Jamie Oliver’s Braised Red Cabbage Recipe

Jamie Oliver’s Braised Red Cabbage is the perfect side dish that beautifully balances rich, savory flavors with a slight sweetness and tang, offering a vibrant and hearty addition to any meal, especially during colder months or festive gatherings. It’s simple yet sophisticated, making it a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their culinary repertoire.

What Is Jamie Oliver’s Braised Red Cabbage

Jamie Oliver’s Braised Red Cabbage is a delicious, slow-cooked dish that takes the earthy, crunchy texture of red cabbage and transforms it into a tender, flavorful accompaniment. Braised with ingredients such as apples, onions, vinegar, and a touch of sugar, the cabbage soaks in a blend of sweet and tangy flavors, creating a perfect harmony of tastes. This dish is a perfect side to roast meats, particularly pork, turkey, or sausages, and is often seen in festive and hearty winter meals.

Jamie Oliver’s Braised Red Cabbage Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To prepare Jamie Oliver’s Braised Red Cabbage, you’ll need:

• 1 medium red cabbage
• 1 apple (preferably a tart variety like Bramley)
• 1 large onion
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil
• 1 tablespoon of sugar (brown sugar works best)
• 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar (or cider vinegar)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1-2 teaspoons of ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon of ground cloves (optional, but adds depth)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• A small handful of raisins or sultanas (optional, for added sweetness)
• 100 ml water or vegetable stock (if needed for extra moisture)

Equipment Needed

• A large, heavy-based saucepan or a wide, shallow pan with a lid
• A sharp knife for chopping the cabbage, apple, and onion
• A chopping board
• A wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
• Measuring spoons
• A grater (for the apple, if you prefer grated rather than chopped)

How To Make Jamie Oliver’s Braised Red Cabbage?

1. Prepare the ingredients: Begin by shredding or finely slicing the red cabbage. Peel and core the apple, then chop it into small chunks or grate it. Thinly slice the onion.
2. Cook the base: Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan or deep skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced onions and sauté for 5-7 minutes until soft and translucent, stirring occasionally to avoid burning.
3. Add the cabbage: Once the onions are soft, add the shredded cabbage to the pan. Stir well to coat the cabbage in the oil and onions. Let it cook for a few minutes until the cabbage starts to wilt.
4. Incorporate the apple and seasonings: Add the chopped or grated apple, sugar, vinegar, cinnamon, cloves, and bay leaf. Stir everything together to combine the flavors, and let the cabbage soften slightly.
5. Simmer the cabbage: Pour in a small amount of water or vegetable stock to ensure there’s enough moisture for braising. Cover the pan with a lid and reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer gently for about 45 minutes to 1 hour, stirring occasionally. The cabbage should become tender, and the flavors should meld together.
6. Finish and serve: Taste the cabbage and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or more vinegar, depending on your flavor preference. If you’re using raisins or sultanas, stir them in during the last 10 minutes of cooking for an added burst of sweetness.

Expert Tips

• Balancing the flavors: Jamie Oliver’s Braised Red Cabbage benefits from the right balance of sweetness and acidity. If you find the dish too sweet, add a little more vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice to balance the flavors.
• Make ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors will continue to develop as it sits, and reheating it brings back that wonderful richness.
• Variety: Feel free to play with the spices! While cinnamon and cloves are traditional, you can experiment with a pinch of nutmeg or even star anise for a more exotic twist.
• Texture: If you prefer your cabbage to retain more texture, reduce the cooking time slightly, or add less liquid for a firmer bite.

Jamie Oliver’s Braised Red Cabbage is a fantastic side dish that delivers depth of flavor and a pop of color to any meal. Whether you serve it with a Sunday roast, holiday feast, or as a lighter accompaniment to grilled meats, it’s sure to impress your guests and bring warmth to the table. With a few simple ingredients and easy steps, this dish will become a go-to favorite for family gatherings or cozy dinners.

Easy Recipe Variations For Jamie Oliver’s Braised Red Cabbage

Jamie Oliver’s braised red cabbage recipe is a classic, known for its delicious balance of sweet, sour, and savory flavors. The base recipe itself calls for red cabbage, apples, vinegar, sugar, and a few seasonings, but there are plenty of easy variations you can try depending on what you have on hand or what flavors you want to highlight.

