Step into the rich culinary traditions of the Netherlands with this delightful recipe for Braised Red Cabbage with Apples and Balsamic. This isn’t just any side dish; it’s a harmonious blend of sweet and sour flavors, deeply comforting, and surprisingly quick to prepare. Perfect for a weeknight meal or a festive gathering, this vibrant red cabbage dish promises a taste experience that will enchant your palate and leave a lasting impression.

Are you searching for a truly outstanding side dish that offers both rich flavor and ease of preparation? Look no further than this exquisite red cabbage with apples and a hint of balsamic vinegar. The magic lies in the perfect balance between the crisp sweetness of apples and the tangy depth of red cabbage, all elevated by the unexpected, sophisticated twist of balsamic. Not only is this vegetable dish incredibly delicious, but it’s also remarkably simple to make, coming together in under half an hour. Get ready to impress your family and guests with this flavorful and colorful addition to your dinner table.

Red Cabbage with Apples and Balsamic: A Surprising and Deep Flavor Combination

When I reflect on my cherished childhood vegetable dishes, braised red cabbage with apples invariably comes to mind. I can still vividly recall the comforting aroma that would fill our home as the red cabbage slowly simmered on the stove, a true labor of love that yielded incredibly tender results. This traditional Dutch method of gently cooking the red cabbage has always held a special place in my heart, evoking warm memories of family meals.

The addition of sweet apples to this classic red cabbage recipe was always the highlight for me, transforming it into a wonderfully fresh, inviting, and naturally sweet side dish. It was, and still is, a fantastic recipe on its own. However, my culinary journey took an exciting turn when I decided to introduce balsamic vinegar to the mix. The results were nothing short of spectacular. The balsamic didn’t just add an extra layer of flavor; it deepened the red cabbage’s natural taste, imparting a richer, more robust, and heartier dimension that was simply unforgettable. This surprising twist elevates the dish, making it truly exceptional. I wholeheartedly recommend experiencing this delicious flavor enhancement for yourself.

This braised red cabbage with apples and balsamic is more than just a side; it’s a testament to how simple ingredients can create profound flavors. The acidity of the balsamic perfectly cuts through the richness, while the glaze adds a subtle sweetness and beautiful sheen. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting, this recipe is a must-try for its ease, speed, and unforgettable taste. Try it yourself soon – you won’t be disappointed!

(Pro Tip: Do you love a slow-cooked, deeper flavor? Explore my red cabbage prepared in the Slow Cooker recipe. The extended stewing time truly brings out an intensified, delicious taste.)

What You’ll Need for Easy Braised Red Cabbage with Balsamic and Apples

Preparing this incredibly flavorful Braised Red Cabbage with Apples and Balsamic requires a handful of fresh and simple ingredients that come together to create a truly memorable dish. You can find the precise quantities and detailed instructions in the recipe card conveniently located at the bottom of this blog post. But first, let’s explore the key components that make this recipe shine:

• Red Cabbage: The star of our dish, red cabbage is known for its beautiful color and firm texture. While cleaning and finely shredding a whole cabbage can be a bit of work, especially if done by hand, a food processor with a slicing blade can speed things up considerably. For ultimate convenience, you can often find high-quality pre-cut red cabbage in most supermarkets, which is a fantastic time-saver without compromising on flavor. Red cabbage is also packed with nutrients like Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and powerful antioxidants, making this dish not just delicious but also incredibly healthy.
• Butter: Used for sautéing the aromatics, butter provides a rich, creamy base that melts beautifully into the cabbage, contributing to its luscious texture and depth of flavor. Unsalted butter is preferred to control the overall saltiness of the dish.
• Apples: Essential for that perfect sweet-tart balance. Varieties like Honeycrisp, Jonagold, Pink Lady, or Braeburn are ideal for braising. They hold their shape well during cooking and offer a lovely sweetness that complements the robust flavor of the red cabbage. Peeling and coring them ensures a smooth texture in the final dish.
• Balsamic Glaze: This is where the magic happens! Balsamic glaze is essentially balsamic vinegar that has been reduced to a thick, syrupy consistency. This reduction process concentrates its flavors, making it wonderfully velvety soft and intensely rich in taste. Unlike regular balsamic vinegar, the glaze adds a profound depth and a beautiful gloss to the dish without making it overly acidic. It’s truly a game-changer for this recipe.
• Sugar: A touch of granulated sugar enhances the natural sweetness of the apples and helps to balance the inherent tartness of the red cabbage and balsamic, creating a well-rounded and irresistible flavor profile.
• Cinnamon and Nutmeg: These warm, earthy spices are classic companions to red cabbage, especially in traditional Dutch cooking. They infuse the dish with a comforting aroma and a subtle, inviting warmth, harmonizing beautifully with the other ingredients.
• Shallot: A culinary gem, a finely chopped shallot adds an extra layer of delicate, aromatic flavor to the red cabbage with apples. Shallots are milder and sweeter than regular onions, offering a more nuanced and sophisticated taste that perfectly rounds out this dish.

