7 Red Cabbage Recipes 2024: Tasty & Healthy Dishes

Red cabbage is more than a pop of color on your plate – it’s a powerhouse of flavor and nutrients that can elevate any dish. With the right recipes, this vibrant veggie brings a delightful crunch, a subtle sweetness, and even a tangy kick, transforming the simplest meals into something special.

Whether you’re tossing it into fresh, crisp salads or cooking it down for hearty, comforting dishes, red cabbage has a way of shining in every form. Try these red cabbage recipes and see just how much flavor, texture, and color this underrated vegetable can bring to your table!

1. Authentic German Rotkohl (Slow-Braised Red Cabbage)

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Slice the red cabbage into thin strips, core and chop apples, and finely chop the onion.

2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt butter over a medium heat.

3. Add the onion and cook for about 3–4 minutes until softened.

4. Stir in the apples, and cook for another 3–4 minutes until they begin to soften.

5. Add the red cabbage, vinegar, sugar, bay leaves, cloves, salt, and pepper; mix to combine.

6. Pour in water or vegetable broth, stir, and bring to a simmer.

7. Cover the pot and reduce heat to low, cooking for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.

8. Once the cabbage is tender and flavors have melded, remove from heat.

9. Let the cabbage rest in the fridge for 48 hours to develop deeper flavor, then reheat before serving.

Overview 🔍

Authentic Rotkohl (Slow-Braised Red Cabbage) is a classic German side dish that perfectly balances sweet and tangy flavors, making it an excellent accompaniment to hearty meals like roast pork or sausages. The red cabbage is slowly braised with apples, apple cider vinegar, and a blend of warm spices, which creates a tender, flavorful dish with deep, rich notes. The slow-cooking process allows the cabbage to absorb the aromatic spices and apple sweetness, making each bite a comforting experience.

Though it requires some patience, with the resting time in the fridge enhancing the flavors, this Rotkohl is well worth the wait. The final dish is tender, slightly sweet, and tangy, offering a delightful contrast to savory main courses. Whether served at a holiday meal or as a regular side dish, this authentic German recipe brings a burst of flavor and tradition to your table.

2. Savory Sweet Garlic & Herb-Roasted Red Cabbage

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Preheat the oven to 400 °F (200 °C) and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

2. Slice the red cabbage into wedges or thick slices and place them in a large mixing bowl.

3. Mince the garlic and chop the shallot into thin slices.

4. In a small bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, chopped shallot, balsamic vinegar, maple syrup (or honey), salt, and pepper.

5. Pour the oil mixture over the cabbage and toss to coat evenly.

6. Spread the cabbage evenly on the prepared baking sheet.

7. Scatter fresh herbs (such as rosemary, thyme, or oregano) over the cabbage.

8. Roast in the oven for 40–50 minutes, flipping the cabbage halfway through, until tender and slightly caramelized.

9. Remove from the oven and serve immediately.

Overview 🔍

Savory Sweet Garlic and Herb-Roasted Red Cabbage is a simple, flavor-packed side dish for any occasion. The roasted cabbage becomes tender and caramelized, while the garlic and shallots add a savory depth, complemented by the subtle sweetness of maple syrup or honey. Fresh herbs like rosemary and thyme bring an aromatic touch, making this dish a fragrant and delicious addition to any meal.

This recipe is perfect for when you’re looking for a low-effort side that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. The combination of balsamic vinegar and maple syrup balances the savory and sweet elements, enhancing the natural flavors of the red cabbage. Whether served with roasted meats or as a vegetarian side, this dish will add a burst of flavor and a touch of elegance to your meal.

3. Crisp, Colorful + Healthy Mixed Cabbage Coleslaw

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Shred the red cabbage, green cabbage, and carrot using a food processor or by hand with a sharp knife.

2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the shredded cabbage and carrot.

3. In a separate small bowl, whisk together apple cider vinegar, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.

4. Pour the dressing over the shredded cabbage mixture and toss to combine.

5. Chop fresh herbs like parsley or dill and sprinkle them over the slaw for added flavor.

6. Mix again until the herbs are evenly distributed.

7. Refrigerate the coleslaw for at least 10 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

Overview 🔍

Crisp, Colorful, and Healthy Mixed Cabbage Coleslaw is the perfect side dish for any meal that needs a fresh and crunchy addition. With a combination of red and green cabbage, carrots, and a light, tangy dressing made from apple cider vinegar and Dijon mustard, this coleslaw is as nutritious as it is flavorful. Fresh herbs like parsley or dill give it an extra pop of color and a burst of refreshing taste – it’s actually one of the easiest recipes you can make.

This coleslaw is quick and very simple to prepare, offering a healthy alternative to heavier, cream-based slaws. It’s light yet satisfying and pairs wonderfully with everything from grilled meats to sandwiches, making it a versatile addition to any meal. The vibrant colors and fresh crunch will bring a burst of flavor to your plate, while the simple, wholesome ingredients keep it healthy and delicious.

4. Korean-Inspired Kimchi Made With Red Cabbage

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Slice the red cabbage into thin strips and place it in a large mixing bowl.

