Pickled Cabbage

Craving a vibrant, tangy crunch to elevate your meals? Look no further! This incredibly easy Pickled Cabbage recipe transforms humble red cabbage into a sensational, zesty condiment perfect for everything from tacos to juicy burgers.

Why You’ll Love This Pickled Cabbage

This quick pickled cabbage isn’t just a recipe; it’s a game-changer for your kitchen. Here’s why you’ll find yourself making it again and again:

• Effortlessly Quick: From prep to fridge, you’re looking at just 15 minutes of your time!
• Flavor Burst: It delivers a bright, tangy, slightly sweet, and peppery zing with every bite.
• Crunchy Perfection: The pickling process maintains the cabbage’s delightful crispness, adding incredible texture.
• Versatile Star: Ideal as a topping for savory dishes or a refreshing side salad.
• Vibrant Color: The red cabbage turns a stunning fuchsia when pickled, making any plate pop.
• Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, inexpensive ingredients readily available in any grocery store.
• Healthy Boost: Packed with beneficial nutrients, it’s a guilt-free addition to your plate.
• Meal Prep Friendly: It stores beautifully in the fridge for up to two weeks, ready whenever you need it.

Ingredients Needed for Quick Pickled Cabbage

Gathering your ingredients for this vibrant pickled cabbage is a breeze. These everyday staples come together to create something truly special:

• Red Cabbage: 1/2 head, thinly sliced (about 350-400g). Choose a firm, dense head with vibrant, unblemished outer leaves. Its natural pigments will turn a beautiful pink-purple hue.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: 1 cup (240ml). This is the tangy heart of our brine. Opt for a good quality apple cider vinegar, as its flavor truly shines through.
• Water: 1/2 cup (120ml). Used to balance the acidity of the vinegar, creating a perfect pickling liquid.
• Granulated Sugar: 2 tablespoons (25g). Just enough to mellow the tartness and add a hint of sweetness, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• Salt: 1 tablespoon (15g). Essential for flavor and a key component in the pickling process.
• Black Peppercorns: 1/2 teaspoon. These little spice bombs infuse a subtle warmth and aromatic depth into your brine.

YOU MIGHT LOVE: Green Cabbage Cucumber Salad – A refreshing side that pairs perfectly with almost any meal.

Essential Equipment for Your Pickled Cabbage

Making this pickled cabbage requires minimal fuss, but having the right tools makes the process even smoother:

• Large Glass Jar (at least 1-liter capacity): A clean, sterilized jar is crucial for safely storing your pickled cabbage. Glass allows you to admire its beautiful color!
• Small Saucepan: Perfect for simmering the brine ingredients until they’re fully dissolved and fragrant.
• Sharp Knife or Mandoline: A sharp knife ensures even, thin slices of cabbage for optimal pickling. A mandoline makes this task incredibly fast and uniform.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: Accuracy in measurements guarantees the perfect balance of sweet, salty, and tangy flavors in your brine.

Recipe Overview for Effortless Pickled Cabbage

Quick, easy, and endlessly adaptable, here’s a snapshot of what to expect:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Servings: 10 servings
• Difficulty: Very Easy

Step-by-Step Instructions for Your Perfect Pickled Cabbage

Ready to transform your red cabbage into a vibrant, crunchy condiment? Follow these simple steps for delicious results every time!

Step 1: Prep the Cabbage

1. Slice the cabbage: First, halve the red cabbage and remove the core. Then, using a sharp knife or mandoline, thinly slice the half-head of red cabbage. Aim for consistent, delicate shreds.
2. Jar the cabbage: Next, carefully place all of the thinly sliced cabbage into a large, clean glass jar. You might need to press it down gently to fit.

Step 2: Create the Brine

1. Combine ingredients: In a small saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, salt, and black peppercorns.
2. Simmer the brine: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat. Stir continuously until both the sugar and salt are completely dissolved, about 2-3 minutes. You’ll notice the liquid becoming clear and fragrant.

Step 3: Pickle and Chill

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1. Pour over cabbage: Carefully pour the hot, flavorful liquid directly over the sliced cabbage in the jar. Ensure all the cabbage is fully submerged in the brine.
2. Cool and refrigerate: Allow the jar to cool undisturbed on your counter until it reaches room temperature. Then, cover the jar tightly and transfer it to the refrigerator. Allow it to chill for at least 2 hours to let the flavors meld and the cabbage soften slightly while retaining its crispness.

CHECK OUT: Roasted Cabbage Steaks – A simple, savory way to enjoy more of this versatile vegetable.

