Best German Braised Cabbage Recipe – Oma’s Bavarian Weisskraut * (2024)

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Best German Braised Cabbage Recipe – Oma’s Bavarian Weisskraut * (1)

by: Gerhild Fulson / Cookbook Author, Blogger, German Oma!

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Looking for an easy braised cabbage recipe? Bayrisches Weisskraut, aka Bavarian white cabbage, is a great recipe that has simple ingredients.

Although sauerkraut is probably the most common cabbage recipe associated with Germany, this easy braised cabbage side dish is a long time favorite among locals in the southern part of Germany.

Not only is this a super simple recipe, but it's a great way to use a head of cabbage, the main ingredient. Usually made with green variety (though in German, it's called white) it can also be made using savoy cabbage, with the end result being a milder taste.

Either way, it's one of the favorite ways to use the humble cabbage.

Best German Braised Cabbage Recipe – Oma’s Bavarian Weisskraut * (4)

There's a certain sweet/sourness to this braised cabbage dish that's just like eating candy! It really does taste great with almost anything. The seasonings make this dish a traditional German food.

If you like your cabbage a bit tangy, add a touch of vinegar at the end for extra flavor. The resulting sweet-sour taste is one I just love - I remember it so well from my Mutti's kitchen.

This braised cabbage, stemming from the Bavarian region is one that is also loved during the Oktoberfest celebrations. If you're planning on creating your own Oktoberfest party, then include this cabbage dish as one of your sides.

It's a good thing to make it the day ahead, since it really does taste better the next day.

Are There Benefits To Eating Cabbage?

Cabbage is VERY healthy for you and your body in many ways. While it is low in calories, its nutrient profile speaks for itself! It's exceptionally high in vitamin K, vitamin A and vitamin C. It's high in fibre, folate, magnesium and potassium.

When it is fermented, think sauerkraut, it even has natural probiotics. Of course, fresh cabbage is super healthy, think coleslaw!

I can't forget to mention the greatest benefit of all...it is oh-so tasty and inexpensive (a large cabbage goes a long way!), besides being good for you! That's what makes cabbage so wunderbar.

Has this veggie earned its spot on your plate yet?

Celebrate Oktoberfest right at home with these German recipes found right here in Oma's Oktoberfest e-Cookbook.

Best German Braised Cabbage Recipe – Oma’s Bavarian Weisskraut * (5)

Take a peek at all Oma's eCookbooks. They make sharing your German heritage a delicious adventure!

What is Braising?

Braising, known as schmoren in German, is the method whereby meat or vegetables are first browned over high heat. A small amount of flavorful liquid, such as chicken stock, is added, the pot is covered, and then it's slowly simmered until the meat or vegetables are tender.

In the dish below, browning (or caramelizing) the onions gives such a delicious flavor. Add the cabbage to these browned onions and continue browning the cabbage for a little while. The caramelized cabbage will add such delicious flavors, you'll be absolutely amazed.

How to cut cabbage?

  • After washing the cabbage, remove any loose outer leaves.
  • Cut the bottom part of the stem off.
  • Cut the cabbage in half from top to bottom.
  • Cut the cabbage pieces into into several wedges, again from top to bottom.
  • Cut off the stem and the center core from each piece.
  • Cut the cabbage wedges by placing them cut side down and slicing as thinly or as thickly as desired

For this Weisskraut dish, I don't slice the wedges of cabbage too thinly. We like to have a bit more body to the final dish, as you can see in the photo above.

Lydia Remembers...

I have so many wunderbar memories in the kitchen with my Oma, and have had MANY of her most popular and traditional recipes, like this braised cabbage.

Though this braised green cabbage side dish is not my favorite things (I absolutely LOVE red cabbage though), I still enjoyed making it with Oma from time to time. This recipe is VERY German and very much loved by the rest of my family.

Cabbage is so versatile. It can be served on it's own, served over bratwurst, and even in a salad! Oh, and don't forget to try Oma's red cabbage. It's my absolute fav!

Go to recipe >

But first, try Oma's super German braised cabbage recipe below, add your own little flare to it and enjoy!

Learn a little bit about me,Lydia, and my kitchen adventures with Oma!

What to serve with braised cabbage?

There's very little that doesn't go with braised cabbage, but below are my favorite meats. If you're not wanting meat with this, perhaps making Krautfleckenwith the cabbage would be an interesting alternative.

  • Roast chicken
  • Pork hocks
  • Meat loaf
  • Sausages
  • Pork roast

Oma's Fun Fact:

The caraway seed isn't just in there for flavor!