Gathering these simple ingredients is the first step towards creating a truly memorable side dish that will become a staple in your recipe collection. Each component plays a crucial role in developing the complex yet balanced flavors of this Dutch braised red cabbage.

How to Prepare Easy Braised Red Cabbage with Apples and Balsamic

Creating this flavorful and vibrant side dish is incredibly straightforward, proving that delicious meals don’t always require hours in the kitchen. Below, you’ll find the step-by-step process for preparing your Easy Braised Red Cabbage with Apples. For a printable version with detailed ingredient measurements and notes, be sure to check the comprehensive recipe card at the very end of this blog.

1. Sauté Aromatics: Begin by melting the butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the finely chopped shallot and the diced apple pieces. Sauté these gently for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the shallot becomes translucent and fragrant. This step builds the foundational flavors of your dish.
2. Toast Spices: Next, stir in the ground cinnamon and nutmeg. Continue to cook for another minute, allowing the spices to become wonderfully aromatic. Toasting spices briefly in butter helps to release their full flavor potential, infusing the dish with a warm, inviting essence.
3. Combine and Simmer: Now, add the shredded red cabbage to the pot. Pour in the water and balsamic glaze, and sprinkle in the sugar. Stir all the ingredients thoroughly until the cabbage is well coated. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 20 minutes. This simmering process allows the cabbage to tenderize, absorb the delicious flavors, and for the sweet-sour balance to meld beautifully.
4. Season and Serve: Finally, remove the pot from the heat and season the red cabbage with salt and pepper to taste. Give it one last good stir. Before serving, you can optionally sprinkle with a touch more cinnamon for an extra aromatic flourish. The braised red cabbage with apples and balsamic is now ready to be enjoyed!

This dish is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with a variety of main courses. Traditionally, Dutch red cabbage is delicious with hearty meat dishes such as Grandmother’s Hachee (a classic Dutch beef and onion stew), a comforting Dutch Jachtschotel (hunter’s pot), or the tender Dutch Draadjesvlees (prepared in the slow cooker). It also makes a fantastic accompaniment to roast chicken, pork loin, or even a robust vegetarian main like lentil loaf or mushroom Wellington.

Tips, Substitutions, and Variations for Your Braised Red Cabbage

This braised red cabbage with apples and balsamic recipe is already a stand-out, but there are many ways to customize it to your taste or what you have on hand. Here are some creative tips, substitutions, and variations to inspire you:

