Spiced Red Cabbage with Apples and Cranberries

Name: Spiced Red Cabbage with Apples and Cranberries
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 medium red cabbage, shredded; 2 apples, cored and sliced; 1 cup fresh cranberries; 1 onion, finely chopped; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon; 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg; 1/4 teaspoon ground cloves; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar; 1/4 cup brown sugar

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

This vibrant dish combines the earthy sweetness of apples and the tartness of cranberries with the bold flavor of spiced red cabbage, making it a delightful side for any meal.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-04T18:41:51.736Z

Spiced Red Cabbage with Apples and Cranberries is a dish that celebrates the flavors of fall. The sweetness of apples complements the tanginess of cranberries, while the spices enhance the natural flavors of the red cabbage. This colorful dish not only looks stunning on the plate but also brings a burst of flavor to your table.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A beautiful combination of sweet and tangy flavors
Nutritious and packed with vitamins
Perfect for holiday feasts or a cozy dinner
Easy to prepare with minimal ingredients

      

The Perfect Holiday Side Dish

Spiced Red Cabbage with Apples and Cranberries is not just a dish; it's a celebration on a plate. The vibrant colors and flavors make it an ideal accompaniment for holiday feasts, family gatherings, or cozy dinners at home. Its sweet and tangy profile complements a variety of main dishes, from roasted meats to vegetarian options, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

Beyond its visual appeal, this dish is a nutritional powerhouse. Red cabbage is rich in vitamins C and K, while apples provide dietary fiber and antioxidants. Cranberries contribute additional health benefits, including anti-inflammatory properties. Serving this dish means you can indulge in deliciousness while also nourishing your body.

Simple and Quick Preparation

One of the standout features of this Spiced Red Cabbage recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this delightful side dish in no time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or when unexpected guests arrive. The minimal preparation required makes it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.

The method involves basic sautéing and simmering, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. You can easily make this dish ahead of time; just reheat it before serving. This not only saves you time on the day of your gathering but also enhances the flavors, as they have more time to develop.

Customizing Your Dish

While this recipe offers a fantastic balance of flavors, feel free to customize it to suit your taste preferences. Consider adding nuts for a crunchy texture or experimenting with different spices like ginger or allspice for a unique twist. If you prefer a sweeter dish, increase the amount of brown sugar or add a drizzle of maple syrup.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding a pinch of red pepper flakes can give the dish an exciting kick. Additionally, you can substitute the apples with pears or use dried cranberries if fresh ones are not available. This flexibility allows you to make the recipe your own while still enjoying the delicious harmony of flavors.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Spiced Red Cabbage

1 medium red cabbage, shredded
2 apples, cored and sliced
1 cup fresh cranberries
1 onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
Salt and pepper to taste
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup brown sugar

Combine all ingredients in a large mixing bowl and set aside before cooking.

Instructions

Sauté the onions

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add cabbage and spices

Stir in the shredded red cabbage, ground cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves. Cook for another 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Incorporate apples and cranberries

Add the sliced apples and cranberries to the pot, mixing well.

Add vinegar and sugar

Pour in the apple cider vinegar and sprinkle the brown sugar over the mixture. Stir to combine.

Simmer

Cover the pot and let the mixture simmer for 15 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve warm as a side dish to your favorite main courses.

Storage and Reheating

Spiced Red Cabbage with Apples and Cranberries can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. This makes it an excellent option for meal prepping or making a large batch for gatherings. The flavors continue to deepen as it sits, making it even more delicious the next day.

When it comes time to reheat, simply warm it in a pot over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave individual servings. Just be cautious not to overcook it during reheating as you want to maintain the cabbage's tender texture.

Pairing Suggestions

This vibrant dish pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses. For a classic holiday meal, serve it alongside roasted turkey, ham, or prime rib. The sweet and sour notes of the cabbage complement the savory flavors of meat, creating a harmonious balance on your plate.

For vegetarian options, consider pairing it with hearty grain dishes like quinoa or farro. The dish also works well with creamy sides like mashed potatoes or a rich vegetable lasagna, making it a versatile addition to any table.

Health Benefits of Key Ingredients

Red cabbage is not only visually stunning but also packed with nutrients. It contains high levels of vitamin C, which supports the immune system, and vitamin K, essential for bone health. Additionally, the antioxidants in red cabbage help combat oxidative stress in the body.

Apples are another fantastic ingredient, offering fiber and vitamin C. They play a crucial role in digestive health and can aid in weight management. Cranberries, known for their tart flavor, are rich in vitamins and have been linked to urinary tract health, making this dish a health-conscious choice for any meal.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use green cabbage instead of red?

Yes, you can substitute green cabbage, but the color and flavor will be different.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Is this dish suitable for vegans?

Yes, this recipe is naturally vegan and does not contain any animal products.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it before serving.