Mary Berry’s Braised Red Cabbage is a delightful and colorful dish that brings warmth and richness to any meal. Known for its vibrant hue and a perfect mix of sweet and tangy flavors, this recipe turns the humble red cabbage into a star side dish. Whether it’s accompanying a roast during the holiday season or adding a splash of color to a weeknight dinner, this braised cabbage is versatile and universally appealing.
In this article, we will show you how to make Mary Berry’s braised red cabbage recipe in a few easy steps.
What is Mary Berry Braised Red Cabbage?
Mary Berry Braised Red Cabbage is a delicious side dish made with red cabbage, cider, and redcurrant jelly. It is cooked slowly in the oven until the cabbage is soft and juicy, and the sauce is thick and syrupy. It is a traditional dish for Christmas, but it can also be enjoyed any time of the year.
Serving around 6-8 people, this recipe can be prepared in approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. It’s not just about the end result; the process of slow-cooking the cabbage brings out deep, complex flavors that are worth the wait.
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Why You Love this Recipe
This recipe is a standout for several reasons:
- Ease of Preparation: It’s easy to make, requiring just a few basic ingredients and straightforward steps.
- Flavorful: The dish is full of sweet and tangy flavors that beautifully complement various roast meats.
- Customizable: You can tailor the recipe to your liking with different spices, herbs, nuts, or fruits.
- Health Benefits: Red cabbage is rich in essential nutrients like vitamin C, antioxidants, and fiber.
- Convenience: The dish is perfect for preparing ahead of time and is freezer-friendly, making it a practical option for busy schedules.
Ingredients Needed to Make Mary Berry Braised Red Cabbage
To make this recipe, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 knobs of butter
- 1 onion, sliced
- 1kg (2lb 3oz) red cabbage, finely shredded
- 250ml (10fl oz) cider
- 4 tbsp redcurrant jelly
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
You can use any type of cider that you like, such as apple, pear, or berry. You can also substitute it with red wine, apple juice, or cranberry juice. Redcurrant jelly is a sweet and tangy preserve that adds a nice contrast to the cabbage.
Instructions to Make Mary Berry Braised Red Cabbage
To make this recipe, follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven and Prepare the Cabbage
- Preheat the oven to 160°C/140°C fan/Gas 3.
- Wash and dry the red cabbage, and remove any tough outer leaves.
- Cut the cabbage in half, and remove the core with a sharp knife.
- Finely shred the cabbage, using a mandoline, a food processor, or a knife.
- Peel and slice the onion, and set aside.
Step 2: Fry the Onion and Cabbage
- Heat the oil and a knob of the butter in a deep ovenproof saucepan over medium-high heat.
- Add the onion and cabbage and fry for 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften and wilt.
- You may need to do this in batches, depending on the size of your pan.
Step 3: Add the Cider and Redcurrant Jelly
- Add the cider and redcurrant jelly, and season with salt and pepper.
- Bring to a boil and boil for a few minutes, until the jelly dissolves and the liquid reduces slightly.
- You can use any type of cider that you like, such as apple, pear, or berry. You can also substitute it with red wine, apple juice, or cranberry juice.
- Redcurrant jelly is a sweet and tangy preserve that adds a nice contrast to the cabbage. You can find it in most supermarkets or online. You can also use cranberry sauce, blackcurrant jam, or honey instead.
Step 4: Braise the Cabbage in the Oven
- Cover the pan with a lid and place in the oven for 3–4 hours, until the cabbage is completely tender and juicy.
- Check and stir the mixture every hour or so, and add more liquid if it looks too dry.
- The longer you cook the cabbage, the more flavor it will develop. You can also cook it on the hob over low heat, but you will need to stir it more often and watch out for burning.
Step 5: Transfer the Cabbage and Reduce the Sauce
- Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cabbage to a warm serving dish, leaving the juices behind in the pan.
- Place the pan on the hob over high heat and reduce the liquid until it becomes thick and syrupy, stirring occasionally. This should take about 10 minutes.
- The sauce will add a glossy and rich finish to the cabbage, and enhance its flavor.
Step 6: Stir in the Butter and Serve
- Stir in the remaining butter, taste, and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Pour the sauce over the cabbage and serve hot or warm.
- You can garnish the dish with some chopped parsley if you like.
- Enjoy your Mary Berry Braised Red Cabbage with your favorite roast meat, potatoes, vegetables, or salad.