Tips for Success with Homemade Pickled Cabbage

Achieving perfectly crisp and flavorful pickled cabbage is easy with these expert tips:

• Slice Uniformly: Consistent thin slicing ensures even pickling and a pleasant texture throughout.
• Pack Tightly: Gently press the cabbage into the jar to reduce air pockets and ensure maximum submersion in the brine.
• Taste the Brine: Before pouring, taste your cooled brine. Adjust sugar or salt if you prefer it sweeter or saltier.
• Be Patient: While 2 hours works, allowing it to pickle overnight enhances the depth of flavor significantly.
• Add a Kick: For those who love heat, toss in a few slices of fresh jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes with the cabbage before pouring the brine.

Variations & Substitutions for Your Pickled Cabbage

This pickled cabbage recipe is wonderfully versatile! Feel free to experiment with these delicious twists:

• Garlic & Herb: Add 2-3 cloves of sliced garlic and a sprig of fresh dill or thyme to the jar.
• Spicy Kick: Include a sliced jalapeño (as per the tip!), a few dashes of hot sauce, or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the brine.
• Sweet & Tangy: For a slightly sweeter profile, increase the sugar to 3 tablespoons.
• Mixed Veggies: Pickle other thinly sliced vegetables like carrots, red onion, or bell peppers along with the cabbage.
• Vinegar Swap: Experiment with white wine vinegar or rice vinegar for a different subtle flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions for Bright Pickled Cabbage

This vibrant pickled cabbage is incredibly versatile and can brighten up almost any meal. Here are some fantastic ways to enjoy it:

• Taco Topper: The ultimate crunchy, tangy complement to any taco, from beef to black bean.
• Burger & Sandwich Booster: Elevate your favorite burgers, pulled chicken sandwiches, or veggie wraps.
• Salad Star: Toss it into green salads for an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
• Grain Bowl Garnish: Add a spoonful to Buddha bowls or grain bowls for a zesty pop.
• Side Dish: Serve it simply alongside roasted vegetables or grilled proteins.
• Non-Alcoholic Drinks: Pair with a refreshing Sparkling Pineapple Lemonade or a simple iced tea.

Health Benefits of Pickled Cabbage

Beyond its incredible taste, this pickled cabbage offers several nutritional advantages that make it a smart addition to your diet:

• Rich in Vitamins: Cabbage is packed with Vitamin C and K, essential for immunity and bone health.
• Fiber Powerhouse: It provides dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting gut health.
• Antioxidant Rich: Red cabbage, in particular, contains anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants that fight inflammation.
• Low Calorie: At just 30 kcal per serving, it’s a light and flavorful condiment.
• Hydrating: The high water content in cabbage contributes to overall hydration.

Storage & Reheating Your Delicious Pickled Cabbage

Keep your homemade pickled cabbage fresh and crunchy for enjoyment over several meals:

• Refrigeration: Store the cooled pickled cabbage in its sealed glass jar in the refrigerator.
• Longevity: It will maintain its crispness and flavor for up to 2 weeks.
• Best Served Cold: This condiment is meant to be served chilled, so no reheating is necessary. Simply scoop and enjoy!
• Airtight is Key: Always ensure the lid is tightly sealed to prevent spoilage and maintain freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pickled Cabbage

Got questions about making this fantastic pickled cabbage? We’ve got answers!

Can I use green cabbage instead of red?

Yes, absolutely! While red cabbage offers a beautiful color, green cabbage works just as well and tastes delicious. The pickling time remains the same.

How long does the cabbage need to pickle before eating?

Your pickled cabbage is ready to enjoy after a minimum of 2 hours in the refrigerator. However, for a more intense flavor, aim for at least 24 hours.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can easily double or even triple this recipe! Just ensure you have a large enough jar or multiple jars to accommodate the increased volume.

Why did my cabbage turn blue/purple?

Red cabbage contains anthocyanins, which react to pH levels. In an acidic brine, it turns a vibrant pink-purple. If it looks more blue, your vinegar might be less acidic, or you could add a tiny bit more to ensure the right color.

Can I add other spices to the brine?

Certainly! Feel free to customize your brine with spices like mustard seeds, coriander seeds, or bay leaves for extra aroma and flavor complexity.

Is this pickled cabbage spicy?

As written, the recipe is not spicy. However, you can easily add a kick by including sliced jalapeños or red pepper flakes, as suggested in the tips.

More Delicious Dishes

Looking for more vibrant flavors and delicious ways to enjoy your vegetables? Explore these amazing recipes:

• Cranberry Apple Coleslaw – Bright, tangy, and crunchy – a perfect complement to richer dishes.
• Easy Cabbage Casserole – Comfort food at its finest, hearty and wonderfully satisfying.
• Hearty and Comforting Cabbage Soup – A nourishing bowl that’s perfect for a cozy evening.

Conclusion

This quick and easy pickled cabbage recipe is your ticket to adding a burst of fresh, tangy crunch to countless meals. Bookmark this one, and get ready to impress your taste buds! Follow us on Facebook and Pinterest for more culinary inspiration.

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