Discover the delightful flavors of Germany with our Balsamic Braised Red Cabbage and Onions! This vibrant dish not only adds a pop of color to your table but also tantalizes your taste buds with its sweet and tangy notes. Perfect as a side dish for any meal, this recipe transforms humble ingredients into a gourmet experience that will leave your guests asking for seconds. With just a few simple steps and a little patience, you can create a dish that's both comforting and sophisticated. Ready to impress? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: German
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium red cabbage, sliced
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon sugar
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables by thoroughly washing the red cabbage and removing any tough outer leaves. Slice the cabbage into thin, uniform strips using a sharp knife, ensuring even cooking.
- Peel the large onion and slice it into thin, half-moon shaped pieces that will caramelize beautifully during cooking.
- Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Allow the oil to warm and become shimmering but not smoking.
- Add sliced onions to the pan and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become translucent and start to soften, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add the sliced red cabbage to the onions, stirring to combine and coat the cabbage with the olive oil and onion mixture.
- Pour in the balsamic vinegar, which will add a rich, tangy flavor to the dish. Sprinkle sugar over the cabbage to balance the acidity and help with caramelization.
- Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper, adjusting to your taste preferences.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and let the cabbage braise slowly for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- The cabbage is done when it's tender and has a deep, rich color, with the balsamic vinegar reduced to a glossy coating.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, then remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
- Serve hot as a side dish, garnishing with additional fresh ground pepper if desired.
Tips
- Choose the Right Cabbage: Opt for a medium-sized red cabbage that feels heavy for its size. This ensures you get the freshest and most flavorful cabbage for your dish.
- Uniform Slicing: When slicing the cabbage, aim for thin, uniform strips. This helps the cabbage cook evenly and absorb the delicious flavors of the balsamic vinegar.
- Caramelize the Onions: Take your time when sautéing the onions. Allow them to cook slowly until they are translucent and slightly golden, which enhances their sweetness and adds depth to the dish.
- Adjust the Sweetness: Depending on your taste preference, feel free to adjust the amount of sugar. A little extra can help balance the acidity of the balsamic vinegar, making the dish even more enjoyable.
- Braise for Flavor: Don’t rush the braising process! Allowing the cabbage to cook low and slow for 25-30 minutes will deepen the flavors and create a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
- Serve with Style: For an extra touch, garnish with freshly ground black pepper before serving. This simple addition can elevate the presentation and flavor of your dish.
- Pairing Suggestions: This dish pairs beautifully with roasted meats, sausages, or even as a topping for sandwiches. Get creative and enjoy the versatility of this delicious side!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 95kcal
Carbohydrates: 18g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 3g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
