
Authentic German Rotkohl
Traditional German braised red cabbage with apples, onions, and spices.
15 mins
Prep Time
60 mins
Cook Time
6
Servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium head red cabbage (about 2 lbs), finely shredded
- 2 medium apples, peeled and diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp butter
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 bay leaf
- 3 whole cloves
- 5 juniper berries (optional)
- 1/2 cup apple juice or red wine
- Salt and pepper to taste
Nutrition Facts
Instructions
Prepare the cabbage: Remove outer leaves and core from the cabbage. Cut into quarters and slice thinly with a sharp knife or mandoline.
Sauté aromatics: Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
Add cabbage: Stir in the shredded cabbage and cook for 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until it begins to wilt.
Add remaining ingredients: Stir in apples, vinegar, sugar, bay leaf, cloves, juniper berries, and apple juice. Season with salt and pepper.
Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until cabbage is very tender.
Adjust seasoning: Remove bay leaf and whole spices. Taste and adjust seasoning with more vinegar, sugar, or salt as needed.
Serve: Transfer to a serving dish and serve warm as a traditional side to roasted meats.
Chef's Tips
- Vinegar Tip: The vinegar helps maintain the cabbage's vibrant red color during cooking.
- Make Ahead: Rotkohl tastes even better the next day as flavors develop.
- Storage: Keeps well in refrigerator for up to 5 days or can be frozen for 3 months.
- Traditional Pairing: Perfect with roast goose, duck, pork, or sausages.
- Spice Variation: Some recipes include cinnamon stick or allspice berries for extra warmth.