Sweet and Sour Cabbage Recipe
Introduction
Sweet and sour cabbage is a simple, comforting side dish that balances tangy vinegar with a touch of sweetness. It pairs perfectly with hearty meals and brings a burst of flavor to your plate with just a few basic ingredients.
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1/4 cup vinegar (white or apple cider)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large skillet or pot, sauté the sliced onion over medium heat until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Step 2: Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until it starts to wilt, about 8 minutes.
- Step 3: Pour in the vinegar and sprinkle the sugar over the cabbage and onions. Stir well to combine.
- Step 4: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer gently until the cabbage is tender and the flavors meld, about 15–20 minutes.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper when simmering.
- Try using apple cider vinegar for a fruitier tang.
- Add a grated carrot for color and sweetness.
- Include a few caraway seeds during cooking for a slightly nutty, aromatic twist.
Storage
Store leftover sweet and sour cabbage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. The flavors often deepen after sitting overnight.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use red cabbage instead of green?
Yes, red cabbage works well and adds a vibrant color, though it may take slightly longer to soften.
Is this dish served hot or cold?
This dish is best served warm but can also be enjoyed at room temperature or chilled as a tangy side.
PrintSweet and Sour Cabbage Recipe
Sweet and Sour Cabbage is a simple and flavorful side dish where tender cabbage is cooked with onions, then simmered in a tangy mixture of vinegar and sugar, balancing savory and sweet notes perfectly. This classic recipe is quick to prepare and pairs well with various main courses.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped (about 6 cups)
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
Seasonings
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- Salt to taste (about 1/2 teaspoon)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil or butter
Instructions
- Prepare the Vegetables: Begin by chopping the cabbage into bite-sized pieces and thinly slicing the onion to ensure even cooking and flavor distribution.
- Sauté Onions and Cabbage: Heat the vegetable oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and cook until they soften and become translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Then add the chopped cabbage, stirring frequently to combine and slightly soften, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Vinegar and Sugar: Pour in the white vinegar and sprinkle the sugar over the cabbage and onion mixture. Stir well to evenly coat all the vegetables. Season with salt to taste.
- Simmer Until Tender: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the mixture simmer gently for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and the sweet and sour flavors meld together.
- Serve: Once the cabbage is tender and flavorful, remove from heat and serve warm as a delicious side dish with your favorite meal.
Notes
- Adjust sugar and vinegar amounts to balance the sweetness and tanginess according to personal preference.
- This dish keeps well and often tastes better the next day after flavors have melded.
- You can add a pinch of black pepper or chili flakes for a slight kick.
- For a richer flavor, try using apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar.
Keywords: Sweet and Sour Cabbage, cabbage side dish, easy cabbage recipe, stovetop cabbage, tangy cabbage, vegetable side