1. Spicy Kick with Chili Flakes: If you enjoy a little heat in your dishes, try adding some dried chili flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the braise. The sweetness of the apples and the tanginess of the vinegar will balance out the spiciness, giving the dish a bold flavor profile.
2. Herb Infusion: To bring a fresh, aromatic twist to your cabbage, you can add some fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves. These herbs will infuse their fragrance into the cabbage while it braises, offering a new layer of flavor.
3. Honey and Cinnamon: For a deeper, richer sweetness, substitute the sugar with honey and add a pinch of cinnamon. This variation will give the cabbage a warmer, more comforting flavor, which works wonderfully in the fall and winter months.
4. Orange Zest and Juice: For a citrusy twist, you can add a little orange zest and a squeeze of orange juice to the braise. This not only brightens up the dish but also adds a subtle aromatic layer to complement the apple and vinegar.
5. Wine or Beer Braise: Rather than using water or stock as the braising liquid, you could experiment with wine or beer. Red wine will enhance the savory depth of the cabbage, while a light beer (such as a pale ale) can add a touch of bitterness that pairs well with the sweetness of the cabbage.
6. Add Bacon or Sausage: To make your braised cabbage heartier, you could incorporate some cooked bacon or sausage into the dish. The smoky, savory flavor of the meat will add richness and make the cabbage a more substantial meal.
7. Cranberries or Pomegranate: For a burst of tartness and a pop of color, adding fresh cranberries or pomegranate seeds near the end of cooking will enhance the dish with seasonal flair. The tangy-sweet fruit complements the cabbage beautifully.
8. Vegan Variation: If you’re looking to keep it plant-based, consider using coconut sugar instead of regular sugar and swap out any butter or animal-based fat for olive oil. You could also add a splash of vegetable broth to make the dish more robust.

These variations allow for customization to match different seasons or dietary needs. Each tweak can bring a whole new experience to this delicious side dish.

Best Practices To Store Leftovers

Leftover braised red cabbage can be just as delicious the next day, but proper storage ensures it retains its flavor and texture. Here’s how you can store your leftovers for the best results:

1. Cool Down Before Storing: Allow the braised red cabbage to cool to room temperature before storing. Placing hot food straight into the fridge can raise the temperature inside your refrigerator, which may encourage bacteria growth.
2. Use Airtight Containers: Transfer the cooled cabbage into an airtight container to minimize exposure to air, which can dry out the dish or lead to flavor loss. A tightly sealed container also helps prevent any odor from escaping and affecting other items in your fridge.
3. Refrigeration: Braised red cabbage will keep for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Be sure to check the cabbage before reheating it to ensure it hasn’t spoiled. If you’re unsure, give it a sniff and check for any visible mold.
4. Freezing: If you have a large batch of leftovers, you can freeze braised red cabbage. Divide it into smaller portions and store in freezer-safe bags or containers. When freezing, ensure that the cabbage is fully cooled and try to remove as much air as possible from the storage bags to avoid freezer burn. Frozen braised cabbage can last for up to 3 months.
5. Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheat them gently. The best way to do so is on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it’s a little dry after being stored, you can add a small splash of water, vinegar, or apple juice to bring back some of the moisture. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the microwave, but be sure to cover the dish to keep it from drying out.
6. Adding Freshness: If reheating leftovers, consider adding a fresh ingredient like chopped parsley, a squeeze of lemon juice, or a drizzle of olive oil to brighten up the flavors and give it a freshly-made feel.

What Goes Well With Braised Red Cabbage?

