Mary Berry Red Cabbage Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a side dish that’s bursting with flavor, vibrant color, and a classic British flair, this Mary Berry Red Cabbage will absolutely win you over. Slowly braised with tart apples, warming spices, and just the right hint of vinegar, this dish is both a feast for the eyes and the palate. Whether you’re planning a cozy Sunday roast or need something special for the holidays, Mary Berry Red Cabbage brings comfort, elegance, and tradition to any table. Trust me: once you try it, you’ll want to make it part of every family gathering!

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of Mary Berry Red Cabbage is that it’s built on a handful of simple, wholesome ingredients. All of these staples combine to create a side that’s rich and satisfying but never heavy. Here’s why each one is essential:

• Red cabbage: The star ingredient, delivering bold color, slight crunch, and a gentle sweetness that’s unmistakable.
• Onion: Adds aromatic depth and a touch of savory flavor that rounds everything out.
• Cooking apple (like Bramley): Brings a tart, fruity note that balances the richness of the cabbage.
• Brown sugar: Enhances the natural sweetness and helps caramelize everything as it cooks.
• Red wine vinegar: Offers a fresh, tangy kick that lifts all the other flavors beautifully.
• Ground cinnamon: Provides warmth and a hint of spice that tastes like a cozy hug.
• Ground allspice: Offers a subtle, earthy aroma that transforms the cabbage’s flavor profile.
• Butter: Adds richness and binds all the flavors together for a silky texture.
• Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors forward.

How to Make Mary Berry Red Cabbage

Step 1: Prep the Produce

Start by thinly slicing the red cabbage and onion, then peeling and coarsely grating the apple. This bit of prep is worth every second: the fine shreds absorb the flavors like magic, ensuring every bite of Mary Berry Red Cabbage is perfectly seasoned and full of character.

Step 2: Layer the Ingredients

In a large ovenproof casserole or Dutch oven, arrange a layer of cabbage, followed by onion, then apple. Sprinkle over some brown sugar, red wine vinegar, cinnamon, and allspice between layers, repeating until everything is used up. Finish with cubes of butter on top. This layering method isn’t just for looks; it ensures every bite is infused with sweetness, spice, and a gentle tang from the vinegar.

Step 3: Bake Low and Slow

Cover the casserole dish tightly with a lid or foil and slide it into the oven at 150°C (300°F). Bake for about 2 to 2 ½ hours, giving it a gentle stir every hour or so. As it cooks, the Mary Berry Red Cabbage transforms into a meltingly tender medley, the flavors mingling into something truly special.

Step 4: Season to Perfection

Once the cabbage has softened and turned irresistibly glossy, remove from the oven. Give it a generous seasoning of salt and cracked black pepper. Taste and adjust sugar or vinegar if you like it sweeter or tangier. This last step is your secret finishing touch that lets you customize it to your liking.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Spoon the steaming Mary Berry Red Cabbage into a serving dish straight from the oven. Watch everyone’s eyes light up as the aromas fill your kitchen. This is when all your patient layering and slow cooking really pays off!

How to Serve Mary Berry Red Cabbage

Garnishes

Sprinkle a handful of freshly chopped parsley or thyme over your Mary Berry Red Cabbage just before serving. If you want something a touch festive, a scattering of pomegranate seeds or even a few toasted walnuts adds crunch and extra color.

Side Dishes

Mary Berry Red Cabbage is the ultimate companion for any roast, particularly pork, duck, or beef. It’s equally delightful alongside nut roasts if you’re after a vegetarian spread. Don’t forget fluffy mashed potatoes or buttery spaetzle to soak up the delicious juices!

Creative Ways to Present

If you’re looking to impress, try serving individual portions of Mary Berry Red Cabbage in mini casserole dishes or on a dramatic white platter to highlight its jewel-like hue. For a rustic twist, tuck it inside baked potatoes or use it as a warm bed for sliced roast meats.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Mary Berry Red Cabbage is a true gift! Simply let it cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even tastier.

Freezing

Mary Berry Red Cabbage freezes beautifully. Cool it fully, portion into freezer-safe containers, and tuck away for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating so it stays deliciously moist and tender.

Reheating

To reheat, pop the cabbage into a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring now and then until warmed through. Add a splash of water or a knob of butter if it looks a little dry. Alternatively, the microwave works perfectly for quick single servings.

FAQs

Can I make Mary Berry Red Cabbage ahead of time?

Absolutely! This dish actually improves in flavor if made a day or two ahead. The spices and tangy notes develop beautifully with time. Simply reheat gently when ready to serve.

What kind of apple works best?

A cooking apple like Bramley or Granny Smith is ideal, as their sharpness brightens the dish. If you only have sweet apples, just reduce the brown sugar a smidge for balance.

Is there a way to make it vegan?

Yes! Substitute the butter with vegan margarine or a splash of olive oil. The dish will still be rich and flavorful, with all the same beautiful textures.

Can I cook Mary Berry Red Cabbage on the stovetop?

You can! Just use a heavy-bottomed pot with a tight-fitting lid. Cook on low, stirring occasionally, for about 90 minutes until tender and fragrant. The oven version develops a deeper flavor, but stovetop is great for saving time.

What proteins does Mary Berry Red Cabbage pair well with?

It’s fantastic alongside pork, roast beef, sausages, or duck, but it also pairs delightfully with vegetarian mains like lentil loaf or grilled mushrooms. The balance of sweet, sour, and spice means it compliments just about everything!

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend Mary Berry Red Cabbage enough. It brightens any meal with its jewel-toned color and layers of flavor, and it’s nearly impossible to get wrong. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself making it for every occasion – or just because you feel like a cozy treat. Happy cooking!

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