This easy Braised Red Cabbage with Apples recipe is the perfect simple vegan side dish that’s healthy, delicious, and a great way to add color to many hearty meals. It’s a traditional favorite family recipe that should not be missing from the Thanksgiving or Christmas menu!
Add the shredded red cabbage to a bowl. Sprinkle with ¾ tsp of salt and massage it with your hands for a few minutes. Then set aside while it becomes a little softer.
In the meantime, heat the vegan butter in a large heavy-bottom saucepan. Add the diced onion and apples and sauté for about 5 minutes. Then add the red cabbage and red wine and let it cook down briefly. Add the apple vinegar, apple juice, bay leaves as well as black pepper, agave syrup, and pimento to taste. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to a simmer and braise for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally (add more liquid if necessary). Finally, taste and adjust with salt, pepper, and agave syrup.
Optional step: If you prefer it thicker, stir 1 tsp of cornstarch into 3-4 tbsp of water in a cup. Then stir the mixture into the red cabbage, and let it cook for a short while until it thickens.
Remove the bay leaves before serving. Enjoy!
Notes
The red cabbage tastes even better the next day when warmed up. Therefore I recommend cooking it one day ahead.
Please read my blog post for detailed storing, preserving, and freezing instructions + more tips and information on this recipe.