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Roasted Red Cabbage Recipe


  • Author: Sophia

Ingredients

Scale

  • The Star of the Show: Red Cabbage

    • 1 medium Red Cabbage (about 23 pounds): Choose a firm, heavy red cabbage head. Look for one that feels solid and compact, without any soft spots or blemishes. A medium-sized cabbage is perfect for serving 4-6 people as a side dish.

  • For Flavor and Caramelization: The Roasting Essentials

    • 3 tablespoons Olive Oil: Olive oil is essential for roasting vegetables. It helps them caramelize beautifully, adds flavor, and prevents them from drying out. Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its richer flavor, but regular olive oil works well too. You can also use avocado oil or another high-heat cooking oil.
    • 2 tablespoons Balsamic Vinegar: Balsamic vinegar is the secret ingredient that elevates roasted red cabbage to another level. It adds a touch of sweetness and acidity that perfectly complements the cabbage’s natural flavors and enhances the caramelization process. Use a good quality balsamic vinegar for the best results.
    • 1 tablespoon Brown Sugar or Maple Syrup (optional): While the balsamic vinegar adds sweetness, a touch of brown sugar or maple syrup can further enhance the caramelized notes and create a more pronounced sweet and savory flavor profile. This is optional, especially if you prefer a less sweet dish, but it’s highly recommended for those who love a balance of sweet and savory.
    • 1 teaspoon Salt: Salt is crucial for bringing out the flavors of the cabbage and other ingredients. Use kosher salt or sea salt.
    • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper adds a subtle warmth and depth of flavor.

  • Optional Enhancements (For Extra Flavor Depth):

    • 1 teaspoon Caraway Seeds (optional): Caraway seeds are a classic pairing with cabbage, adding a distinctive earthy, slightly licorice-like flavor. If you enjoy caraway, a teaspoon sprinkled over the cabbage before roasting adds a lovely aromatic dimension.
    • 1 clove Garlic, minced (optional): Garlic adds a pungent and savory note. Mince a clove of garlic and toss it with the cabbage before roasting for an extra layer of flavor.
    • 1/2 teaspoon Dried Thyme or Rosemary (optional): Dried herbs like thyme or rosemary can add an herbaceous and aromatic touch. Sprinkle a pinch over the cabbage before roasting for a more complex flavor profile.
    • Pinch of Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For a subtle hint of heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the cabbage before roasting.
    • Orange Zest (optional): Orange zest adds a bright, citrusy note that complements the sweetness of the cabbage and balsamic vinegar. Grate the zest of half an orange and toss it with the cabbage before roasting for a refreshing twist.


Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prep Cabbage: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup (optional, but recommended). Remove the outer leaves of the red cabbage if they are wilted or damaged. Cut the cabbage in half through the core. Then, cut each half into wedges, about ½ to ¾ inch thick. You can also shred the cabbage if you prefer, but wedges roast beautifully and offer a slightly different texture.
  2. Toss with Oil and Seasonings: In a large bowl, toss the red cabbage wedges with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, brown sugar or maple syrup (if using), salt, and black pepper. If using any optional additions like caraway seeds, minced garlic, dried herbs, or red pepper flakes, add them now and toss to combine. Ensure that the cabbage wedges are evenly coated with the oil and seasonings. This even coating is crucial for proper caramelization and flavor development.
  3. Arrange on Baking Sheet: Arrange the cabbage wedges in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding the baking sheet, as this can steam the cabbage instead of roasting it. If necessary, use two baking sheets or roast in batches. Arranging in a single layer allows for even roasting and browning.
  4. Roast to Tender and Caramelized: Roast in the preheated oven for 30-40 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender and nicely caramelized around the edges. Flip the cabbage wedges halfway through the roasting time, after about 20 minutes, to ensure even cooking and browning on both sides. The roasting time may vary depending on the thickness of your cabbage wedges and your oven. The cabbage is done when it’s easily pierced with a fork and has developed slightly crispy, caramelized edges.
  5. Taste and Adjust Seasoning (Optional): Once roasted, remove the baking sheet from the oven. Taste a piece of cabbage and adjust seasoning if needed. You may want to add a pinch more salt, pepper, or a drizzle of extra balsamic vinegar to enhance the flavors further.
  6. Serve and Enjoy! Serve the Roasted Red Cabbage warm as a delicious and vibrant side dish. It pairs beautifully with a wide variety of main courses. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of extra caraway seeds, if desired, for added visual appeal.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: one normal portion
  • Calories: 100-150
  • Sugar: 3-5grams
  • Fat: 7-10 grams
  • Saturated Fat: 1 gram
  • Carbohydrates: 10-15 grams
  • Fiber: 3-4 grams
  • Protein: 1-2 grams