Low Sodium Rotkraut (German Red Cabbage)

Delight in the traditional flavors of Germany with this Low Sodium Rotkraut (German Red Cabbage) recipe, a balanced and health-conscious twist on a classic side dish. Elevating tender red cabbage with sweet grated apple, tangy apple cider vinegar, and warm spices like cloves, this dish achieves a perfect harmony of sweet, savory, and tangy flavors—all without added salt. Slowly simmered to perfection, this vibrant cabbage dish develops a melt-in-your-mouth texture and a rich depth of flavor. Prepared in just over an hour, it’s an ideal accompaniment to hearty German mains like bratwurst or schnitzel, or as a vibrant addition to any meal. Low in sodium yet high in flavor, this colorful side is a must-try for anyone seeking healthier comfort food options.

Nutriscore Rating: 82/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:60 mins

Total Time:75 mins

Servings: 6

Ingredients

• 1 head (about 2 pounds) red cabbage
• 1 large, peeled, cored, and grated apple
• 1 medium, finely chopped onion
• 0.25 cup apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 0.125 teaspoon ground cloves
• 1 piece bay leaf
• 0.5 cup water
• 0.25 teaspoon, freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Directions

Step 1

Remove the outer leaves of the red cabbage and cut it into quarters. Remove the core and slice the cabbage into thin strips.

Step 2

Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, until it becomes translucent.

Step 3

Add the grated apple and sauté for an additional 2 minutes.

Step 4

Add the sliced cabbage to the pot and stir to combine with the apple and onion.

Step 5

Pour in the apple cider vinegar and water, stirring well to integrate all ingredients.

Step 6

Add the brown sugar, ground cloves, bay leaf, and ground black pepper. Stir to distribute the spices evenly.

Step 7

Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover the pot, and reduce the heat to low.

Step 8

Cook for 45-60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and flavorful.

Step 9

Remove and discard the bay leaf before serving.

Step 10

Taste and adjust any spices as necessary, though the low sodium version typically avoids additional salt.

Step 11

Serve warm as a side dish to accompany German dishes or any meal needing a tangy, sweet vegetable side.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(1504.2g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	823.3

Total Fat 29.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 4.8g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2.8g
Cholesterol 0mg	0%
Sodium 262.4mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 138.3g	0%
Dietary Fiber 27.5g	0%
Total Sugars 82.0g
Protein 12.7g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 485.1mg	0%
Iron 8.2mg	0%
Potassium 2762.5mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 30.7%

Protein: 5.8%

Carbs: 63.5%