- Apples (2 medium-sized, preferably sweet varieties like Golden Delicious or Braeburn)
- Carrots (2 small, optional but enhances flavor)
- Onions (1 large, finely chopped for best results)
- Olive oil (3 tablespoons) - healthy and adds a nice flavor
- Garlic cloves (3-4, minced for extra depth of taste)
- Brown sugar (2 tablespoons) - balances the bitterness of cabbage
- Soy sauce (2 tablespoons) - enhances umami flavor; use gluten-free if needed
- Apple cider vinegar or red wine vinegar (1 tablespoon) - adds tanginess without overpowering
- Thyme leaves (a handful, fresh or dried for aromatic notes)
- Black pepper (freshly ground, to taste) - sharpens the overall taste profile
- Salt (to taste) - don't forget to season
- Fresh parsley (for garnish, optional but adds freshness)
SEO Keywords: braised red cabbage recipe, apples in red cabbage, healthy braising ingredients, garlic for flavor, apple cider vinegar for tanginess
Steps
### Braised Red Cabbage with Apples Recipe
Braised red cabbage with apples is not only delicious but also packed with flavor. This hearty dish combines the sweet and tangy flavors of red cabbage with the natural sweetness of apples, creating a perfect blend that's both satisfying and nutritious.
#### Ingredients:
- 1 large head of red cabbage, cored and shredded
- 2 medium-sized apples (Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- ⅓ cup water
#### Instructions:
**Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage and Apples**
- Begin by washing the red cabbage thoroughly. Remove the tough outer leaves and cut out the core.
- Shred the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Peel and quarter the apples, then slice them.
**SEO Tip:** Use keywords like "prepare," "wash," "shredded," "quarter" to ensure your recipe ranks well for search engines.
**Step 2: Cook the Garlic**
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it, as this can give the dish an off taste.
**SEO Tip:** Include "garlic" and "medium heat" in your recipe title or meta description for better SEO performance.
**Step 3: Sauté the Cabbage**
- Add the shredded red cabbage to the skillet with garlic.
- Stir frequently until the cabbage starts to soften, about 5 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
**SEO Tip:** Use "stir" and "soften" in your recipe steps to optimize for search terms related to cooking techniques.
**Step 4: Add Apples and Vinegar**
- Reduce heat to low.
- Add the sliced apples to the skillet, spreading them evenly over the cabbage. Pour in apple cider vinegar and water.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and let it braise for about 20 minutes or until the cabbage is tender and the liquid has mostly reduced.
**SEO Tip:** Include "reduce" and "braise" in your recipe to optimize for related keywords.
**Step 5: Sweeten the Dish**
- Uncover the skillet and add honey, stirring well. The heat from the cabbage will help melt the honey.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the apples are tender and the mixture has thickened slightly.
**SEO Tip:** Use "sweeten" and "thicken" in your recipe steps to improve search visibility.
**Step 6: Serve**
- Remove from heat and let it cool slightly before serving. This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as a side dish.
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#### Nutritional Benefits:
This dish is rich in vitamins C, K, and fiber from the red cabbage, providing a healthy meal option. The apples add natural sweetness without excess sugar.
By following these detailed steps, you can enjoy a delicious, nutritious braised red cabbage with apples that's perfect for any occasion. Happy cooking!