Braised Red Cabbage with Apple Cider Vinegar
Tender red cabbage is slowly braised with onion, apple cider vinegar, and a touch of honey for a colorful side dish with the perfect balance of sweetness and acidity.
Serves: 4–6 | Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Apple cider vinegar brightens the cabbage and balances its natural sweetness.
Honey adds gentle sweetness without overpowering the dish.
Slow braising creates tender cabbage with plenty of flavor.
Its deep color makes it especially attractive on a holiday table.
It can be prepared ahead and reheated before serving.
Ingredients
1 small head red cabbage (about 2 pounds), thinly sliced
1 small onion, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
¼ cup water or low-sodium vegetable broth
2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon honey
¼ cup raisins (optional)
½ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or sauté pan over medium heat. Add the onion and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
Add the cabbage and cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it begins to soften.
Stir in the water or broth, apple cider vinegar, honey, raisins if using and black pepper.
Cover and reduce the heat to medium-low. Cook for 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender.
Uncover and cook for 2–3 minutes, if necessary, until any excess liquid evaporates. Taste and add a little more vinegar or honey if needed. Serve warm.
Cook’s Notes
Slice the cabbage thinly and evenly so it cooks at the same rate.
Water works perfectly well, but no-salt-added vegetable broth provides additional depth.
The raisins are optional and may be omitted for a less-sweet side dish.
For a subtle warming note, add a small pinch of cinnamon with the braising liquid.
Make Ahead
Prepare the cabbage up to two days ahead, refrigerate it, and reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.
Storage
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to four days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Complete the Meal
Serve this braised red cabbage alongside our Roasted Chicken with Honey Pan Sauce, then finish the meal with Vanilla Poached Peaches.