Red Wine–Braised Cabbage and Onions
Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 17 Jan 2026
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This classic red wine-braised cabbage and onions recipe is a sophisticated take on a traditional British side dish. By slowly simmering the red cabbage with crisp apples, balsamic vinegar and warming spices, you create a deep, savoury flavour profile with a pleasant hint of sweetness. The vibrant purple hue makes it a visual centrepiece for any table, offering a luxurious texture that complements a wide range of main courses.
As a versatile vegetarian dish, this braised cabbage is an ideal accompaniment to a Sunday roast or a festive Christmas dinner. It is particularly practical for busy hosts, as the flavours continue to develop and improve if made a day in advance. Packed with nutrients and warming autumnal notes, it is a healthy yet comforting addition to your seasonal recipe repertoire.
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Ingredients for Red Wine–Braised Cabbage and Onions
3/4 stick (6 tablespoons ) unsalted butter
675g red onions, halved lengthwise, then cut lengthwise into 1/4-inch-thick slices
1 (3-pound) head of red cabbage, cut lengthwise into 8 wedges and wedges cut crosswise into 1/4-inch-thick slices (3850ml )
475ml dry red wine (from a 750-ml bottle)
475ml water
60ml red-wine vinegar
60ml balsamic vinegar
1 firm sweet apple, such as Honey Crisp, Gala, or Fuji, peeled and coarsely grated
1 1/2 tablespoons sugar
1 1/4 teaspoons salt
10 whole black peppercorns
2 whole cloves
1 Turkish or 1/2 California bay leaf
a 6-inch square of cheesecloth
kitchen string
How to make Red Wine–Braised Cabbage and Onions
Heat butter in a 6- to 8-quart wide heavy pot over moderately high heat until foam subsides, then cook onion and cabbage, stirring frequently, until wilted and slightly browned, about 20 minutes.
Add wine, water, vinegars, apple, sugar, and salt and bring to a boil.
Wrap peppercorns, cloves, and bay leaf in cheesecloth and tie with string. Add to cabbage mixture, then cover cabbage directly with a round of parchment or wax paper and cover pot with lid. Reduce heat and simmer until cabbage is very tender, about 2 hours.
Discard cheesecloth bundle and season cabbage with salt and pepper.
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.
17 Jan 2026 | Originally published
Authored by:
UK recipe editors
Peer reviewed by
UK recipe editors

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