Are you tired of the same old salads and side dishes? Look no further! Red cabbage, a vibrant and nutritious vegetable, is the star of this show. With its sweet and slightly bitter flavor, red cabbage can be used in a wide variety of dishes, from hearty soups to refreshing salads. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal or a special occasion dish, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 creative recipes that showcase the versatility of red cabbage. From classic braises and slaws to innovative stir-fries and soups, these dishes are sure to inspire your culinary creativity. So grab your chef’s hat and let’s dive in!
Braised Red Cabbage with Apples
This autumnal side dish combines the natural sweetness of apples with the earthy flavor of red cabbage, all wrapped up in a rich and comforting braise. Perfect for pairing with roasted meats or as a hearty vegetarian main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium-sized red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2-3 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith or Braeburn work well), peeled and diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
Instructions:
1. In a large Dutch oven or heavy pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the sliced cabbage, diced apples, caraway seeds, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Pour in the apple cider vinegar and bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Reduce heat to low and braise for 20-25 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and the apples are caramelized.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Red Cabbage Slaw with Creamy Dressing
This slaw recipe adds a pop of color and a tangy twist to traditional coleslaw, perfect for topping burgers or sandwiches. The creamy dressing brings out the natural sweetness in the red cabbage.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the red cabbage and salt. Massage the cabbage with your hands for about 5 minutes to release its natural juices.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, and honey until smooth.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss until well coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None required. Just mix and chill!
Pickled Red Cabbage Tacos
Add a tangy twist to your taco Tuesday with these sweet and sour pickled red cabbage tacos! This recipe is perfect for those looking for a vegetarian or vegan option that’s packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 cup (250ml) apple cider vinegar
– 1/2 cup (125ml) water
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, sour cream, cilantro, lime wedges
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine sliced red cabbage and apple cider vinegar. Let it sit for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
2. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in foil and heating for 2-3 minutes.
3. Assemble tacos by spooning pickled cabbage onto a warmed tortilla, followed by your desired toppings.
4. Cook time: 2 hours (for pickling) + 5 minutes (for warming tortillas).
Cook Time: 2 hours 5 minutes
Red Cabbage and Beetroot Salad
This vibrant salad is a perfect blend of flavors and textures to warm up your autumn days. With the sweetness of beets, the crunch of cabbage, and a hint of tanginess from the dressing, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 small red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 medium beets, peeled and thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the red cabbage and beetroot slices.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, honey, and olive oil to make the dressing.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage and beetroot mixture, and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill, if desired.
6. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time included)
Red Cabbage Stir-Fry with Ginger
This colorful stir-fry is a perfect accompaniment to any meal, adding a burst of flavor and texture. With the warmth of ginger and the sweetness of red cabbage, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium head of red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 inches of fresh ginger, peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the grated ginger and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the sliced onion and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until softened.
4. Add the red cabbage and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but still crisp.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Red Cabbage Soup with Smoked Sausage
A perfect blend of sweet and savory, this soup is a comforting treat on a chilly day. The smoky flavor from the sausage adds depth to the rich red cabbage broth.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium red cabbage, chopped
– 2 smoked sausages (such as kielbasa or chorizo), sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in a little oil until softened.
2. Add the chopped red cabbage, smoked sausage, chicken broth, and caraway seeds. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes or until the cabbage is tender.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Red Cabbage and Apple Coleslaw
This refreshing slaw combines the natural sweetness of apples with the tanginess of red cabbage, making it a perfect side dish for fall gatherings. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and healthy condiment that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 Granny Smith apples, diced
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced red cabbage and diced apples.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, olive oil, and honey until well combined.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (mostly prep time)
Red Cabbage Kimchi
Add a burst of flavor to your meals with this vibrant red cabbage kimchi recipe. This Korean-inspired condiment is made with the sweetness of red cabbage, the spiciness of gochugaru, and the tanginess of fish sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons of coarse salt
– 1/4 cup of Korean chili flakes (gochugaru)
– 1/4 cup of fish sauce
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of grated ginger
– 1/4 cup of water
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, massage the sliced cabbage with coarse salt for about 5 minutes to help soften the fibers.
2. Rinse the cabbage under cold running water to remove excess salt. Drain well and set aside.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine chili flakes, fish sauce, garlic, ginger, and water. Blend until you get a smooth, spicy paste.
4. Combine the blended mixture with the red cabbage and mix everything together until the cabbage is evenly coated.
5. Pack the kimchi into an airtight container and let it ferment at room temperature for 1-2 days or refrigerate for up to 6 months.
Cooking Time: None needed! This kimchi recipe is ready when you are. Enjoy!
Roasted Red Cabbage Steaks
Roasted Red Cabbage Steaks: A Sweet and Savory Twist on Classic Slaw
Get ready to elevate your vegetable game with this simple yet impressive recipe for Roasted Red Cabbage Steaks! By cooking the cabbage in thick slices, you’ll achieve a tender, caramelized exterior and a deliciously sweet interior.
Ingredients:
– 1 large red cabbage
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme leaves
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the red cabbage into 1-inch thick slices, removing any tough or damaged leaves.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, apple cider vinegar, and honey.
4. Add the cabbage slices to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the dressing.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the cabbage slices in a single layer.
7. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until the cabbage is tender and caramelized, flipping halfway through cooking time.
Red Cabbage and Quinoa Bowl
This hearty bowl combines the sweetness of roasted red cabbage with the nutty flavor of quinoa, all topped with crunchy fresh herbs. A perfect side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss cabbage with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the cabbage on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until caramelized and tender.
4. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
5. In a small pan, sauté onion and garlic over medium heat until softened.
6. Combine cooked quinoa, roasted cabbage, and sautéed onion in a bowl.
7. Top with chopped parsley (if using) and serve.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Red Cabbage and Carrot Fritters
These fritters are a delightful twist on traditional cabbage recipes, combining the natural sweetness of red cabbage and carrots with a crispy exterior. Perfect as a snack or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium red cabbage, shredded
– 2 medium carrots, grated
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 cup water
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cabbage, carrots, and onion.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, cornstarch, salt, and baking powder.
3. Add dry ingredients to wet mixture and stir until just combined.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
5. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of batter into the hot oil, flattening slightly with spatula.
6. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Red Cabbage and Lentil Curry
This hearty and flavorful curry combines the sweetness of red cabbage with the comforting warmth of lentils, making it a perfect winter meal. With its rich colors and aromatic spices, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium red cabbage, shredded
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in a little water until softened.
2. Add lentils, cumin, curry powder, turmeric, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
3. Add shredded cabbage, vegetable broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until lentils are tender.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Red Cabbage and Orange Salad
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of oranges with the crunch of red cabbage, creating a delightful contrast of flavors and textures. Perfect for a light and healthy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 small head of red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 navel oranges, peeled and segmented
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the red cabbage and orange segments.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage and orange mixture, tossing to coat.
4. Sprinkle with chopped parsley and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Red Cabbage and Pork Dumplings
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of red cabbage with the savory flavor of pork dumplings, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion. The mixture of tender pork and crunchy cabbage is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 pound ground pork
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (green onions)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or butter for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, cook the sliced red cabbage in a little oil over medium heat until tender, about 10-12 minutes.
2. In a separate bowl, combine ground pork, flour, egg, and chopped scallions. Mix well with your hands until just combined.
3. Using wet hands, shape the pork mixture into small dumplings.
4. Add the cooked cabbage to the skillet and stir in any remaining juices.
5. Fry the dumplings in a little oil or butter until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes per side.
6. Serve hot with the red cabbage and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Red Cabbage and Walnut Pasta
Add a pop of color and flavor to your pasta dish with this simple yet elegant recipe featuring red cabbage, crunchy walnuts, and savory Parmesan cheese.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (linguine or fettuccine work well)
– 1 small red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add sliced red cabbage to the pan and cook for 5-7 minutes or until tender, stirring occasionally.
4. Stir in chopped walnuts and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked pasta and cabbage-walnut mixture. Top with grated Parmesan cheese.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Red Cabbage and Chickpea Stew
Warm up with this comforting stew that combines the sweetness of red cabbage with the creaminess of chickpeas. Perfect for a chilly evening, this recipe is quick to prepare and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 medium red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 can chickpeas (14 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14 oz)
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Add cabbage, chickpeas, broth, and diced tomatoes. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30-40 minutes or until cabbage is tender.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve hot, garnished with parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Red Cabbage and Goat Cheese Tart
A sweet and savory tart that combines the earthy flavors of red cabbage with the tanginess of goat cheese, perfect for a unique dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1/2 cup goat cheese, crumbled
– 1 cup shredded red cabbage
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch. Transfer to the prepared baking sheet.
3. In a bowl, combine crumbled goat cheese, shredded red cabbage, olive oil, and honey. Mix well.
4. Spread the cabbage mixture evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the edges of the pastry up over the filling to form a crust.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the pastry is golden brown.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves if desired. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Red Cabbage and Pineapple Smoothie
This refreshing smoothie combines the sweetness of pineapple with the earthy flavor of red cabbage, perfect for a hot summer day. With only a few ingredients, you can create a unique and healthy drink that’s packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup frozen red cabbage
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 banana, sliced
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Ice cubes (as needed)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine the frozen red cabbage, pineapple chunks, and sliced banana.
2. Add the Greek yogurt and honey to the blender.
3. Blend the mixture on high speed until smooth and creamy.
4. Add ice cubes if you prefer a thicker consistency.
5. Blend again until the ice is crushed and the smoothie is the desired thickness.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Yield: 1 serving (approx. 16 oz)
Red Cabbage and Blueberry Salad
This refreshing salad combines the sweetness of blueberries with the tanginess of red cabbage, creating a perfect harmony of flavors. A great side dish or light lunch option, this recipe is quick to prepare and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 head of red cabbage, thinly sliced
– 1 cup of fresh blueberries
– 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon of honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the sliced red cabbage and blueberries.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss to coat.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Red Cabbage and Sweet Potato Hash
This hearty hash combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with the tanginess of red cabbage, perfect for a comforting side dish or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 medium red cabbage, shredded
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper until coated.
3. Spread sweet potatoes on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
4. In a large skillet, heat remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
5. Add shredded cabbage to the skillet and cook until slightly caramelized, about 10-12 minutes.
6. Add roasted sweet potatoes to the skillet and stir to combine with cabbage mixture.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and cumin (if using).
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Summary
Discover the deliciously creative world of red cabbage recipes! This article features 20 mouthwatering dishes that showcase the versatility of this vibrant vegetable. From classic braises and slaws to global-inspired stir-fries, soups, and salads, these recipes will inspire you to get cooking. Try your hand at Braised Red Cabbage with Apples, Pickled Red Cabbage Tacos, or Red Cabbage and Beetroot Salad for a taste of something new and exciting. Whether you’re looking for a hearty stew or a refreshing smoothie, there’s something on this list for everyone. Get ready to elevate your cooking game with these flavorful red cabbage recipes!
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