Get ready to transport your taste buds to the rustic kitchens of Croatia with this incredible red cabbage stew that's about to become your new comfort food obsession! This isn't just another vegetable dish – it's a symphony of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors that will make you fall in love with Croatian cuisine. Imagine a vibrant, rich stew that combines the earthy depth of red cabbage with the subtle sweetness of apples, creating a dish that's both nutritious and incredibly delicious. Whether you're a seasoned home cook or a curious food adventurer, this recipe promises to bring a touch of Croatian warmth to your dining table.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Croatian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 small head of red cabbage, shredded
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 apples, peeled and diced
- 2 tablespoons vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare your ingredients by thoroughly washing the red cabbage, peeling and chopping the onion, and peeling and dicing the apples into small, uniform cubes.
- Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Add the shredded red cabbage to the pot and stir to combine with the onions. Cook for about 5-6 minutes, allowing the cabbage to start softening and releasing its natural moisture.
- Incorporate the diced apples into the cabbage mixture, stirring gently to distribute evenly throughout the pot.
- Pour in the vinegar and sprinkle sugar over the cabbage mixture. This will help balance the flavors and create a slightly sweet and tangy profile typical of Croatian stews.
- Season the stew with salt and pepper to taste. Stir all ingredients thoroughly to ensure even seasoning.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and let the stew simmer for approximately 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
- Check the cabbage for tenderness. The stew is ready when the cabbage is soft but still retains a slight bite, and the apples have broken down slightly to create a rich, thick consistency.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or a touch more vinegar to enhance the flavor profile.
- Remove from heat and let the stew rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve hot as a side dish or light main course, accompanied by crusty bread or traditional Croatian side dishes.
Tips
- Choose a fresh, firm red cabbage for the best texture and flavor. The deeper the color, the more nutritious and flavorful your stew will be.
- Cut your ingredients uniformly to ensure even cooking. Consistent-sized apple and cabbage pieces will help create a more balanced dish.
- Don't rush the caramelization of onions – this step builds a flavor foundation for your entire stew.
- Use a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to prevent burning and ensure even heat distribution.
- Adjust the vinegar and sugar to your taste. Some prefer a more tangy profile, while others might enjoy a slightly sweeter version.
- Let the stew rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to meld and develop more depth.
- This stew tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance for meal prep or entertaining.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 22g
Protein: 2g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 0mg
