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Star Anise & Ginger Braised Red Cabbage

Star Anise & Ginger Braised Red Cabbage is a vibrant and aromatic side dish that transforms humble cabbage into a culinary delight. Infused with the warm, fragrant notes of star anise and ginger, this dish creates a beautiful balance of sweetness and tanginess that enhances any meal. Perfect for holiday gatherings or cozy dinners, it’s not just a feast for the palate but also for the eyes with its stunning ruby-red color. Easy to prepare and endlessly adaptable, this recipe is sure to impress your guests!

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 medium red cabbage (about 2 lbs), sliced thinly
  • 2 star anise pods
  • 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 3 tablespoons brown sugar (light)
  • 1 cup vegetable broth (low-sodium)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Cabbage: Remove tough outer leaves from the cabbage, cut it into quarters, core it, and slice thinly.
  2. Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions (optional) and minced garlic; cook until soft and translucent.
  3. Add Spices: Stir in star anise pods, grated ginger, and brown sugar; cook for about a minute until fragrant.
  4. Incorporate Liquids: Add vegetable broth and apple cider vinegar; stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.
  5. Braise: Cover the pot, reduce heat to low, and braise for 30-40 minutes until tender yet holding shape. Stir occasionally.
  6. Final Touches: Adjust salt and pepper as needed. Remove star anise before serving.

Nutrition

Keywords: - For added sweetness, consider incorporating diced apples or raisins during cooking. - You can substitute brown sugar with maple syrup for a different flavor profile. - This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to five days.