Go Back
Delia Smith Traditional Braised Red Cabbage with Apples Recipe

Delia Smith Traditional Braised Red Cabbage with Apples Recipe

This is a slow-cooked side dish made from shredded red cabbage, cooking apples, onions, vinegar, brown sugar, and warm spices. It’s gently braised until tender and flavorful, producing a sweet and tangy accompaniment perfect for roasts and festive meals.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours 30 minutes
Total Time 2 hours 50 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: British
Calories: 120
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 small red cabbage about 750g, finely shredded
  • 450 g cooking apples peeled, cored, and chopped
  • 1 large onion finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar or balsamic vinegar
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
  • ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 25 g butter

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 150°C (300°F).
  2. In a large ovenproof dish with a lid, layer the cabbage, apple, and onion.
  3. Between each layer, sprinkle some of the sugar, spices, salt, and pepper.
  4. Once all the layers are done, pour over the vinegar and dot the top with butter.
  5. Cover the dish tightly with a lid or foil.
  6. Bake for 2 to 2.5 hours, stirring once or twice during the cooking process.
  7. The cabbage should be tender, slightly caramelized, and deeply flavorful by the end.
  8. Serve hot or warm, depending on your preference.

Notes

My tips to make the best Delia Smith Traditional Braised Red Cabbage with Apples
Use a sharp knife or mandolin to shred the cabbage finely and evenly.
Let the flavors mingle overnight for an even deeper taste.
Adjust the sweetness by choosing sweeter or tarter apples depending on your preference.
Don’t skip the butter. It gives the dish a rich, velvety finish.
Stir gently to avoid breaking the cabbage too much.

Nutritional value

Per serving (based on 6 servings):
  • Calories: 120 kcal
  • Carbohydrates: 22g
  • Sugars: 14g
  • Fat: 3g
  • Protein: 1g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Sodium: Low to moderate depending on salt added