![To make pickled red cabbage, gather these simple ingredients: - 1 medium red cabbage, thinly sliced - 1 cup apple cider vinegar - 1 cup water - 2 tablespoons sugar - 1 tablespoon salt - 1 teaspoon mustard seeds - 1 teaspoon coriander seeds - 1 teaspoon black peppercorns - 2 cloves garlic, smashed - 1 red chili, sliced (optional for heat) These ingredients create a bright and tangy flavor. The red cabbage adds crunch and color. Apple cider vinegar gives it a zesty kick. The sugar and salt balance the flavors perfectly. Mustard seeds, coriander, and peppercorns bring in warm notes. Garlic adds a savory touch, and the chili can spice things up if you like heat. This pickled red cabbage recipe is quick, easy, and delicious. You can find the full recipe at the end of this article. Enjoy your crunchy delight! Start by removing the tough outer leaves from your red cabbage. Then, cut the cabbage into quarters. Slice each quarter into thin strips. This will help the cabbage pickle evenly and absorb the brine well. In a large saucepan, combine the apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, and salt. Stir this mixture over medium heat until the sugar and salt dissolve completely. Next, add mustard seeds, coriander seeds, black peppercorns, smashed garlic, and red chili if you like it spicy. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This step releases the flavors from the spices into the brine. Now it’s time to pack the cabbage. Take a clean glass jar and tightly pack the thinly sliced cabbage inside. Pour the cooled vinegar mixture over the cabbage, making sure it is fully submerged. If you need to add more water to cover the cabbage, go ahead. Seal the jar with a lid. Let it cool at room temperature before placing it in the fridge. For the best taste, allow the cabbage to pickle for at least 24 hours. You can store it in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. For the full recipe, check out the detailed instructions provided. To keep your pickled red cabbage crunchy, follow these tips: - Use fresh cabbage: Freshness is key. Look for firm, vibrant heads. - Slice thinly: Thin strips soak up the brine better and stay crisp. - Salt properly: Salt draws out moisture. It helps keep the crunch intact. - Brine cooling: Let your brine cool before adding cabbage. This helps retain the crunch. You can boost the flavor of your pickled cabbage with these extras: - Add fruits: Try adding apple slices or orange peels for a sweet twist. - Use herbs: Fresh dill or thyme brings a new layer of taste. - Experiment with spices: Cardamom or cloves can add warmth and depth. Pickled red cabbage is versatile. Here are some great pairings: - Tacos: It adds a tangy crunch to any taco. - Sandwiches: Use it in sandwiches or burgers for a zesty bite. - Salads: Toss it into salads for added color and flavor. - Grilled meats: It complements grilled chicken or pork beautifully. For the full recipe, check out the [Full Recipe]. {{image_2}} To make your pickled red cabbage spicy, try different chili options. You can use fresh red chili, jalapeños, or even crushed red pepper flakes. Each adds its unique heat. Adjust the amount of chili based on your taste. If you love spice, go for more. If you prefer mild, stick to just a slice. You can also mix different types of chili for a fun flavor twist. For a sweet and sour twist, adjust the sugar levels and add fruits. You can use honey, maple syrup, or even agave nectar for extra sweetness. Consider adding slices of apple or pear. These fruits blend well with the cabbage and add a nice crunch. You can also throw in a bit of grated ginger for extra zing. This combination will surprise your taste buds and add a refreshing touch. Don’t stop at just red cabbage! You can add other vegetables to your pickling mix. Carrots, radishes, and cucumbers work well. Slice them thinly for quick pickling. You can mix these veggies with your cabbage or pickle them separately. Each vegetable will bring its flavors and textures. A colorful mix makes for a beautiful dish, too. Store your pickled red cabbage in a clean glass jar. Choose a jar that seals tightly. This keeps air out and helps the cabbage stay crispy. Make sure the cabbage is fully submerged in the brine. If it floats, add a weight or more brine to keep it covered. Always seal the jar well to prevent leaks. Pickled red cabbage lasts about two weeks in the fridge. Keep it chilled and check the lid is on tight. After two weeks, the flavor might change slightly. It’s best to eat it fresh for the best taste. Look for signs of spoilage before eating. If you see mold on the surface, toss it out. An off smell or slimy texture means it’s time to discard it. Fresh pickled cabbage should smell tangy and crisp. Trust your senses; they are your best guide. Pickled red cabbage needs at least 24 hours to pickle. This time helps the flavors blend and deepen. The longer it sits, the better it tastes. I often wait 48 hours for best results. After that, it will last about two weeks in the fridge. Yes, you can use other vinegars. White vinegar works well, but it has a sharper taste. Rice vinegar gives a milder flavor. Each type of vinegar will change the taste a bit. Choose based on what you enjoy! Yes, it is safe to eat pickled cabbage after a week. If stored well in the fridge, it stays fresh. Look for any signs of spoilage, like an off smell or unusual color. If it looks and smells good, it is safe to enjoy. Pickled red cabbage pairs well with many dishes. It adds crunch and tang to tacos, salads, or sandwiches. Use it as a topping for burgers or on a charcuterie board. It goes great with rich meats like pork or beef too. For detailed instructions, check out the [Full Recipe](#). In this post, we explored how to make pickled red cabbage. You learned about the ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and storage tips. We also discussed variations and serving suggestions to enhance your dishes. Pickled cabbage adds a crisp, tangy burst to meals and stays fresh for weeks. Remember to check for spoilage signs to ensure quality. With this guide, you can enjoy delicious pickled red cabbage at home. Try it with your favorite dishes and elevate your meals today.](https://tossedrecipes.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/02a0502e-8af8-4242-a5ae-df73497406fd-300x300.webp)
Pickled Red Cabbage Recipe
Elevate your meals with this zesty pickled red cabbage recipe! Packed with vibrant flavors and a hint of heat, this easy-to-follow guide will show you how to create a delicious condiment that's perfect for salads, sandwiches, and tacos. Just grab a medium red cabbage and a few simple ingredients, and you're on your way to a tasty addition that lasts up to two weeks in the fridge. Click through to discover the full recipe and bring your dishes to life!