Sweet-Sour Cabbage
Sweet-Sour Cabbage offers a delightful combination of tangy vinegar, sweet undertones, and tender cabbage, making it a comforting and flavorful side dish. Perfect for family dinners or gatherings, its balanced flavors appeal to those who enjoy savory vegetable dishes with a touch of zest.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Shred the cabbage and place it in a large pot with 3 tablespoons of water and the can of stewed tomatoes.
- Cook until the cabbage is almost tender.
- In a separate pan, melt the margarine.
- Mix the melted margarine with salt, white vinegar, and flour.
- Saute the diced onion in the mixture.
- Add this mixture to the cabbage when it is almost tender.
- Heat until the desired tenderness is reached.
- Add a teaspoon of sugar if needed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a dash of smoked paprika or a teaspoon of brown sugar to balance the acidity of the vinegar. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute margarine with olive oil or vegan butter. You can also swap out the stewed tomatoes for crushed tomatoes for a smoother texture. Make sure to finely chop the onion for better distribution in the dish.
Serving Suggestions
Sweet-sour cabbage pairs beautifully with roasted meats or as a hearty side dish for grilled chicken. It can also be served alongside crusty bread or rice to soak up the juices. Consider topping it with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for added color and flavor. For a complete meal, serve it with a side of Avocado Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the cabbage mixture in a saucepan over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it seems dry, and heat until warmed through. This dish can also be enjoyed cold as a salad.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet-Sour Cabbage contains roughly 99 calories, with 1g protein, 9g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1925mg per serving (84% 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 a different type of cabbage?
Yes, you can substitute green cabbage with red cabbage for a vibrant color and slightly different flavor. Napa cabbage is also a good option, but it will cook down more quickly, so adjust cooking times accordingly.
How do I make this dish spicier?
To add heat, consider incorporating crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when sautéing the onions. For a more complex flavor, try adding a splash of hot sauce to the mixture before serving.
Can this recipe be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. Prepare it a day in advance, let it cool, and store it in the fridge. Reheat gently before serving. It's perfect 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).