Christmas spiced red cabbage
This classic recipe for Christmas-spiced red cabbage is an essential side dish during the holiday season. It’s a versatile dish that can be made in advance, making it perfect for holiday meal planning. For incredibly delicious flavor, cook the cabbage quietly over low heat until it becomes wonderfully sticky. This slow cooking method ensures that the cabbage absorbs all the rich, festive spices, creating a delicious dish that will leave your guests wanting more. Prepare this delicious red cabbage dish and add a touch of Christmas magic to your table!
Ingredients
- 1 large red cabbage (approx. 1 kg)
- 25g butter
- 2 red onions, finely chopped
- finely grated zest and juice of 1 orange
- 1 cinnamon stick
- 150ml port
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
Tip
Move forward
You can prepare the cabbage for up to 2 days
Prepare and refrigerate or freeze
up to 1 month. Add some water before heating
Cook thoroughly in a pot or in the microwave.Sweeten up
If you prefer a sweeter result, add 1 tablespoon brown sugar or 1 tablespoon currant jelly.
Our favorite additions
Would you like to give your cabbage a special touch? Add a drizzle of crème de cassis or boost the spicy flavors with a few cloves and star anise. A splash more vinegar increases the spiciness or enhances the flavor and texture with a few cumin seeds or juniper berries and chopped apple.
Preparation steps
- Peel off the outer leaves of the cabbage, then quarter and cut out the core.
- Use a sharp knife or the cutting attachment of a food processor to thinly slice the cabbage.
- Heat the butter in a large pot.
- Add the onions and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the orange peel to the pan along with the cinnamon stick and let it cook for another minute.
- Add the shredded cabbage to the pan.
- Pour port wine, red wine vinegar, orange juice and 150 ml water over it.
- Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to simmer, cover pan, and cook until cabbage is tender, 45 minutes to 1 hour.
Nutritional Information
| kcal | fat | saturates | carbohydrates | Sugar | fiber | protein | Salt |
| 82 | 3g | 2g | 10g | 9g | 4g | 2g | 0.06g |
Equipment and tools
To prepare Christmas-spiced red cabbage, you will need the following equipment and tools:
- A sharp knife
- A cutting board
- A large pot or casserole dish with a lid
- A grater
- A wooden spoon
- A measuring cup
Allergen information
This Christmas Spiced Red Cabbage recipe contains the following allergens:
- Butter – dairy products
Storage and leftovers
If you have leftovers or would like to prepare the Christmas-spiced red cabbage in advance, here are some storage tips:
Cooling:
- You can prepare the cabbage up to 2 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
- Before reheating, add a little water and heat in a pot or in the microwave.
Freeze:
- You can freeze the cabbage for up to 1 month.
- Before reheating, add a little water and heat in a pot or in the microwave.
Additional tips:
- If you prefer a sweeter result, add 1 tablespoon brown sugar or 1 tablespoon currant jelly.
- To enhance the flavor, you can also add a drizzle of crème de cassis or a few cloves and star anise.
- To increase spiciness or give the dish more flavor and texture, you can add a little more vinegar, cumin, juniper berries or chopped apple.
The health benefits of Christmas spiced red cabbage
Not only is Christmas-spiced red cabbage a delicious and colorful addition to your holiday table, it also offers numerous health benefits. Packed with nutrients and antioxidants, this festive dish is the perfect choice for anyone who wants to enjoy a healthy and nutritious meal.
1. Rich in vitamins and minerals
Red cabbage, the main ingredient in this dish, is a nutritional powerhouse. It is an excellent source of vitamins C, K and B6, as well as minerals such as potassium, manganese and folic acid. These nutrients play an essential role in maintaining a healthy immune system, supporting bone health, and promoting overall wellness.
2. Abundance of antioxidants
The bright red color of red cabbage is a clear indication of its high antioxidant content. Antioxidants help protect the body from oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease and certain cancers. Eating antioxidant-rich foods like red cabbage can contribute to a healthier, more resilient body.
3. Anti-inflammatory properties
Cinnamon, one of the main spices in this recipe, has powerful anti-inflammatory properties. It can help reduce inflammation in the body, which is the cause of many chronic diseases. Including cinnamon in your meals, such as Christmas-spiced red cabbage, can help reduce symptoms of inflammation and improve overall health.
4. Support Digestive Health
The inclusion of red wine vinegar and orange peel and juice in this recipe not only adds flavor but also provides a digestive effect. These ingredients contain enzymes that aid digestion, promote gut health, and support a healthy digestive system. Including Christmas-spiced red cabbage in your festive menu can help keep your digestive system in check.
5. Low in calories and high in fiber
If you’re watching your calorie intake during the holidays, rest assured that Christmas-spiced red cabbage is a slimming choice. Since only 25 grams of butter are used in the entire recipe, it is a relatively low-calorie dish. In addition, red cabbage itself is rich in fiber, which promotes satiety and supports healthy digestion.
In summary, Christmas-spiced red cabbage not only brings a pop of flavor and bright color to your festive table, but also brings a variety of health benefits. From boosting your immune system to promoting a healthy digestive system, this dish is a nutritious and delicious addition to your feast.
