German Red Cabbage Salad Recipe – German Special

German Red Cabbage Salad is a vibrant, tangy dish that’s a staple in German cuisine. Known as Rotkohl, this salad combines the sweet and sour flavors of red cabbage with a mix of ingredients like apple, vinegar, and spices. It’s often served as a side dish to rich meats like roast pork or sausages. The salad’s crunchy texture and refreshing taste make it a perfect balance to heavier dishes, and its colorful appearance adds a delightful touch to any meal. Easy to prepare and full of flavor, German Red Cabbage Salad is a great addition to your meal!
- Prep Time10 min
- Perform Time1 hr 30 min
- Total Time1 hr 40 min
German Red Cabbage Salad Recipe Ingredients:
- 1 small head of red cabbage (about 4 cups shredded)
- 1 medium apple, peeled, cored, and chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely sliced
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon caraway seeds (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme (optional)
- 1/4 cup water
Prepare the Cabbage:
Shred the red cabbage finely using a sharp knife or a food processor.
Place the shredded cabbage in a large bowl.
Prepare the Apple and Onion:
Peel and chop the apple into small pieces.
Thinly slice the red onion. Add both to the bowl with the cabbage.
Make the Dressing:
In a small bowl, combine the apple cider vinegar, sugar, olive oil, salt, pepper, caraway seeds, and thyme (if using).
Whisk until the sugar is dissolved and the dressing is smooth.
Combine:
Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss everything together until the cabbage is well coated.
Let it Rest:
Add the water and mix again.
Let the salad sit for at least 30 minutes in the fridge to allow the flavors to meld together.
Serve:
After resting, give the salad a quick toss and serve chilled.
This salad pairs perfectly with roasted meats or sausages.
Recipe Notes:
Cabbage: Shred the red cabbage as finely as you can for a better texture in the salad.
Apple: Use a crisp, tart apple like a Granny Smith for a nice balance of flavor.
Dressing: The dressing should be tangy and sweet. Adjust sugar and vinegar to your taste if you prefer it sweeter or more sour.
Resting Time: Let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to develop.
Serving: Serve the salad chilled for the best taste. It’s a great side dish for meats like sausages or roast pork.