Braised Red Cabbage with Apples and Balsamic Vinegar

Braised Red Cabbage with Apples and Balsamic Vinegar ingredients

• 1 medium head red cabbage
• 4 strips bacon
• 2 tbsp unsalted butter
• 1 medium yellow onion
• 2 medium Granny Smith apples
• 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
• 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1/2 cup water or vegetable broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 3 whole cloves
• 1 tsp kosher salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

How to make Braised Red Cabbage with Apples and Balsamic Vinegar

1. Core and thinly slice the medium head of red cabbage. You can use a mandoline for very thin, even slices, or a sharp knife.
2. If using bacon, chop 4 strips into 1/2-inch pieces. In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
3. Add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter to the pot with the bacon fat (or just butter if omitting bacon). Add the thinly sliced yellow onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until softened and translucent.
4. Stir in the sliced red cabbage and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the cabbage begins to wilt and turn a vibrant purple color.
5. Peel, core, and dice the 2 Granny Smith apples. Add the diced apples to the pot with the cabbage.
6. Pour in 1/4 cup of apple cider vinegar, 1/4 cup of balsamic vinegar, and 1/2 cup of water or vegetable broth. Stir in 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper.
7. Add 1 bay leaf and 3 whole cloves to the pot. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and braise for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is very tender.
8. Remove the bay leaf and whole cloves before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or a touch more vinegar or sugar for balance.
9. Stir in the crispy bacon pieces, if using, just before serving to maintain their texture. Serve warm as a flavorful, vibrant side dish.

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