Mary Berry’s Spiced Red Cabbage is a beautifully fragrant and flavorful side dish that transforms humble red cabbage into something truly special. Known for her approachable yet refined recipes, Mary Berry takes this often-overlooked vegetable and infuses it with a medley of warming spices-think cinnamon, cloves, and bay leaves-along with a gentle sweetness from apples and sugar. The result is tender, slightly sweet, and deeply aromatic cabbage that complements rich meats like roast pork, duck, or sausages, cutting through the fat with its subtle acidity and spice.
The magic of this recipe lies in its balance: the vinegar adds brightness, the sugar lends a caramelized sweetness, and the spices bring warmth and complexity. Red cabbage, with its vibrant purple-red color, not only makes the plate pop visually but also adds a healthy dose of fiber and antioxidants. Mary’s take on spiced red cabbage is traditional yet timeless, evoking cozy family dinners and festive celebrations.
Mary Berry’s Spiced Red Cabbage Recipe
Ingredients Needed
To create this classic dish in true Mary Berry style, you’ll need a handful of simple yet carefully chosen ingredients that bring out the best in red cabbage:
- Red cabbage: About 1 medium head, finely shredded. This is the star ingredient-fresh, crisp, and packed with flavor.
- Apples: Typically one or two cooking apples (such as Bramley) peeled and sliced thinly. Apples add a natural sweetness and soften the cabbage’s bite.
- Onion: A medium onion, finely chopped, adds a savory depth.
- Butter: For sautéing the onion and softening the cabbage, giving it a silky texture.
- Brown sugar: Adds a rich, caramel-like sweetness that balances the tartness.
- Red wine vinegar: The acidity here is crucial-it brightens and cuts through the sweetness.
- Water: A splash to help the cabbage cook gently.
- Spices: Whole cloves, cinnamon stick, and bay leaves are traditional. These spices infuse the cabbage with a warm, aromatic complexity.
- Salt and pepper: To season perfectly.
Each ingredient is essential to build layers of flavor, ensuring the final dish is nuanced, comforting, and well-balanced.
Equipment Needed
While the ingredients are straightforward, having the right equipment can make all the difference in achieving the perfect texture and flavor:
- Large heavy-based saucepan or casserole dish: To cook the cabbage evenly without burning.
- Sharp knife and chopping board: For finely shredding the cabbage and slicing apples.
- Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring gently while the cabbage simmers.
- Measuring spoons and cups: To get your sugar, vinegar, and spices just right.
- Colander: For washing and draining the cabbage.
- Peeler: To peel the apples efficiently.
- Lid for the pan: To cover while simmering and trap steam, which helps soften the cabbage.
- Optional: String or muslin cloth: To bundle the whole spices if you prefer to remove them easily after cooking (though Mary Berry’s recipe often leaves them loose).
Having these tools ready ensures the cooking process is smooth and enjoyable.
Instructions To Make Mary Berry’s Spiced Red Cabbage
Here’s a step-by-step guide to making this delightful side dish, inspired by Mary Berry’s classic method:
- Prepare the cabbage: Remove any tough outer leaves and finely shred the red cabbage using a sharp knife. Rinse well under cold water and drain thoroughly in a colander.
- Prepare the apples and onion: Peel the apples, core them, and slice thinly. Finely chop the onion.
- Start cooking: Melt the butter in a large heavy-based pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook gently until soft and translucent, about 5 minutes-this builds the flavor base.
- Add cabbage and apples: Stir in the shredded cabbage and sliced apples, mixing well to coat everything in the butter and onion mix.
- Add seasoning: Sprinkle in the brown sugar, then pour in the red wine vinegar and a splash of water (about 50-100 ml). Toss in the whole spices-cloves, cinnamon stick, and bay leaves-and season with salt and pepper.
- Simmer gently: Cover the pan with a lid and let the cabbage cook slowly on low heat for about 45 minutes to an hour. Stir occasionally, ensuring it doesn’t stick or burn. The cabbage should soften completely and absorb the sweet, tangy, and spiced flavors.
- Check seasoning and serve: Once tender and fragrant, taste and adjust seasoning with more salt, pepper, or vinegar if needed. Remove the whole spices before serving if preferred.
