Rotkohl (Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage) | German Recipes

Total Time: 1 hr 20 mins Difficulty: Beginner
A traditional German side dish of red cabbage simmered with apples and spices, bringing a sweet-tart balance to holiday meals.

Bring a taste of Germany to your table with Rotkohl, a sweet and tangy red cabbage dish traditionally served as a side at festive meals. Slowly cooked with apples, vinegar, sugar, and spices, this vibrant dish pairs beautifully with roast meats and hearty entrees. Rotkohl is simple to make and gets even more flavorful with time, making it an ideal make-ahead recipe that’s perfect for holidays or family dinners alike.

Rotkohl (Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage) | German Recipes

Rotkohl, or sweet and sour red cabbage, is a staple in German cuisine, especially during the holiday season. This dish starts by gently cooking shredded red cabbage with apples, onions, vinegar, and a touch of sugar for balance. The result is a beautiful deep purple side that’s tangy, sweet, and savory all at once. Slow-cooked on the stovetop, Rotkohl becomes tender and full of flavor, making it an excellent accompaniment to rich, hearty dishes like roasted meats, sausages, or even vegetarian mains. Customize the seasoning to your taste, or prepare it a day ahead for even deeper flavors.

Rotkohl (Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage) | German Recipes
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Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 1 hr Rest Time 5 mins Total Time 1 hr 20 mins Difficulty: Beginner Cooking Temp: 160  °C Estimated Cost: $ 10 Calories: 120 kcal per serving Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Prepare the cabbage

    Remove the outer leaves of the cabbage, cut it in half, and remove the core. Shred the cabbage into thin strips.

  2. Sauté onions and apples

     In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and apple, sautéing for about 3-4 minutes until softened.

  3. Add cabbage and seasoning

     Stir in the shredded cabbage, then add vinegar, brown sugar, salt, allspice, and cloves. Mix everything well to coat the cabbage with the seasonings.

  4. Cook the cabbage

    Pour in the water or vegetable broth, reduce heat to low, and cover. Simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and flavors have melded.

  5. Rest and serve

    Let the Rotkohl rest for 5 minutes. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve warm as a side dish.

Nutrition Facts

Amount Per Serving
Calories 120kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 4g7%
Saturated Fat 2g10%
Cholesterol 5mg2%
Sodium 200mg9%
Potassium 300mg9%
Total Carbohydrate 19g7%
Dietary Fiber 5g20%
Sugars 12g
Protein 1g2%

Vitamin A 600 IU
Vitamin C 40 mg
Calcium 50 mg
Iron 1 mg
Vitamin E 1 IU
Vitamin K 8 mcg
Thiamin 0.1 mg
Riboflavin 0.1 mg
Niacin 0.5 mg
Vitamin B6 0.2 mg
Folate 30 mcg
Phosphorus 50 mg
Magnesium 15 mg
Zinc 0.2 mg
Copper 0.1 mg
Manganese 0.5 mg

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

  • Storage: Leftover Rotkohl can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. The flavor deepens over time, making it an excellent make-ahead dish.
  • Customize Sweetness: Adjust the sugar based on preference. For a sweeter flavor, add an extra tablespoon of brown sugar.
  • Make it a Meal: Serve Rotkohl alongside roast goose, pork, or sausages for a complete, traditional German meal.
  • Add a Twist: Enhance flavor with a bay leaf, juniper berries, or even a cinnamon stick for a holiday twist.
Keywords: Rotkohl, Sweet & Sour Red Cabbage, German Christmas Recipes, Side Dish, Tangy & Savory

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Petrina

Food and Mom Blogger

Hi, I’m Petrina, a mom who loves researching and creating recipes for healthy family meals. I’m passionate about finding ways to make nutritious dishes that everyone in my family can enjoy. Join me on this journey as I share delicious recipes that promote health and happiness for families!

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