Hungarian-style braised cabbage and apples

Hungarian-style braised cabbage and apples combines the sweet taste of apples with tender cabbage, seasoned with cinnamon and vinegar. This comforting dish is easy to prepare, making it ideal for any meal.

17 Dec 2025
Cook time 20 min
Prep time 20 min

Ingredients:

2 tbsp vegetable oil
1.50 cups onion
1/4 tsp cinnamon
1 dash black pepper
1/2 tsp salt
1 cup apple
4 cups cabbage
1/4 cup vinegar
2 tbsp brown sugar
Hungarian-style braised cabbage and apples

Hungarian-style braised cabbage and apples is a delicious and nutritious dish that brings together the sweet and savory flavors of apples, cabbage, and seasonings. This dish is a beautiful blend of traditional Hungarian cooking, making it perfect for a comforting meal that's both rich in flavor and easy to prepare.

Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients:
- Finely chop the onions.
- Core, peel, and thinly slice the apples.
- Thinly slice the cabbage.
2. Heat the Oil:
- In a large skillet or pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat until shimmering.
3. Cook the Onions:
- Add the chopped onions to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until they become soft and translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add Seasonings:
- Sprinkle in the ground cinnamon, a dash of black pepper, and salt. Stir well to combine and let the spices become fragrant, cooking for another minute.
5. Add Apples:
- Add the thinly sliced apples to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.
6. Add Cabbage:
- Gradually add the thinly sliced cabbage to the skillet, stirring well to incorporate it with the onions and apples.
7. Mix in Vinegar and Sugar:
- Pour in the vinegar and sprinkle the brown sugar over the cabbage mixture. Stir everything together until well combined.
8. Simmer:
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the mixture simmer for about 30-35 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cabbage should become tender, and the flavors should meld together.
9. Adjust Seasonings:
- Taste and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or black pepper if desired.
10. Serve:
- Once the cabbage and apples are tender and flavorful, remove from heat. Serve warm as a side dish, or as a main dish with some crusty bread or over mashed potatoes.

Enjoy your Hungarian-style braised cabbage and apples as a side dish or light main course. The combination of sweet apples, tangy vinegar, and savory cabbage creates a dish that’s both satisfying and wholesome. It pairs well with a variety of protein dishes or can be eaten on its own for a delightful, healthy meal.

Hungarian-style braised cabbage and apples FAQ:

What is the recommended cooking time for the cabbage and apples?

The recommended cooking time for simmering the cabbage and apples is about 30-35 minutes on low heat. This allows the cabbage to become tender and the flavors to meld together.

What type of apples work best in this recipe?

Sweet and tart apples, such as Granny Smith or Honeycrisp, work best in this recipe as they balance the flavors with the savory cabbage and spices.

How do I store leftovers of braised cabbage and apples?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave before serving.

Can I substitute the vinegar in this recipe?

Yes, you can substitute the vinegar with lemon juice or apple cider vinegar for a similar tangy flavor. Adjust the quantity to taste.

What should I do if the cabbage is still crunchy after simmering?

If the cabbage is still crunchy after the initial 30-35 minutes of simmering, cover and cook for an additional 5-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired tenderness.

Tips:

- Use a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven for even cooking and to prevent burning.

- Finely slice the cabbage and apples for uniform cooking and better texture.

- Adjust the amount of brown sugar and vinegar to taste for your preferred balance of sweetness and acidity.

- Add a bay leaf or a few caraway seeds for an extra dimension of flavor.

- For a heartier version, consider adding some sliced sausages or cooked bacon.

Nutrition per serving

6 Servings
Calories 50kcal
Protein 1.05g
Carbohydrates 11g
Fiber 2.53g
Sugar 8g
Fat 4.77g

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