Norwegian Braised Red Cabbage with Apples and Currant Glaze
Inspired by cherished family memories, this Norwegian Braised Red Cabbage with Apples pays homage to the traditional Christmas dish my great-grandmother Alice lovingly prepared. Although she didn't leave behind her recipe, this version captures the essence of her culinary masterpiece. The cabbage is gently cooked until tender, infused with the sweetness of apples and a delicious jam-like currant glaze. Perfect to accompany a festive dinner or a cozy family meal.
4
Servings
133-200 kcal
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
butter
4 tablespoons (melted)
sugar
2 tablespoons (granulated)
red wine vinegar
3 tablespoons (none)
salt
to taste (none)
pepper
to taste (freshly ground)
red cabbage
1 medium (cored and shredded, about 2 pounds)
apples
2 (peeled, cored, and cut into chunks)
black currant jelly
1/4 cup (none)
Instructions
1
1. In a large deep skillet with a lid, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sugar, red wine vinegar, a generous pinch of salt, and a dash of pepper. Stir until the sugar dissolves and the mixture begins to boil.
2
2. Carefully add the shredded red cabbage to the skillet, gently stirring to coat the cabbage in the buttery mixture. Continue cooking until the cabbage starts to glisten and soften slightly.
3
3. Incorporate the apple chunks into the skillet. Mix well to combine with the cabbage. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the skillet, and allow the mixture to simmer gently for approximately 45 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender.
4
4. Once the cabbage is fully cooked, stir in the black currant jelly (or red currant jelly). Ensure the jelly is evenly distributed and melts into the cabbage.
5
5. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
6
6. Serve warm as a delightful side dish accompanying your favorite festive meals or comforting family dinners.
Nutrition Information
6.7-10 g
Fat
17-26 g
Carbs
1-1.5 g
Protein
3-4.5 g
Fiber
13-19.5 g
Sugar
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Norwegian Braised Red Cabbage with Apples?
It is a traditional Norwegian side dish where red cabbage is slowly cooked with butter, vinegar, sugar, and apples, then finished with a currant jelly glaze.
Who is the inspiration behind this recipe?
This recipe is inspired by the creator's great-grandmother, Alice, and the traditional Christmas dishes she used to prepare.
What ingredients are needed for the glaze?
The glaze is made by combining butter, sugar, red wine vinegar, and black or red currant jelly.
Can I use red currant jelly instead of black currant jelly?
Yes, the recipe specifically mentions that red currant jelly is a suitable substitute for black currant jelly.
What kind of apples should I use?
The recipe suggests using two apples that are peeled, cored, and cut into chunks.
How much cabbage is required for this recipe?
You will need one medium red cabbage, which is approximately 2 pounds, cored and shredded.
Is this recipe suitable for a vegan diet?
As written, it contains butter, but it can be made vegan by substituting the butter with a plant-based oil or vegan margarine.
How long does the cabbage need to simmer?
The cabbage and apple mixture should simmer gently for approximately 45 minutes.
What type of vinegar is best for this dish?
The recipe calls for 3 tablespoons of red wine vinegar to provide the necessary acidity and flavor.
Is this a traditional Norwegian Christmas dish?
Yes, braised red cabbage is a classic accompaniment for festive Norwegian holiday dinners.
How many servings does this recipe yield?
This recipe is designed to serve 4 people.
What are the calorie counts for this side dish?
Each serving contains between 133 and 200 kcal.
How much butter is used in the recipe?
The recipe uses 4 tablespoons of melted butter.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, braised red cabbage often tastes better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld together.
How should I store leftover braised cabbage?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 5 days.
What is the carbohydrate content per serving?
Each serving contains approximately 17 to 26 grams of carbohydrates.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, based on the ingredients provided, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
What is the first step in the cooking process?
The first step is to melt the butter in a large deep skillet and dissolve the sugar, vinegar, salt, and pepper into it.
How much sugar is added to the recipe?
The recipe calls for 2 tablespoons of granulated sugar.
Can I use a slow cooker for this recipe?
While the instructions specify a skillet, you can adapt this for a slow cooker by cooking on low for 4-6 hours.
What should the final texture of the cabbage be?
The cabbage should be tender and glistening with the currant glaze.
Should the skillet be covered while cooking?
Yes, the skillet should be covered to allow the mixture to simmer gently and the cabbage to soften.
Is there any protein in this dish?
Yes, there is a small amount of protein, approximately 1 to 1.5 grams per serving.
How do I adjust the seasoning at the end?
You should taste the dish once fully cooked and add more salt or pepper as needed.
Does the recipe use freshly ground pepper?
Yes, the recipe specifies using freshly ground pepper to taste.
What is the purpose of the black currant jelly?
The jelly provides a jam-like glaze and adds a layer of fruity sweetness to the savory cabbage.
Can this dish be frozen?
Yes, braised red cabbage freezes well and can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
What are common main dishes to serve with this?
It pairs excellently with roast pork, duck, or any festive holiday meat.
How much fiber is in each serving?
Each serving provides about 3 to 4.5 grams of dietary fiber.
Can I use white cabbage instead?
While possible, red cabbage is traditional for this specific Norwegian recipe and provides a different flavor and color profile.