• Add Savory Bacon: For a delightful smoky and savory element, fry some bacon pieces until they are golden brown and crispy. Drain excess fat, then crumble the bacon and stir it into the red cabbage towards the end of the cooking process, or use the bacon fat to sauté the shallots and apples for an extra layer of flavor.
• Pear Power: If you’re looking for a slightly different sweet profile, replace the apples with firm pears, such as Bosc or Anjou. Pears offer a unique sweetness and a slightly softer texture when braised, making for a wonderfully distinct and tasty variation.
• Sweet Burst of Raisins: A classic addition to red cabbage in many cuisines, a handful of plump raisins or dried cranberries can be added during the simmering stage. They will soften and release bursts of concentrated sweetness, complementing the other flavors beautifully.
• Comforting Oven Bake (Casserole Style): Transform this side dish into a more substantial casserole. After the red cabbage has finished simmering, transfer it to the bottom of an oven-safe dish. Top it generously with a layer of creamy mashed potatoes. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20-25 minutes, or until the mashed potatoes are golden brown and bubbling. This makes for an excellent hearty main course or a comforting side.
• Citrus Zest: For a brighter, more aromatic finish, grate in the zest of half an orange or a lemon along with the spices. The citrus notes will lift the dish and add a lovely freshness.
• Nutty Crunch: Introduce a delightful textural contrast by stirring in a handful of toasted walnuts or pecans during the last few minutes of cooking, or sprinkle them on top just before serving.
• Herbaceous Twist: A sprig of fresh thyme or a bay leaf added during the simmering phase can impart an earthy, aromatic depth to the cabbage. Remember to remove bay leaves before serving.
• Vinegar Alternatives: While balsamic glaze offers a unique profile, you can experiment with other vinegars. A good quality apple cider vinegar will enhance the apple flavor, or a red wine vinegar can add a sharper, more robust tang.

These suggestions offer endless possibilities to adapt this versatile Dutch red cabbage recipe to suit your preferences and occasion. Don’t be afraid to get creative in the kitchen!

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

One of the many great things about this braised red cabbage with apples and balsamic is how well it stores and can be made ahead. This makes it a perfect dish for meal prepping or for entertaining, as you can prepare it in advance and simply reheat it when needed.

Cooling: Always ensure the red cabbage is cooled down quickly and completely before storing to maintain freshness and safety.

• Fridge: Once cooled, transfer the braised red cabbage into a sealed, airtight container. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days. The flavors often deepen and meld even more after a day, making it taste even better!
• Freezer: For longer storage, this dish freezes exceptionally well. Place the cooled red cabbage into a freezer-safe bag or an airtight container, ensuring there’s minimal air to prevent freezer burn. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating: To reheat, simply transfer the desired portion to a saucepan over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or apple juice if it seems a little dry. Stir occasionally until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

• Can I use regular balsamic vinegar instead of balsamic glaze? Yes, you can. However, balsamic glaze is thicker and sweeter, providing a richer, more concentrated flavor and a beautiful sheen. If using regular balsamic vinegar, you might want to increase the amount of sugar slightly to balance the tartness, and the final texture might be a little thinner. Alternatively, you can easily make your own balsamic glaze by simmering balsamic vinegar until it reduces and thickens.
• What are the best apples to use for braised red cabbage? For this recipe, firm, slightly sweet-tart apples work best as they hold their shape and contribute to the overall balance of flavors. Excellent choices include Honeycrisp, Jonagold, Pink Lady, or Braeburn. Avoid overly soft apples that might turn mushy during braising.
• Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free? Absolutely! Simply substitute the butter with a plant-based butter alternative or your preferred cooking oil, such as olive oil or avocado oil. The rest of the ingredients are naturally vegan.
• How can I ensure the red cabbage is tender but not mushy? The key is simmering on gentle heat for the recommended 20 minutes. Keep an eye on it and stir occasionally. Different types of cabbage and shredding thickness can affect cooking time, so you can gently test a piece of cabbage for tenderness towards the end of the cooking time.

Did you make this delicious recipe? Tag #byandreajanssen via Instagram! I love to see what your creation looks like and regularly share the most beautiful photos of you! Did you like this recipe? Then leave a rating on the recipe card! Your feedback helps other home cooks and me enormously.

Need more inspiration?

• You can find video recipes on my YouTube channel.
• And don’t forget to save the recipes on Pinterest, so you can easily find them again next time!

Braised Red Cabbage with Apples and Balsamic

Andréa

More Delicious Side Dishes to Explore

If you loved this braised red cabbage with apples and balsamic, you’re in for a treat! Discover more fantastic side dishes that are perfect for complementing any meal. From vibrant salads to hearty vegetable preparations, these recipes are designed to add flavor and excitement to your table.