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Mary Berry Christmas Red Cabbage Recipe

Mary Berry Christmas Red Cabbage

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.