2. Sprinkle the sea salt over the cabbage and massage it in for a few minutes to release moisture.

3. Let the salted cabbage sit for 30 minutes, then rinse it thoroughly and set it aside to drain.

4. Thinly slice the green onions, julienne the carrot and daikon radish, and mince the garlic and ginger.

5. In a small bowl, combine Korean chili flakes, fish sauce (or soy sauce), and sugar to create a paste.

6. Add the garlic, ginger, and sliced vegetables to the paste, mixing until everything is well-coated.

7. Combine the cabbage with the chili paste mixture, using gloves if desired to protect your hands from the chili.

8. Pack the kimchi mixture tightly into a mason jar or airtight container, pressing down as you go.

9. Leave the kimchi to ferment at room temperature for 3–15 days, checking for desired fermentation.

Overview 🔍

Korean-Inspired Kimchi Made with Red Cabbage is a spicy, tangy, and flavorful side dish that can elevate any meal with its bold taste. Using red cabbage instead of the traditional napa cabbage gives the kimchi a unique, colorful twist. The cabbage is mixed with carrots, daikon radish, and a fermented chili paste made from Korean chili flakes, garlic, ginger, and fish sauce. This creates a rich and layered flavor profile that's both vibrant and satisfying.

Though it requires some time for fermentation, the effort is well worth it. As it sits, the kimchi develops a tangy complexity that is perfect alongside grilled meats, rice dishes, or even as a stand-alone snack. The fermentation process adds beneficial probiotics, making this a delicious and healthy addition to your meal rotation. Whether you're a seasoned kimchi lover or trying it for the first time, this recipe offers a wonderful introduction to homemade kimchi with a Korean twist.

5. Red Cabbage Okonomiyaki Fritters

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Cook the jasmine rice in a small pot according to package instructions and set aside.

2. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, tempura mix, mushroom stock concentrate, grated ginger, minced garlic, salt, and pepper until smooth.

3. Add the shredded red cabbage and chopped scallions to the batter, mixing to combine.

4. Heat vegetable oil in a large pan over medium heat.

5. Spoon dollops of the batter into the pan, pressing down gently to form fritters.

6. Cook the fritters for about 3–4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.

7. While the fritters cook, whisk together the hoisin sauce, sriracha, and mayonnaise in a small bowl to create a sauce.

8. Once the fritters are done, serve them over the cooked jasmine rice and drizzle with the hoisin sauce mixture.

9. Sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving.

Overview 🔍

Red Cabbage Okonomiyaki Fritters offer a flavorful, crispy twist on a classic Japanese dish. The red cabbage adds a vibrant crunch and earthy sweetness to the savory batter, while the hoisin-sriracha sauce gives the fritters a rich, spicy-sweet glaze. Served over fluffy jasmine rice, this dish is a perfect balance of textures and flavors, combining the crispy exterior of the fritters with the delicate rice and tangy sauce.

These fritters make a great appetizer or main dish, ideal for those looking to try something new or for anyone craving a hearty, satisfying meal. The simple yet bold combination of ingredients, from the savory tempura batter to the hint of sriracha in the sauce, brings a taste of Japan straight to your table. You can experiment with extra toppings or sauces to make it your own, creating a customizable dish that's as fun to prepare as it is to eat.

6. Tasty Vegan Red Cabbage Rolls

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Preheat your oven to 375 °F (190 °C).

2. Carefully peel the leaves from the red cabbage, removing the tough stem from each leaf.

3. Bring a large pot of water to a boil and blanch the cabbage leaves for 2–3 minutes, then transfer them to an ice bath to cool. Set aside to drain.

4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion and garlic until softened.

5. Add the shredded carrots and cauliflower to the skillet and cook for another 5 minutes until tender.

6. Stir in the cooked lentils, rice, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2–3 minutes, then remove from heat.

7. Take a cabbage leaf and place a spoonful of the filling mixture in the center, rolling it up tightly.

8. Place the rolled cabbage leaves in a baking dish, seam-side down.

9. Pour the tomato sauce over the rolls and cover the baking dish with foil.

10. Bake in the preheated oven for 45 minutes, then remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to brown the tops.

Overview 🔍

Tasty Vegan Red Cabbage Rolls are a wholesome main course that's both filling and packed with flavor. These rolls are filled with a hearty mixture of green lentils, long-grain rice, and sautéed vegetables like carrots, cauliflower, and onions, all seasoned with smoked paprika and thyme for a savory, aromatic kick. Wrapped in tender red cabbage leaves, they create the perfect vessel for a nutrient-packed meal that's both satisfying and comforting.

Baking these rolls in tomato sauce brings everything together, creating a deliciously rich base that infuses each roll with flavor. Whether you're looking for a hearty vegan dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish, these cabbage rolls are a fantastic option. Their balance of textures – crunchy cabbage, tender rice, and lentils – combined with the savory, smoky flavor make them a standout dish for anyone seeking a wholesome and tasty meal.

