Get ready to transform an ordinary vegetable into a culinary masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds! This Sweet and Sour Cabbage recipe, inspired by the legendary Chef Emeril Lagasse, is not just another side dish – it's a tantalizing journey of flavors that combines the perfect balance of tangy vinegar, rich brown sugar, and perfectly caramelized cabbage. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe promises to elevate your dining experience with its simple yet incredibly delicious approach to preparing cabbage.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Cajun
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup ketchup
- 1 onion, sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing and chopping the cabbage into medium-sized pieces, thinly slicing the onion, and measuring out all liquid and seasoning components.
- Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat until the oil shimmers and becomes fragrant.
- Add sliced onions to the hot oil and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add chopped cabbage to the skillet and stir to combine with the onions, ensuring even distribution and coating with the olive oil.
- In a separate mixing bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, ketchup, salt, and pepper to create the sweet and sour sauce.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the cabbage and onion mixture, stirring thoroughly to ensure all cabbage is coated with the sauce.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and allow the cabbage to simmer and steam for approximately 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Check cabbage for tenderness - it should be soft but not mushy, with a slight bite remaining.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Remove from heat and let stand for 2-3 minutes before serving hot as a side dish.
Tips
- Choose a fresh, firm cabbage head for the best texture and flavor. Look for crisp, tightly packed leaves without any brown spots.
- Don't rush the caramelization process - letting the onions develop a golden color builds deeper flavor complexity.
- Use a heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven to ensure even heat distribution and prevent burning.
- Stir occasionally during cooking to prevent the cabbage from sticking and to ensure even sauce coating.
- For extra depth, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the sweet and sour sauce.
- This dish tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance for meal prep or gatherings.
- Serve as a perfect side dish for grilled meats, roasted chicken, or as a standalone vegetarian option.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 174kcal
Carbohydrates: g
Protein: g
Fat: g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
