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?

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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Leave a comment about this recipe or ask a question?

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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

What is cabbage called in Germany? ›

cabbage no pl (vegetable dish):

Kohl m.

How long should you boil cabbage before it's done? ›

How long should I boil cabbage? Shredded cabbage will be done in around 5 minutes; for wedges, it'll be done around 10. You want to cook until tender, but err on the side of caution—overcooked cabbage will turn limp and give off a less-than-pleasant smell. Tip: Make sure to drain your cabbage to prevent overcooking!

How to cook cabbage Delia Smith? ›

The secret is to shred it quite finely and cook it briefly in rapidly boiling water. What I do is pack it down quite tightly into a saucepan, sprinkle with salt, then place the pan over a high heat, pour in boiling water from the kettle, which re-boils instantly, and time it for 3-5 minutes.

How do you cook Alton Brown cabbage? ›

Directions
  1. Heat the canola oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the apple to the pan and cook until lightly browned. Increase the heat to high and add the apple juice, caraway seeds, salt, pepper and cabbage to the pan. Cover the pan and shake to toss the cabbage to coat.
  2. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 20 minutes.

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.

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 soak cabbage before cooking? ›

Crisp it up: Shredded cabbage stays perky if it's soaked in cold water. This also helps cut the pungent edge. Drain well before combining with other ingredients.

Can you overcook cabbage? ›

Overcooked cabbage is rather unappetizing as it becomes too soft and attains "that" annoying smell that dissuades many from cooking cabbage.

What does baking soda do to cabbage? ›

Baking soda does help green vegetables retain color, but it causes undesirable color changes in red cabbage—it turned blue. The science can be distilled to this: Adding baking soda to cooking water makes it slightly alkaline, which stabilizes the green color of chlorophyll.

Can you reheat braised cabbage? ›

You can definitely cook this dish ahead of time, store it in the fridge, and reheat it when you're going to serve it. You can braise the cabbage for two hours in the oven and then take it out before the final step where the cabbage gets browned, uncovered, at a higher heat.

How do you take the bitterness out of cabbage? ›

Chop and soak: Soaking chopped cabbage in cold water for about 15 minutes will leach out most of the bitter and harsh flavor compounds, while also making the cabbage crisper. This is especially vital for leaf cabbage, but also works with firmer head cabbage varieties.

How to cook cabbage Jamie Oliver? ›

Wash and drain your cabbage leaves, getting rid of any tough stalks. Add to a large pan of salted boiling water, bring back to the boil then cook on a medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes, or until tender. Drain well in a colander and leave to cool. Carefully squeeze the cabbage leaves to get rid of any excess moisture.

How do you cook Mary Berry cabbage? ›

Heat the oil and a knob of butter in a deep ovenproof saucepan. Add the onion and cabbage and fry for 3-4 minutes. Add the cider and redcurrant jelly, season, bring to the boil and boil for a few minutes. Cover the pan with a lid and place in the oven for 3-4 hours until completely tender.

Do you boil cabbage in hot or cold water? ›

Boil cabbage by cleaning and preparing it, then cooking it in hot water for just a few minutes.

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.

What is German pointy cabbage? ›

Filderkraut. Filderkraut is a variety of pointed cabbage grown in the Filder, a fertile plain with loess soils south of Stuttgart. It has large, compact heads consisting of fine leaves and is mainly used for making sauerkraut.

Is cabbage grown in Germany? ›

Many cabbage varieties—including some still commonly grown—were introduced in Germany, France, and the Low Countries. During the 16th century, German gardeners developed the savoy cabbage.

What German food means sour cabbage? ›

Sauerkraut is the German language equivalent of “sour cabbage.” In reality though, it can mean different things to different people.

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