German Red Cabbage (Rotkohl)

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is both comforting and versatile, offering a perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory flavors. It’s a traditional side that can be made ahead of time, and the flavor only improves as it sits. Plus, it’s naturally gluten-free, inexpensive to prepare, and a colorful addition to any plate.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 tablespoons salted butter
• 1 yellow onion, chopped
• 1 large Granny Smith apple, peeled and chopped
• 1 head red cabbage, sliced very thin
• 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1 cup apple cider or apple juice
• 1 tablespoon granulated sugar
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 whole cloves
• 2 juniper berries
• ½ teaspoon salt

Directions

1. Melt butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Stir in the chopped apple and cook for another 2–3 minutes.
3. Add the sliced red cabbage, red wine vinegar, apple cider, sugar, bay leaf, cloves, juniper berries, and salt. Mix well.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for about 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes about 6 servings. Preparation takes around 15 minutes, and cooking time is about 1 hour, for a total of 1 hour 15 minutes.

Variations

• Add a splash of red wine for deeper flavor.
• Replace apple cider with cranberry juice for a tart twist.
• Stir in a bit of lingonberry or red currant jam for extra sweetness.
• Use brown sugar or honey instead of white sugar for a richer flavor.
• Add cinnamon or allspice for a warmer spice profile.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warm. Rotkohl also freezes well for up to 2 months thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

What is Rotkohl?

Rotkohl is a traditional German braised red cabbage dish flavored with apples, vinegar, and spices.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, in fact, the flavor deepens and improves after sitting for a day or two.

What apples work best?

Tart apples like Granny Smith are ideal because they balance the sweetness and acidity of the dish.

Do I need juniper berries?

They add a traditional flavor, but the dish is still delicious if you omit them.

Can I use green cabbage instead?

Red cabbage is traditional for this dish, but green cabbage can be used it just won’t have the same color or flavor depth.

How do I keep the cabbage color vibrant?

The vinegar helps preserve the bright purple color during cooking.

What main dishes pair well with Rotkohl?

It’s excellent with roasted meats, duck, schnitzel, or German sausages.

Is this dish vegetarian?

Yes, it’s vegetarian and can easily be made vegan by using oil instead of butter.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes, combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–7 hours or on high for 3–4 hours.

Can I freeze Rotkohl?

Yes, it freezes very well for up to 2 months and reheats beautifully.

Conclusion

German Red Cabbage (Rotkohl) is a colorful, flavorful side dish that brings authentic German flavors to your table. Sweet, tangy, and tender, it pairs perfectly with a variety of hearty main courses. Whether you’re preparing it for a family meal or a festive holiday spread, this traditional recipe is one you’ll want to make again and again.

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