Did you know that adding caraway seed is a very natural way for helping to reduce the 'gas' problem that seems to follow some people when eating cabbage!

Ready to make this braised cabbage?

Is the recipe below locked?Here'swhy.

Best German Braised Cabbage Recipe – Oma’s Bavarian Weisskraut * (8)

Best German Braised Cabbage Recipe – Oma’s Bayrisches Weisskraut

Looking for an easy braised cabbage recipe? Bayrisches Weisskraut, aka Bavarian white cabbage, stems from Bavaria, the home of Oktoberfest in Munich. Although sauerkraut is probably the most commonly associated with Germany, this easy side dish is a long time favorite recipe with locals in the southern part of Germany,

Usually made with green cabbage (though in German, it's called white) it can also be made using savoy cabbage, with the end result being a milder taste. If you're wanting the northern version, try this braised cabbage. It's the one I grew up with.

Prep Time

15 minutes

Cook Time

45 minutes

Total Time

60 minutes

Servings:

Makes 6 servings

Ingredients:

Ingredients:

  • 2 - 3 tablespoons olive oil or bacon fat
  • 1 onion, sliced
  • 3 tablespoonssugar
  • 1 garlic clove, crushed
  • ½ large green (white) cabbage, coarsely shredded
  • salt, freshly ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon caraway seeds
  • 1 cup chicken broth
  • 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar (to taste, optional)

Instructions:

  1. In large skillet or dutch oven, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onions and brown slightly.
  2. Stir sugar and some of the shredded cabbage. Continue to saute over medium heat until some of the cabbage is browned as well.
  3. Add garlic, caraway seeds, and broth. Stir to scrape up any browned bits at the bottom of the pan. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Bring to boil and lower temperature. Cover and simmer on low heat for about ½ hour or until cabbage is tender, stirring occasionally and adding extra broth or water if needed.
  5. Season with salt, pepper, and vinegar.

Notes/Hints:

  • To thicken sauce, dissolve 1 to 2 tablespoonscornstarch in a bit of cold water. Slowly add just enough to boiling liquid until thickened.
  • Use vegetable broth if you're making this vegan. Water can also be substituted for this.
  • You can substitute with apple cider vinegar, if you wish.
  • You can decrease or increase the cooking time depending on how 'tender' you like the cabbage.
  • Add a bay leaf, if desired.
  • For another great side dish that's from northern Germany,braised cabbage recipe.
  • If you've got a purple cabbage lying around, then here's the absolute best way to make that.

Unless otherwise noted recipe, images and content © Just like Oma | www.quick-german-recipes.com

08.11.2021 revision update

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Meet with us around Oma's table, pull up a chair, grab a coffee and a piece of Apfelstrudel, and enjoy the visit.

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Best German Braised Cabbage Recipe – Oma’s Bavarian Weisskraut * (19)

Best German Braised Cabbage Recipe ~ Oma’s Bayrisches Weisskraut

By Oma Gerhild Fulson
Best German Braised Cabbage Recipe – Oma’s Bavarian Weisskraut * (20)
Make the BEST Bavarian braised cabbage recipe just that’s perfect for Oktoberfest or anytime you’re wanting a traditional German side dish. It’s Weisskraut, just like Oma makes it.

Ingredients: oil,onion,garlic,green cabbage,seasonings,broth,vinegar,

For the full recipe, scroll up ...

Words to the Wise

"People with understanding control their anger; a hot temper shows great foolishness."

Proverbs 14:29 (NLT)

Top of Braised Cabbage Recipe

Best German Braised Cabbage Recipe – Oma’s Bavarian Weisskraut  * (2024)

FAQs

Best German Braised Cabbage Recipe – Oma’s Bavarian Weisskraut *? ›

In Northern Germany, where I'm from, red cabbage is called Rotkohl. In Central and Western Germany it is called Rotkraut. And in Southern Germany it is called Blaukohl or Blaukraut, which translate to blue cabbage.

What is the difference between Rotkohl and Blaukraut? ›

In Northern Germany, where I'm from, red cabbage is called Rotkohl. In Central and Western Germany it is called Rotkraut. And in Southern Germany it is called Blaukohl or Blaukraut, which translate to blue cabbage.

What is Blaukraut made of? ›

Red cabbage with apples is a traditional German side dish for pork roast and other roasts, Christmas goose, turkey, and game. It tastes even better when reheated so I usually make it the day before. It is a staple on most people's home for Christmas dinner.

