Apple Cider Braised Cabbage
User Reviews
5
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Prep Time
20 mins
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Cook Time
1 hr
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Total Time
1 hr 20 mins
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Servings
6 servings
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Calories
255 kcal
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Course
Side Dish, Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Apple Cider Braised Cabbage
Description
This recipe begins by browning cabbage wedges in olive oil to develop a caramelized crust, then cooking chopped bacon until browned but not crisp. Sautéed onions soften alongside minced garlic and smoked paprika, creating a savory base. Adding brown sugar, salt, and pepper balances sweetness and seasoning. Apple cider vinegar and cider simmer until reduced, then the cabbage is returned to the pan to braise covered until tender.
The braising process infuses the cabbage with smoky, sweet, and tangy flavors while softening its texture. After removing the cabbage, the sauce is reduced further to thicken. Finishing with butter enriches the sauce, and parsley adds a fresh contrast. The result is a layered side dish combining crisp-tender cabbage and a sweet-tart glaze accented by bacon and spices.
This dish pairs well with roasted or grilled meats and makes use of seasonal apple flavors, suitable for autumn or winter meals.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 1/2- pound cabbage cut through the core into 6 wedges, green, whole head
- 1/2 cup Bacon chopped
- 1 onion thinly sliced lengthwise, medium
- 4 cloves garlic minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar skip if making this low carb
- salt to taste
- black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 2 cups apple cider use sugar free for low carb
- 2 tablespoons butter unsalted
- parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large, cast iron skillet, heat the olive oil until shimmering, once hot add the cabbage wedges cut side down and brown on all sides, 6 to 7 minutes. Transfer to a plate.
- Add the bacon to the skillet and cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, browned but not crisp, about 5 minutes.
- Add the onion, cook until softened and just starting to brown, about 7-9 minutes.
- Add minced garlic, paprika, brown sugar (if using), season with salt and pepper and stir to combine.
- Stir in the apple vinegar and simmer over medium-high heat until reduced by half, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the apple cider and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Arrange the cabbage wedges in the skillet, cover and braise over medium-low heat, turning once, until tender, about 20-25 minutes.
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cabbage to a platter and cover with foil.
- Continue to boil the sauce over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until slightly thickened, about 5-8 minutes. Remove the skillet from the heat and stir in the butter until melted. Season with salt and pepper.
- Spoon the sauce over the braised cabbage and serve garnished with a sprinkle of parsley.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 255 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Calories | 255kcal | 13% |
| Carbohydrates | 22g | 7% |
| Protein | 4g | 8% |
| Fat | 17g | 26% |
| Saturated Fat | 6g | 30% |
| Trans Fat | 1g | 50% |
| Cholesterol | 23mg | 8% |
| Sodium | 191mg | 8% |
| Potassium | 367mg | 8% |
| Fiber | 3g | 12% |
| Sugar | 16g | 32% |
| Vitamin A | 400IU | 8% |
| Vitamin C | 44mg | 49% |
| Calcium | 64mg | 6% |
| Iron | 1mg | 6% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.