This slow-cooked process develops deep, rich flavors and a melt-in-the-mouth texture that makes this dish so memorable.
Tips And Tricks
- Use fresh cabbage: For the best flavor and texture, always choose a firm, fresh red cabbage with vibrant color.
- Don’t rush the cooking: Low and slow is key. The longer you let the cabbage simmer, the more tender and flavorful it becomes.
- Balance your vinegar and sugar: Depending on your taste and the apples’ sweetness, adjust the sugar and vinegar slightly to get that perfect sweet-tart harmony.
- Experiment with spices: While cloves, cinnamon, and bay leaves are traditional, you can also add star anise or a pinch of nutmeg for an extra twist.
- Bundle the spices: If you prefer not to find cloves or cinnamon sticks in the dish while eating, tie them in a muslin bag or tea infuser before adding them to the pan.
- Make ahead: This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen, making it a great make-ahead side.
- Serve warm or at room temperature: Both work beautifully depending on your meal setting.
Mary Berry’s Spiced Red Cabbage is more than just a vegetable side-it’s a fragrant, comforting, and colorful addition that elevates any meal. With its combination of tender cabbage, sweet apples, warming spices, and a delicate balance of sweet and tangy flavors, it perfectly complements hearty roasts and festive dinners alike. The recipe’s straightforward ingredients and method make it accessible to cooks of all levels, while the slow simmering allows even novice chefs to develop rich, deep flavors with minimal effort.
Whether you’re looking to add a touch of traditional British charm to your holiday table or simply want a delicious way to enjoy red cabbage, Mary Berry’s Spiced Red Cabbage is a classic recipe well worth mastering. It’s a timeless dish that brings warmth, color, and irresistible flavor to your plate.
Easy Recipe Variations For Mary Berry’s Spiced Red Cabbage
Mary Berry’s Spiced Red Cabbage is a classic, comforting dish that bursts with vibrant color and a warming blend of spices-think cinnamon, cloves, and star anise mingling with the natural sweetness of red cabbage. But what makes this recipe truly wonderful is how adaptable it is. If you’re looking to tweak it a little or make it your own, here are some easy variations that add exciting twists without complicating the process.
1. Fruity Flair:
Mary’s original recipe often includes apples, which balance the earthy cabbage with a touch of natural sweetness. For a more complex fruitiness, try adding diced pears, cranberries, or even dried cherries. Toss them in toward the end of cooking so they soften but retain a bit of bite. The tartness of cranberries or cherries adds an unexpected zing, making the dish pop against rich meats like roast pork or duck.
2. A Tangy Kick:
For those who like a bit of tang, add a splash of red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar during the simmering stage. This brightens the flavors and cuts through the sweetness, creating a perfectly balanced side. Alternatively, a dash of balsamic vinegar can add a deep, almost caramel-like acidity.
3. Spice It Up:
If you prefer a spicier profile, consider introducing a small pinch of chili flakes or a finely chopped fresh chili. It’s subtle but adds warmth underneath the sweet spices without overpowering the dish. Ground ginger or star anise can also be intensified for a more pronounced aromatic experience.
4. Savory Boost:
Some cooks like to introduce a savory element such as sautéed onions or shallots before adding the cabbage. This adds depth and richness. You can even stir in a teaspoon of mustard or a knob of butter near the end for an indulgent finish.
5. Vegan and Gluten-Free Variations:
Mary Berry’s recipe is naturally gluten-free if you watch the stock and spice blends you use. For a vegan twist, swap any butter with olive oil or coconut oil, and ensure your stock is vegetable-based. A touch of maple syrup or agave can replace honey or sugar, enhancing the dish’s natural sweetness in a vegan-friendly way.
These variations keep the essence of Mary’s original spiced cabbage but allow you to customize it based on what you have in the pantry or your personal taste preferences.
Storing Leftovers
One of the greatest joys of Mary Berry’s Spiced Red Cabbage is that it actually improves in flavor the next day-the spices have more time to infuse and the cabbage softens into a tender, aromatic delight. But knowing how to store it properly ensures you keep that freshness and flavor intact.
Cool Before Storing:
First, let the cabbage cool to room temperature. Putting hot food directly into the fridge can raise the internal temperature and affect other stored items, plus it can create condensation which encourages bacterial growth.