What Do I Serve With Mary Berry Braised Red Cabbage?
Mary Berry’s Braised Red Cabbage is versatile and pairs well with a range of dishes, such as:
- Meats: It goes well with roast turkey, ham, chicken, or beef, providing a flavorful counterpoint.
- Sides: Serve it alongside mashed potatoes, roasted vegetables, stuffing, or with gravy and bread sauce.
- Lighter Options: It’s also great with cheese, fresh bread, or as part of a salad for a lighter meal.
Pro Tips to Make Perfect Mary Berry Braised Red Cabbage
Here are some pro tips to make this dish even better:
- Cookware Choice: Opt for a versatile, deep ovenproof saucepan that can be used on the hob and in the oven. This not only saves on cleanup but ensures consistent cooking.
- Cabbage Preparation: Finely shred the cabbage for uniform cooking and a more delicate texture in every bite.
- Cooking Attention: Regularly check and stir the cabbage, roughly every hour, adding a bit more liquid if it appears too dry. This ensures the cabbage stays moist and flavorsome.
- Sauce Perfection: Simmer the sauce until it reaches a thick, syrupy consistency. This step is crucial for deepening the flavor and giving the dish an appealing glossy finish.
- Final Touch: Stir in a bit of butter before serving. This not only enriches the flavor but also adds a luxurious sheen to the dish.
Variations of Mary Berry Braised Red Cabbage
Personalize this classic dish with these flavorful additions:
- Spices: Introduce warmth and complexity with spices like cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, or bay leaves.
- Herbs: Fresh herbs such as parsley, thyme, or sage can add a fragrant dimension.
- Nuts: Incorporate a crunchy texture with toasted walnuts, almonds, or pecans.
- Fruits: Enhance the sweetness with dried fruits like raisins, cranberries, or cherries.
How do I store Mary Berry Braised Red Cabbage Leftovers?
To store the leftovers, follow these steps:
- Cooling: Allow the cabbage to cool completely to room temperature.
- Container: Transfer the cabbage to an airtight container, minimizing air exposure.
- Refrigeration or Freezing: Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Labeling: Mark the container with the dish’s name and date to keep track of freshness.
How do I reheat Mary Berry Braised Red Cabbage Leftovers?
To reheat the leftovers, follow these steps:
For the best results when reheating, follow these steps:
- Thawing: If frozen, defrost the cabbage in the refrigerator overnight.
- Oven Reheating: Preheat your oven to 180°C/160°C fan/Gas 4. Cover the cabbage with foil to retain moisture and heat it for 15-20 minutes, or until thoroughly warmed.
- Stovetop Alternative: Alternatively, reheat the cabbage in a pan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. This method works well for smaller quantities or for a quicker reheating process.
Nutrition value per serving (based on 6 servings):
- Calories: 143 kcal
- Fat: 5 g
- Carbohydrates: 21 g
- Fiber: 4 g
- Protein: 2 g
- Salt: 0.2 g
FAQs
Can I use green cabbage instead of red cabbage?
Yes, you can use green cabbage instead of red cabbage, but the color and flavor will be different. Green cabbage is milder and less sweet than red cabbage, and it will not have the same deep purple hue. You may need to adjust the amount of sugar and vinegar to balance the taste.
Can I use a different type of vinegar?
Yes, you can use a different type of vinegar, such as white wine vinegar, balsamic vinegar, or apple cider vinegar. Each vinegar will give a slightly different flavor and acidity to the dish. You may need to adjust the amount of sugar and vinegar to suit your preference.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer. To store it in the fridge, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To store it in the freezer, let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container and freeze it for up to 3 months. Label the container with the date and name of the dish.
How Can I Enhance the Flavor of the Dish Further?
To deepen the flavors, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a small amount of brown sugar during the cooking process. These ingredients can enrich the taste, adding a complex sweetness and acidity. Additionally, aromatic spices like allspice or star anise can introduce a unique and warm flavor.
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s braised red cabbage recipe is a simple and delicious way to cook this winter vegetable. It is easy to make, and it fills your kitchen with a wonderful aroma. It is also versatile, as you can customize it with different ingredients and serve it with different dishes. It is a great dish to make for Christmas, Thanksgiving, or any special occasion.
We hope you enjoyed this article and learned how to make Mary Berry’s braised red cabbage recipe. If you have any questions, comments, or suggestions, please let us know in the comments section below. We would love to hear from you.
Happy cooking!
