Rotkohl — Braised Red Cabbage Recipe

Rotkohl — Braised Red Cabbage Recipe

By Sarah Mitchell June 14, 2026

Prep: 10 min
Cook: 55 min
Servings: 6
Difficulty: Easy
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Sweet and tangy braised red cabbage with apple and red wine — the essential German side dish for roasts and holiday meals.

About This Recipe

"Rotkohl — Braised Red Cabbage" is a Dinner recipe that brings head red cabbage, shredded, apples, diced, onion, diced, red wine vinegar and red wine together into a flavorful, well-balanced dish. Rated Easy and ready in about 65 minutes, this recipe fits easily into a busy schedule. It serves 6 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 apples, diced
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • 0.5 cup red wine
  • 2 tbsp sugar
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 4 whole cloves

Instructions

  1. 1

    Sauté onion in butter. Add shredded cabbage and cook 5 minutes.

  2. 2

    Add apples, vinegar, wine, sugar, bay leaves, and cloves.

  3. 3

    Cover and braise on low heat for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally.

  4. 4

    Season with salt and pepper. Remove bay leaves and cloves before serving.

Expert Tips

For the best result, use the freshest, highest-quality ingredients you can find. Head 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

"Rotkohl — Braised Red Cabbage" 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

Rotkohl — Braised Red Cabbage 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)

453
Calories
31g
Protein
20g
Fat
35g
Carbs
4g
Fiber
6g
Sugar
696mg
Sodium

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to make Rotkohl — Braised Red Cabbage?

This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep and 55 minutes of cooking, for a total of roughly 65 minutes. It serves 6 and is rated Easy.

How do I store leftover Rotkohl — Braised Red Cabbage?

Store leftover Rotkohl — Braised Red Cabbage 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 Rotkohl — Braised Red Cabbage ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare Rotkohl — Braised Red Cabbage 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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