We’ve always been fans of Houston’s Red Cabbage Recipe, a vibrant side dish that adds a pop of color and tangy crunch to any table. Drawing from the beloved Houston’s restaurant roots, it showcases fresh ingredients and bold flavors that make it a standout favorite.
This easy-to-make recipe lets us recreate that restaurant magic at home, blending sweet and savory notes for a crowd-pleasing result. We’re excited to guide you through it, proving that simple dishes can deliver big on taste.
Ingredients
In our Houston’s Red Cabbage Recipe, we focus on fresh, vibrant ingredients that deliver bold flavors and a restaurant-quality side dish. To recreate this tangy delight at home, gather these key components—listed in the order we use them during preparation—with precise measurements and any necessary prep notes for accuracy.
- Red cabbage: 1 medium head (about 2 pounds), shredded or thinly sliced to ensure even cooking and a crisp texture.
- Onion: 1 large yellow onion, finely chopped to build a flavorful base for sautéing.
- Apple: 2 medium Granny Smith apples, cored and thinly sliced for their tartness that balances the sweetness.
- Apple cider vinegar: 1/2 cup, added for its sharp acidity that enhances the dish’s signature tang.
- Sugar: 1/4 cup granulated sugar, used to caramelize and mellow the flavors—adjust to taste if you prefer a less sweet profile.
- Spices: 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon and 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves, combined for warmth and depth; grind fresh if possible for optimal aroma.
- Butter: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted to start the cooking process and add richness.
- Salt and pepper: 1 teaspoon salt and 1/2 teaspoon black pepper, seasoned to taste at the end for a well-rounded finish.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our fresh ingredients like red cabbage, yellow onion, and Granny Smith apples, let’s guide you through preparing and cooking this vibrant Houston’s Red Cabbage Recipe to capture its tangy sweetness and bold flavors in your own kitchen.
Prep
Before we start cooking, we’ll prepare our ingredients to ensure everything is ready for a seamless process. Follow these steps to chop and measure for optimal results:
- Shred the cabbage: Take 1 medium head of red cabbage and remove the outer leaves. Cut it in half, then slice each half into thin shreds using a sharp knife or mandoline. This yields about 8 cups of shredded cabbage, which will soften beautifully and turn a vivid purple hue as it cooks.
- Slice the onion: Peel 1 large yellow onion and cut it into thin, even slices. Aim for uniform pieces to promote even caramelization, enhancing the dish’s savory depth.
- Chop the apples: Core and dice 2 Granny Smith apples into small, bite-sized pieces. Their tart crunch will add a refreshing contrast that balances the sweetness in our final dish.
- Measure and mix dry ingredients: In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup of granulated sugar with 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon and 1/4 teaspoon of ground cloves. Stir until well blended, creating a fragrant spice blend that infuses warmth into Houston’s Red Cabbage Recipe.
Cook
With our ingredients prepped, we’ll now cook the dish to develop its rich, tangy flavors through sautéing and simmering. Use a large skillet or Dutch oven for even heat distribution.
- Melt the butter: Place a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter. Let it melt and foam slightly, releasing a nutty aroma that sets the base for our savory-sweet profile.
- Sauté the onion: Add the sliced yellow onion to the melted butter and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it turns golden and soft. This step builds a caramelized foundation that enhances the overall tanginess of the cabbage.
- Incorporate the cabbage and apples: Stir in the shredded red cabbage and chopped Granny Smith apples. Cook for 3-4 minutes, allowing the cabbage to wilt and release its natural juices, filling your kitchen with a fresh, earthy scent.
- Add liquids and spices: Pour in 1/2 cup of apple cider vinegar and sprinkle the sugar-spice mixture over the top. Season with 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper to taste. Stir everything together to coat evenly, creating a symphony of sweet, sour, and spicy notes.
- Simmer to perfection: Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the mixture simmer for 20-25 minutes. Stir occasionally until the cabbage is tender yet slightly crisp, absorbing the flavors to deliver a glossy, vibrant dish that’s irresistibly flavorful.
Conclusion
We’ve loved sharing this vibrant take on Houston’s Red Cabbage Recipe with you. It’s a straightforward way to add bold flavors that elevate any table.
We’re confident it’ll become a go-to favorite in your kitchen too so whip it up and enjoy the tangy goodness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Houston’s Red Cabbage Recipe?
Houston’s Red Cabbage Recipe is a vibrant, tangy side dish inspired by the popular restaurant. It features fresh red cabbage, apples, and onions cooked with bold flavors like apple cider vinegar, sugar, and spices. This easy recipe lets you recreate a restaurant favorite at home, offering a delicious and impressive dish that’s simple to make.
What ingredients are needed for the recipe?
You’ll need 1 medium head of red cabbage, 1 large yellow onion, 2 Granny Smith apples, 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar, 1/4 cup granulated sugar, ground cinnamon and cloves, 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, and salt and pepper. These fresh ingredients combine to create a flavorful, tangy side dish with bold, restaurant-quality taste.
How do I prepare Houston’s Red Cabbage Recipe?
Start by shredding the cabbage, slicing the onion, and chopping the apples. Melt butter in a pan, sauté the onions, add cabbage and apples, then mix in vinegar, sugar, and spices. Simmer until tender and glossy. The whole process takes about 45 minutes and results in a colorful, flavorful dish perfect for any meal.
Can I substitute ingredients in the recipe?
Yes, you can swap Granny Smith apples for other tart varieties, or use red onion instead of yellow for a milder flavor. For a vegan version, replace butter with oil. Keep the core ingredients like red cabbage and apple cider vinegar for the best taste, but adjustments might slightly alter the tanginess.
How long does it take to make this red cabbage dish?
Prep time is about 15 minutes, and cooking takes 30 minutes of simmering. The total time is roughly 45 minutes, making it a quick side dish for weeknights. It’s simple enough for beginners and delivers impressive results with minimal effort.
Is Houston’s Red Cabbage Recipe healthy?
Yes, it’s nutritious! Red cabbage provides vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, while apples add natural sweetness and more fiber. With low calories and no added fats beyond butter, it’s a healthy side option, but watch sugar intake if monitoring carbs. Enjoy it as part of a balanced meal.