
Red Cabbage with Apples Recipe
The essential German side dish
By Sarah Mitchell • June 14, 2026
Sweet-tangy braised red cabbage with apples, red wine, and warm spices. The classic side for every German roast dinner.
About This Recipe
"Red Cabbage with Apples" is a Dinner recipe that brings red cabbage, shredded, tart apples, sliced, red wine, red wine vinegar and sugar together into a flavorful, well-balanced dish. Rated Easy and ready in about 75 minutes, this recipe fits easily into a busy schedule. It serves 8 and works equally well for a weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal. The German inspiration behind this dish balances classic techniques with clean, vibrant flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 head red cabbage, shredded
- 2 tart apples, sliced
- 1/2 cup red wine
- 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 2 tbsp sugar
Instructions
- 1
Sauté onion in butter. Add cabbage, apples, sugar, vinegar, wine, cloves, and bay leaf.
- 2
Braise covered on low 45-60 minutes.
- 3
Remove spices. Adjust sweet-sour balance.
Expert Tips
For the best result, use the freshest, highest-quality ingredients you can find. Red cabbage, shredded is the heart of this dish, so choose it with care. Read the recipe through before you start and prep all ingredients in advance (mise en place) so the cooking process is smooth. Stovetop work especially well for this preparation. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, and acid at the end to make the flavors pop.
What To Serve With This
"Red Cabbage with Apples" is a versatile Dinner dish that pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad, roasted vegetables, crusty bread or dinner rolls and classic German sides. Choose at least one fresh and one hearty side to create a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Red Cabbage with Apples keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating to preserve texture. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the dish thickens in the fridge. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to make Red Cabbage with Apples?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep and 60 minutes of cooking, for a total of roughly 75 minutes. It serves 8 and is rated Easy.
How do I store leftover Red Cabbage with Apples?
Store leftover Red Cabbage with Apples in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to let it cool to room temperature before refrigerating. Reheat in the oven or on the stovetop for best results.
Can I make Red Cabbage with Apples ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare Red Cabbage with Apples in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving to preserve the best texture and flavor.
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