German Red Cabbage (Rotkohl)

German Red Cabbage (Rotkohl) is a popular German side dish that is very easy to make from scratch! It tastes so aromatic with a distinctive sweet and sour flavor and makes a perfect side for a roast dinner together with spaetzle or potato dumplings. This recipe for braised red cabbage with apples is a family favorite!

📝 Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (or lard)
• 2 medium apples (peeled, cored, and finely diced)
• 1 medium onion (finely diced)
• 2 pounds red cabbage (one medium head, thinly sliced)
• 3 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 cup apple cider (or unsweetened apple juice)
• 1 tablespoon lingonberry jam (optional)
• 2 cloves
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 juniper berries (if you can find them)
• 1 tablespoon white sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon pepper

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, melt butter over medium-high heat and sauté diced apples and onions for 2-3 minutes.
2. 2Add the red cabbage and vinegar, and stir until combined. Then add the apple cider, jam (optional), cloves, bay leaf, and juniper berries. Season with sugar, salt, and pepper.
3. 3Reduce the temperature to medium, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 50-60 minutes until the cabbage is soft but not mushy. Stir occasionally. Add a little bit more apple cider if needed.
4. 4Adjust seasoning and serve hot.