Braised red cabbage is a versatile side dish that pairs wonderfully with a variety of main dishes, balancing rich flavors with its sweet, tangy, and savory notes. Here are some perfect pairings:

1. Roast Meats: The classic pairing for braised red cabbage is roast meats, particularly roast pork, duck, or chicken. The cabbage’s acidity helps cut through the richness of the meats, while the sweetness complements the savory flavor.
2. Sausages: Whether it’s bratwurst, kielbasa, or traditional pork sausages, braised red cabbage is a natural match. The crispiness of grilled sausages contrasts nicely with the tender cabbage.
3. Mashed Potatoes or Potato Dumplings: Braised red cabbage can be served alongside mashed potatoes or potato dumplings. The richness of the potatoes balances the tartness of the cabbage, making for a comforting meal.
4. Grilled Fish: For a lighter option, braised red cabbage pairs beautifully with grilled fish like salmon or trout. The tangy cabbage cuts through the fattiness of the fish, providing a refreshing contrast.
5. Vegetarian Dishes: If you’re looking for a vegetarian meal, braised red cabbage can complement dishes like lentil stew, veggie burgers, or even a hearty quinoa salad. The cabbage’s acidity and sweetness work well with earthy, savory flavors from plant-based proteins.
6. Rice or Couscous: Braised red cabbage can also be served over rice or couscous for a simple yet flavorful meal. The cabbage can act as both a side and a topping, adding complexity and vibrancy to the dish.
7. Apple or Pear: Since braised red cabbage contains apples, it pairs beautifully with fruit-based salads or desserts that feature apples or pears, bringing out the natural sweetness in both the cabbage and the fruit.

Conclusion

Braised red cabbage is an incredibly versatile and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a variety of meals. Whether you stick to Jamie Oliver’s traditional recipe or experiment with variations, this dish adds a wonderful balance of tangy sweetness to any table.

Storing leftovers is easy, and with a little creativity, it can be enjoyed in different ways. The cabbage pairs well with everything from roast meats to vegetarian options, making it a go-to side for a wide range of occasions. Enjoy this classic dish with your favorite mains, and you’ll have a delicious, vibrant meal every time!.

FAQs

What Are The Main Ingredients In Jamie Oliver’s Braised Red Cabbage Recipe?

The main ingredients for Jamie Oliver’s braised red cabbage include red cabbage, onions, apples, olive oil, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar, and spices such as cinnamon and cloves.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Braised Red Cabbage Recipe Ahead Of Time?

Yes, you can prepare Jamie Oliver’s braised red cabbage in advance. It stores well in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, and the flavors will develop even further. Simply reheat it before serving.

How Long Does It Take To Cook Jamie Oliver’s Braised Red Cabbage?

Jamie Oliver’s braised red cabbage recipe typically takes about 1 hour to cook. This includes simmering the cabbage until it becomes tender and flavorful.

Can I Substitute The Sugar In Jamie Oliver’s Braised Red Cabbage Recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the brown sugar with other sweeteners like honey or maple syrup, depending on your preference or dietary needs.

Can I Make Jamie Oliver’s Braised Red Cabbage Recipe Vegan?

Yes, Jamie Oliver’s braised red cabbage recipe is naturally vegan, as it uses olive oil and does not include any animal-based ingredients. Just be sure to check that your balsamic vinegar is vegan-friendly.

What Type Of Vinegar Is Used In Jamie Oliver’s Braised Red Cabbage Recipe?

The recipe calls for balsamic vinegar, which adds a rich, tangy flavor to balance the sweetness of the apples and sugar.

Is Jamie Oliver’s Braised Red Cabbage Recipe Suitable For A Gluten-free Diet?

Yes, Jamie Oliver’s braised red cabbage recipe is naturally gluten-free. There are no ingredients in the recipe that contain gluten, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

What Is The Best Way To Serve Jamie Oliver’s Braised Red Cabbage?

Jamie Oliver’s braised red cabbage pairs well with roasted meats, such as pork or turkey, and works wonderfully as a side dish for holiday meals like Christmas or Thanksgiving.

Can I Freeze Jamie Oliver’s Braised Red Cabbage?

Yes, you can freeze Jamie Oliver’s braised red cabbage for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container or freezer bag. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Can I Adjust The Seasoning In Jamie Oliver’s Braised Red Cabbage Recipe?

Yes, you can adjust the seasoning to your liking. If you prefer a sweeter dish, you can add more sugar or apples, or if you like more spice, you can increase the amount of cinnamon or cloves.