Bratwurst and Red Cabbage
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 28 Jan 2026
Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines
- DownloadDownload
- Share
- Language
- Discussion
- Audio Version
This German-inspired bratwurst and red cabbage dish is a vibrant, high-protein meal that balances savoury and sweet flavours perfectly. The sausages are gently simmered in lager before being pan-fried to golden perfection, ensuring they remain succulent and juicy. Paired with a colourful braise of thinly sliced red cabbage and earthy grated beetroot, the dish offers a satisfying crunch and a complex depth of flavour further enhanced by aromatic allspice and tangy cider vinegar.
Ideal for those seeking a nutritious yet comforting dinner, this recipe is naturally packed with fibre and essential nutrients. The addition of freshly grated horseradish provides a sharp, peppery finish that cuts through the richness of the pork. Serve this one-pot wonder on its own for a low-carb option, or with a side of creamy mashed potatoes for a truly traditional feel.
In this article:
Video picks
Continue reading below
Ingredients for Bratwurst and Red Cabbage
450g uncured bratwurst
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 350g bottle Pilsner or other lager, divided
1 medium red onion, chopped
1/2 medium head of red cabbage, thinly sliced
1 medium red beet, peeled, coarsely grated
Kosher salt, freshly ground pepper
120ml apple cider vinegar
1 tablespoon light brown sugar
1/4 teaspoons ground allspice
Freshly grated horseradish (for serving)
How to make Bratwurst and Red Cabbage
Back to contentsPrick bratwurst in several places with a knife and place in a large skillet. Add oil and half of beer, then add water until liquid comes a little over halfway up sides of sausages. Bring to a simmer over medium heat. Cook, turning once, until just barely cooked through, 12–15 minutes.
Increase heat to medium-high; cook until liquid is evaporated, 5–10 minutes. Roll sausages to edge of skillet and add onion to centre. Cook, turning sausages often and stirring onion occasionally, until sausages are browned and onion is soft, 5–8 minutes. Transfer sausages to a plate.
Add cabbage and beet to skillet; season with salt and pepper. Cook, stirring often, until cabbage is wilted, about 5 minutes. Add vinegar, brown sugar, allspice, and remaining beer. Cover; cook until tender, 20–25 minutes. Serve sausages with cabbage mixture, topped with horseradish.
Disclaimer
While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.
Article history
The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.
28 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

Ask, share, connect.
Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

Feeling unwell?
Assess your symptoms online for free
Sign up to the Patient newsletter
Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.
By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.