Description
The Mary Berry Christmas Red Cabbage Recipe is a traditional side dish made by slowly cooking red cabbage with apples, onions, brown sugar, and festive spices like cinnamon and cloves. The addition of red wine vinegar provides a tangy flavor that cuts through the richness of other holiday dishes. This slow-simmered dish is perfect for preparing ahead of time and reheating before serving, making it convenient for busy holiday cooking.
Ingredients
- Red Cabbage (1 medium, finely shredded): The star of the dish, red cabbage brings a vibrant color and crisp texture.
- Red Onion (1, finely sliced): Adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Cooking Apples (2, peeled and chopped): Add a sweet and tart contrast to the cabbage.
- Brown Sugar (2 tbsp): Helps to caramelize the cabbage and balances the tangy vinegar.
- Red Wine Vinegar (4 tbsp): Brings acidity, which enhances the flavor of the cabbage.
- Ground Cinnamon (1 tsp): Adds a warm, festive spice to the dish.
- Ground Cloves (½ tsp): Gives the cabbage a rich, aromatic flavor.
- Butter (25g): Used to sauté the onion and add richness to the dish.
- Salt and Pepper: To season and bring out the flavors.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by preparing all the ingredients before you begin cooking.
- Shred the Cabbage: Finely shred the red cabbage and set it aside.
- Chop the Apples: Peel and chop the cooking apples into small cubes.
- Slice the Onion: Finely slice the red onion to get an even texture when cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Cabbage and Apples
Now, it’s time to start cooking the red cabbage and apples together.
- Sauté the Onion: Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook for about 5 minutes until softened but not browned.
- Add the Cabbage and Apples: Stir in the shredded red cabbage and chopped apples, mixing well to combine.
Step 3: Add the Flavors
This step is where the festive flavors come into play.
- Stir in the Spices: Add the ground cinnamon and ground cloves, stirring to coat the cabbage evenly with the spices.
- Add Sugar and Vinegar: Sprinkle the brown sugar over the cabbage mixture, followed by the red wine vinegar. Stir well to ensure everything is coated and the flavors are balanced.
Step 4: Simmer the Cabbage
Now, let the cabbage simmer to bring out the flavors.
- Cover and Cook: Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and let the cabbage cook for about 45 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent it from sticking.
- Adjust Seasoning: After 45 minutes, check the cabbage for tenderness and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Serve the Cabbage
Once your cabbage is perfectly tender and flavorful, it’s ready to serve.
- Serve Warm: Transfer the Christmas red cabbage to a serving dish and serve it warm. It pairs beautifully with roasted meats or as a festive vegetarian side.