the mixture.
- Pour in the vinegar and cook for an additional 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using bacon fat instead of sausage fat. If you prefer a healthier option, olive oil can also work well. If red cabbage is unavailable, green cabbage can be substituted, though the taste will differ slightly. You can adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of brown sugar based on your preference.
Serving Suggestions
This sweet and sour red cabbage pairs beautifully with roasted meats or sausages, making it a perfect side for dishes like Sausage En Croute. It also complements hearty grain dishes and can be served warm or at room temperature. For a lighter meal, serve it alongside a fresh salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the cabbage in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to prevent sticking, and cover until heated through. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Red Cabbage (Sweet Sour) contains roughly 114 calories, with 4g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (46% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1842mg per serving (80% 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 use other types of apples for this recipe?
Yes, you can use other apple varieties like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp. Each type will impart a different level of sweetness and tartness, so feel free to experiment based on your taste preference.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, simply replace sausage fat with olive oil or vegetable oil. You can also enhance the flavor by adding a bit of smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic the savory taste of sausage.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish a day ahead, allowing the flavors to meld. Just reheat it gently before serving. This sweet and sour cabbage can also be enjoyed cold, making it a great option for meal prep.
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).