What is a German dish of chopped cabbage? ›

Sauerkraut (/ˈsaʊ. ərˌkraʊt/; German: [ˈzaʊ. ɐˌkʁaʊt], lit. 'sour cabbage') is finely cut raw cabbage that has been fermented by various lactic acid bacteria.

How do you cook cabbage Jamie Oliver? ›

Whatever cabbage you are using, cut off the dry end of the stalk. If using Hispi, quarter the cabbage lengthways through its core. If using a regular white cabbage, cut it into manageable wedges, again through the core. Steam for about 10 minutes until it looks rather relaxed and easy to cut through.

What is German fermented cabbage called? ›

Sauerkraut is fermented shredded cabbage with a tangy, salty flavor. Despite the German name, it actually originated in China over 2,000 years ago.

What is the meaning of Blaukraut? ›

red cabbage. Synonym. Rotkohl. (Translation of Blaukraut from the GLOBAL German–English Dictionary © 2018 K Dictionaries Ltd)

Do Germans love cabbage? ›

Northern Germans in particular love cabbage. For almost 47.7 percent of respondents, cabbage is the favorite vegetable in winter.

Why do Eastern Europeans eat cabbage? ›

Because it takes a product which can grow quickly and plentifully in a climate which has a short growing season in Cabbage, and turns in into a nutritional food that can be stored through the long hard winter.

Is German cabbage good for you? ›

This cruciferous beauty is super anti-inflammatory and high in Vitamin C. It also contains healthy amounts of Vitamin K, and B6. Red cabbage is loaded with beneficial plant compounds and antioxidants. Next to Vitamin C, you can find carotenoids, flavonoids, anthocyanins, and kaempferol in cabbage.

How do Germans eat cabbage? ›

Cabbages of all types and colors feature in so many traditional German dishes! Everything from a northern German dish of dark green cabbage and sausage to a hearty Bavarian kohlrabi and white cabbage soup, from blaukraut (a braised red cabbage side dish) to pork chops with sauerkraut, a complete meal in a pan.

What nationality eats the most cabbage? ›

China produces nearly half of the world's cabbage while Russia consumes the most per person. The average Russian eats about 44 pounds of cabbage a year. That compares to the 8.6 pounds eaten by Americans. Raw cabbage is rich in vitamin C.

What do Germans call sauerkraut? ›

What does sauerkraut mean? Sauerkraut is the German language equivalent of “sour cabbage.” In reality though, it can mean different things to different people. To busy home chefs, sauerkraut, or fermented cabbage, is a fast, easy way to liven up their families' favorite meals.

Why do you put vinegar in cabbage when boiling it? ›

Green is the heartiest variety; it takes well to all cooking methods. Red can turn a funny blue color when cooked, so it's best used raw. If you do want to cook it, add a touch of acid like lemon juice or vinegar to lessen the effect. Savoy can be used in any recipe that calls for green cabbage.

Why do you put baking soda in cabbage? ›

Adding baking soda to your boiling cabbage can help reduce the objectionable smell and maintain the green color long after when it typically turns grayish from cooking for too long. However, this may rid the cabbage of its nutritional value.

Why do you soak cabbage before cooking? ›

Crisp it up: Shredded cabbage stays perky if it's soaked in cold water.

Is it Rotkohl or Rotkraut? ›

Simple answer; Rotkohl and Rotkraut, both mean the same. It is only that in different regions of Germany it is known as Rotkohl. In other areas it is referred to as Rotkraut. Das Rotkraut is The red pickled cabbage and “ Das RotKohl is the Red cabbage in its freshest form.

Is there a difference in taste between red and white cabbage? ›

So, while red cabbage may taste sweeter due to the presence of anthocyanins, white or green cabbage has a stronger bitter taste due to higher levels of glucosinolates. The taste difference between these types of cabbage can also be influenced by factors such as growing conditions, variety, and cooking methods.

What is the difference between Chinese cabbage and European cabbage? ›

The thick white ribs and crinkly yellow-green leaves of napa cabbage are tender crisp, and have a sweet flavor that's more mellow than that of its pungent European cabbage cousins. Napa cabbage can be eaten raw or cooked.

Is there a difference in taste between red and green cabbage? ›

Aside from the noticeable difference in color, red cabbage has an earthier taste and bulbs are smaller and denser. Green cabbage tends to turn sweeter when it cooks and a little bigger in size than the red. The leaves of the green are wide fan-like while of red are small fan-like. They both have crunchy texture.

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