I’ll never forget the first time I tasted my grandma’s famous Apple Cream Braised Cabbage. It was a chilly autumn evening, and the aroma of the simmering cabbage and apples filled the air, making my mouth water in anticipation. As I took that first bite, the creamy, savory-sweet flavors danced on my tongue, and I knew I was in for a real treat. From that moment on, this dish became a staple in our family, a comforting and satisfying meal that we’d turn to time and time again.
Why This Apple Cream Braised Cabbage Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Apple Cream Braised Cabbage
This Apple Cream Braised Cabbage recipe is truly special because it combines the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The crisp-tender cabbage is perfectly complemented by the sweet, juicy apples and the rich, creamy sauce. But the real secret lies in the slow-braising method, which allows the ingredients to meld together, creating a depth of flavor that’s simply irresistible. And the best part? This recipe yields 6 delicious servings, so you can enjoy it as a main course or as a satisfying side dish.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this Apple Cream Braised Cabbage, you’ll need:
- 1 medium head of green cabbage, shredded (about 6 cups)
- 2 large Honeycrisp apples, peeled, cored, and diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
These simple, yet flavorful ingredients come together to create a truly spectacular dish that’s sure to wow your family and friends.
Step-by-Step Apple Cream Braised Cabbage Instructions
Preparing Your Apple Cream Braised Cabbage
This recipe takes 30 minutes total – 10 minutes for prep and 20 minutes for cooking. You’ll need a large skillet or Dutch oven to make this dish. Let’s get started!
1- Begin by shredding the cabbage, peeling, coring, and dicing the apples, and dicing the onion. This should take about 10 minutes.
2- In the skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the shredded cabbage, diced apples, and onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 5 minutes until the vegetables are starting to soften.
3- Pour in the heavy cream, chicken or vegetable broth, apple cider vinegar, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and the sauce has thickened.
4- Keep an eye on the cabbage, looking for it to become crisp-tender and the apples to be softened but still holding their shape.
5- Once the cabbage is cooked to your liking, give the dish a final stir to incorporate all the flavors.
6- Serve hot, spooning the Apple Cream Braised Cabbage into bowls and enjoying every delicious bite.
Pro Tips for Success
To ensure your Apple Cream Braised Cabbage turns out perfectly every time, here are a few pro tips:
- Be sure to use crisp, tart apples like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith for the best flavor and texture.
- Don’t overcook the cabbage – you want it to be tender but still have a bit of bite.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of sugar if needed.
- For a thicker sauce, let the dish simmer for a few extra minutes.
Serving and Storing Your Apple Cream Braised Cabbage
Perfect Pairings for Apple Cream Braised Cabbage
This Apple Cream Braised Cabbage pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes. Serve it as a main course with roasted potatoes or a simple green salad for a satisfying and well-balanced meal. It also makes a wonderful side dish, complementing roasted chicken, pork chops, or even grilled fish. And don’t forget the beverages – a crisp white wine or a hot apple cider would be the perfect accompaniment to this cozy, comforting dish. Remember, this recipe yields 6 servings, with each serving being 1 cup.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
Leftovers of this Apple Cream Braised Cabbage can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place the desired portion in a skillet or microwave-safe dish and warm it through. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat on the stovetop or in the oven until hot and bubbly.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Apple Cream Braised Cabbage
Creative Apple Cream Braised Cabbage Variations
While this classic Apple Cream Braised Cabbage recipe is already delicious as is, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it. Try adding diced bacon or crumbled sausage for a heartier, more savory version. You could also swap in different types of apples, such as Gala or Fuji, for a slightly sweeter flavor profile. For a bit of crunch, top the finished dish with toasted breadcrumbs or chopped pecans.
Making Apple Cream Braised Cabbage Diet-Friendly
To make this recipe more diet-friendly, you can use low-fat or non-dairy milk in place of the heavy cream. For a vegan or dairy-free version, simply substitute the butter with olive oil or your favorite plant-based butter, and use a dairy-free milk alternative like unsweetened almond or oat milk. For a gluten-free option, ensure that your Dijon mustard is gluten-free, and serve the cabbage over gluten-free grains or with gluten-free bread.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a different type of apple in this recipe?
A: Absolutely! While Honeycrisp apples are the recommended choice for their balance of sweetness and tartness, you can experiment with other varieties like Gala, Fuji, or Granny Smith. Just keep in mind that the flavor and texture of the final dish may vary slightly.
Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This recipe makes exactly 6 servings, with each serving being 1 cup.
Q: Can I make this dish in advance?
A: Yes, this Apple Cream Braised Cabbage can be made ahead of time. Simply prepare the dish as directed, let it cool, and then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When ready to serve, reheat it on the stovetop or in the oven until hot and bubbly.
Q: My cabbage isn’t getting as tender as I’d like. What can I do?
A: If your cabbage isn’t reaching the desired level of tenderness, try simmering it for a few extra minutes. You can also try covering the skillet with a lid to help the cabbage steam and soften more quickly.
Apple Cream Braised Cabbage
- Total Time: 30
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
Indulge in the rich, creamy comfort of Apple Cream Braised Cabbage. This easy-to-make recipe delivers a delightful balance of sweet and savory flavors, making it the perfect cozy dinner.
Ingredients
– 1 medium head green cabbage, thinly sliced
– 2 Granny Smith apples, peeled, cored, and diced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1 teaspoon onion powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
1. – Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. – Add the sliced cabbage and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until starting to soften.
3. – Stir in the diced apples and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
4. – Pour in the heavy cream and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
5. – Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is very tender and the sauce has thickened.
6. – Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. – Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
This recipe can easily be doubled to feed a crowd. For a variation, try using a combination of green and red cabbage. Leftovers reheat well and make a great side dish or light main course.
- Prep Time: 10
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Comfort Food
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
This Apple Cream Braised Cabbage is a true comfort food classic that’s sure to become a new family favorite. With its perfect balance of flavors, simple preparation, and impressive yield of 6 delicious servings, it’s a dish that’s both satisfying and practical. So, what are you waiting for? Give this recipe a try and get ready to savor every cozy, creamy bite. Don’t forget to let me know what you think in the comments below!