Airtight Containers Are Key:
Transfer the spiced cabbage into an airtight container. Glass containers are ideal because they don’t retain odors and are easy to clean. If you don’t have glass, any food-grade plastic container with a tight lid works well.
Refrigeration Timeline:
Stored properly, your spiced cabbage will stay fresh for up to 4-5 days in the refrigerator. Always check for any off smells or mold before reheating.
Freezing Option:
If you want to store it longer, freezing is a good choice. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags, removing as much air as possible. Frozen spiced cabbage can last up to 3 months. When you’re ready to eat it, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water or stock if it seems dry.
Reheating Tips:
Reheat slowly on a low heat to avoid overcooking and losing the beautiful texture. Stir occasionally, and if the cabbage has thickened too much, a splash of apple juice, stock, or even a little orange juice can bring it back to life.
What To Eat With Mary Berry’s Spiced Red Cabbage?
Mary Berry’s Spiced Red Cabbage is an incredibly versatile side that pairs beautifully with a wide variety of mains, adding both color and complex flavor to your plate.
Traditional Roasts:
This cabbage is a classic accompaniment to roast pork, especially when the pork is glazed or cooked with apples. The natural sweetness of the cabbage balances the savory richness of the meat. It’s also fantastic alongside roast duck or goose, where its spiced notes complement the fatty, gamey flavors perfectly.
Hearty Comfort Food:
Try it with meatloaf, sausages, or even a comforting beef stew. The acidity and spice cut through the heaviness of these dishes, refreshing your palate with each bite.
Vegetarian Pairings:
For a meat-free meal, serve the spiced cabbage alongside lentil loaf, roasted root vegetables, or a hearty grain dish like wild rice pilaf. It adds a punch of flavor that makes vegetarian meals feel indulgent and satisfying.
With Cheese and Charcuterie:
Believe it or not, spiced red cabbage is excellent on a cheese board. Its tangy, sweet, and spiced profile pairs beautifully with creamy cheeses like Brie or blue cheese and also works as a relish with cured meats and pâtés.
In Sandwiches and Wraps:
For a quick lunch twist, layer the cabbage inside a sandwich or wrap with roasted meats or falafel for a burst of flavor and crunch. It’s a surprisingly fresh and colorful addition that transforms everyday sandwiches into something special.
Conclusion
Mary Berry’s Spiced Red Cabbage is much more than just a side dish; it’s a vibrant celebration of flavors and textures that enriches any meal. Its beautiful balance of sweetness, spice, and acidity makes it incredibly versatile and easy to customize, whether you’re adding fruits, adjusting the spice levels, or adapting it to suit dietary needs. The fact that it stores well and actually tastes better the next day makes it perfect for batch cooking and enjoying over several meals.
Whether you’re planning a festive roast, a comforting midweek dinner, or an inventive vegetarian feast, this spiced cabbage adds a splash of color and a warm, aromatic touch that elevates your entire menu. So next time you make Mary Berry’s classic, don’t be afraid to experiment a little-and savor every delicious bite.
FAQs
What Ingredients Are Needed For Mary Berry’s Spiced Red Cabbage Recipe?
To make Mary Berry’s spiced red cabbage, you’ll need the following ingredients: 1 medium red cabbage, a large onion, 2 apples (peeled and sliced), 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, 1 teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1/2 teaspoon of ground cloves, 3 tablespoons of red wine vinegar, 150ml of water, salt, and pepper to taste. The combination of apples, vinegar, and spices gives this dish its signature sweet and tangy flavor.
How Long Does It Take To Cook Mary Berry’s Spiced Red Cabbage?
Mary Berry’s spiced red cabbage typically takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour to cook. The preparation time is around 10-15 minutes, and then you simmer the cabbage mixture until it becomes tender, allowing all the flavors to meld together. It’s important to keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Can I Make Mary Berry’s Spiced Red Cabbage Ahead Of Time?
Yes, you can make Mary Berry’s spiced red cabbage ahead of time. In fact, the flavors often improve after a day or two, making it a great dish for meal prepping or holiday meals. Simply allow the cabbage to cool after cooking, then store it in an airtight container in the fridge. You can reheat it on the stove or in the microwave before serving.
