Sweet and Sour Cabbage Recipe
Introduction
Sweet and sour cabbage is a simple, comforting side dish that balances tangy vinegar with a touch of sweetness. It’s an easy way to add vibrant flavor to your meal with just a few ingredients.

Ingredients
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
- ½ cup vinegar (white or apple cider)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large pot, cook the chopped cabbage and sliced onion over medium heat until they begin to soften, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Step 2: Add the vinegar and sugar to the pot, stirring well to combine.
- Step 3: Reduce the heat to low and let the mixture simmer until the cabbage is tender and the flavors meld, about 15 to 20 minutes.
- Step 4: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve warm as a flavorful side dish.
Tips & Variations
- For extra depth, sauté the onion in a bit of oil or butter before adding the cabbage.
- Add a pinch of black pepper or a few caraway seeds for a subtle spice.
- Use brown sugar instead of white for a richer sweetness.
- Try using red cabbage for a colorful twist and slightly different texture.
Storage
Store leftover sweet and sour cabbage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to keep it moist.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use different types of vinegar?
Yes, white vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or even rice vinegar work well. Each will give a slightly different tang, so choose based on your preference.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
It’s best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated. Freezing can alter the texture of the cabbage, making it softer and less crisp upon thawing.
PrintSweet and Sour Cabbage Recipe
A simple and tangy Sweet and Sour Cabbage recipe that combines tender cabbage and onions simmered in a flavorful vinegar and sugar sauce, perfect as a side dish for any meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Vegetables
- 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded (about 6 cups)
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
Seasonings
- 1/4 cup vinegar (white or apple cider vinegar)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- Salt, to taste
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil (optional, for sautéing)
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Wash and shred the cabbage finely. Peel and thinly slice the onion to ensure even cooking and optimal flavor infusion.
- Sauté cabbage and onion: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat (optional). Add the sliced onion and shredded cabbage, stirring occasionally, and cook until they start to soften, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add vinegar and sugar: Pour in the vinegar and sprinkle the sugar evenly over the cabbage and onions. Stir well to combine all ingredients, distributing the flavors.
- Simmer until tender: Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the mixture simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and the sweet and sour flavors meld together.
- Season and serve: Taste the cabbage and add salt as needed. Stir once more before removing from heat. Serve warm as a delicious side dish.
Notes
- Use white or apple cider vinegar to adjust the flavor profile slightly.
- For a richer taste, sauté onions and cabbage in a tablespoon of oil before simmering.
- Adjust sugar quantity to taste for more or less sweetness.
- Can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Works well as a side dish for grilled meats or as part of a vegetarian meal.
Keywords: sweet and sour cabbage, cabbage side dish, easy vegetable recipe, vegetarian side, cabbage with vinegar and sugar