7. Silky Herbed Red Cabbage & Beetroot Soup With Chive Crema

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Peel and chop the beets into small cubes. Shred the red cabbage and set both aside.

2. Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the garlic and sauté for 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Add the chopped beets and shredded cabbage to the pot, stirring well. Cook for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

4. Pour in the vegetable stock and bring the mixture to a simmer. Add salt, pepper, and your choice of fresh herbs (basil, thyme, oregano) and leave to cook for 30 minutes, or until the beets are tender.

5. Use an immersion blender to puree the soup until smooth. If you don't have an immersion blender, transfer the soup in batches to a regular blender.

6. In a small bowl, mix the sour cream with the chopped chives to create the chive crema.

7. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with a dollop of chive crema before serving.

Overview 🔍

Silky Herbed Red Cabbage & Beetroot Soup is a rich, velvety dish that's both hearty and comforting. The earthy sweetness of the beets combined with the mild, slightly peppery flavor of the red cabbage creates a beautifully balanced base, while fresh herbs like basil, thyme, and oregano add layers of aromatic complexity. The smooth, creamy texture of the soup is complemented by a tangy, fresh chive crema that takes each spoonful to the next level.

This soup is perfect as a main dish for a light, satisfying meal or as an appetizer to start any dinner. Its vibrant colors and flavorful depth make it as visually appealing as it is delicious, offering a burst of nutrients in every bowl. Whether you're warming up on a chilly evening or looking to impress guests with a unique dish, this soup will surely stand out with its wonderful combination of flavors and textures.

8. Red Cabbage & Sweet Potato Irish-Inspired “Colcannon”

Method 🧑‍🍳

1. Peel and chop the sweet potatoes into chunks. Place them in a large pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil and cook for 15–20 minutes until tender.

2. While the sweet potatoes are cooking, thinly slice the red cabbage and chop the onion and garlic.

3. In a separate pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.

4. Add the sliced red cabbage to the pan and sauté for another 5 minutes, until the cabbage begins to wilt. Pour in the vegetable stock, then cover and cook for an additional 10 minutes until the cabbage is tender.

5. Drain the cooked sweet potatoes and return them to the pot. Mash them with a potato masher or ricer until smooth.

6. Mix the sautéed cabbage and onion mixture into the mashed sweet potatoes. Stir in salt, pepper, and fresh chives to taste.

7. Serve the red cabbage and sweet potato colcannon as a hearty side dish.

Overview 🔍

Red Cabbage & Sweet Potato “Colcannon” offers a delightful twist on the traditional Irish dish. The sweet potatoes add a creamy, slightly sweet base, while the sautéed red cabbage provides a mild crunch and subtle tang, creating a perfect balance of flavors. Combined with savory sautéed onions, garlic, and a touch of vegetable stock, this dish is rich, comforting, and satisfying, ideal for pairing with any hearty main course.

This vibrant, veggie-packed colcannon is an excellent side dish that brings color and nutrition to the table. The addition of fresh chives provides a burst of freshness, elevating the earthy flavors of sweet potatoes and cabbage. It's a wonderful way to enjoy the rich, wholesome taste of Irish-inspired cuisine with a modern, nutritious twist.

FAQ

Is red cabbage good for you?

Yes, red cabbage is packed with nutrients and offers multiple health benefits. It’s a great source of vitamin C, vitamin K, and fiber, which help support immune health, bone strength, and digestive health. Its bright color also indicates the presence of anthocyanins which are antioxidants that can reduce inflammation and may help protect against certain diseases.

Red cabbage also supplies potassium, magnesium, and B vitamins, which contribute to heart health and energy production. Dishes like Silky Herbed Red Cabbage & Beetroot Soup enhance these benefits by combining cabbage with other nutrient-rich ingredients, creating a flavorful and nourishing meal.

What is the best way to eat red cabbage?

The best way to eat red cabbage depends on your preference, as it’s delicious both raw and cooked. Eating it raw in a dish like Crisp, Colorful, and Healthy Mixed Cabbage Coleslaw preserves its nutrients and provides a refreshing, crunchy texture. Raw red cabbage has a slightly peppery flavor, making it an ideal addition to salads and slaws.

Cooking red cabbage, on the other hand, softens its texture and brings out a mellow, sweeter taste. For a flavorful side, try braising it in vinegar and spices, as in Authentic German Rotkohl. Both raw and cooked preparations highlight the cabbage’s versatility and health benefits, allowing you to enjoy it in a variety of ways.

Can I cook red cabbage like green cabbage?

Yes, red cabbage can be cooked in a similar way to green cabbage. Both cabbages have similar textures, so methods like steaming, stir-frying, and roasting work well for both types. Red cabbage, however, tends to have a slightly stronger, more peppery flavor than green cabbage, and it also releases more color into the dish during cooking.

In dishes like Savory Sweet Garlic and Herb-Roasted Red Cabbage, the roasting process softens red cabbage and brings out a subtle sweetness. Although you can substitute red cabbage in recipes calling for green cabbage, be prepared for a slightly bolder taste and a colorful result, as red cabbage’s color intensifies during cooking.