Mary Berry’s Festive Red Cabbage Recipe: A Holiday Must-Have!

As we come together to celebrate the holiday season, I am delighted to share with you a treasured recipe that has graced my Christmas feasts for years. In the spirit of togetherness and tradition that defines this time of year, let’s embark on a culinary journey with Mary Berry’s Red Cabbage. As we adapt to changing times and generations, this recipe remains a beloved constant, ready to bring comfort and joy to your festive table.

Mary Berry Red Cabbage Recipe Overview:

This Mary Berry Red Cabbage recipe is a true classic, with its sweet and tangy flavors perfectly accompanying your Christmas turkey or goose. It yields enough to serve 8-10 hungry guests and requires just a bit of patience. But the result is well worth it. Prepare for a total cooking time of approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes and watch as this red cabbage transforms into a festive masterpiece.

Ingredients:

  1. 1 large (about 1.5 kg) red cabbage, finely shredded
  2. 50g caster sugar
  3. 600g cooking apples, peeled and roughly chopped
  4. 2 tbsp white wine vinegar
  5. Salt taste wise
  6. Freshly ground black pepper to taste
  7. 3 tbsp redcurrant jelly
  8. 70g butter

Instructions:

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat your oven to 150°C (130°C fan/gas mark 2). Rinse the finely shredded red cabbage in a colander and let it drain.
  2. Combine Ingredients: In your ovenproof casserole dish, layer the shredded cabbage and chopped apples. Sprinkle the caster sugar evenly over the top. Now season with a pinch of salt and plenty of black pepper and drizzle the white wine vinegar all over it . Dot the mixture with butter and add spoonful of redcurrant jelly.
  3. Cover and Bake: Place a lid on your casserole dish and bake in the preheated oven for about 2 hours. Remember to stir the mixture occasionally to ensure all the flavors meld together .
  4. Uncover and Finish: After 2 hours, remove the lid and continue to bake uncovered for an additional 30 minutes.It will allow the cabbage to caramelize and turn tender.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Serve your Mary Berry Red Cabbage hot as a delightful side dish to your Christmas feast. It pairs wonderfully with roasted meats and poultry.

Pairing Suggestion:

When serving Mary Berry’s Red Cabbage, you’ll want to complement its sweet and tangy flavors with dishes that enhance your festive meal experience. Here are some Options to consider:

Roast Turkey or Goose: The classic pairing! Mary Berry’s Red Cabbage beautifully complements the rich and savory flavors of roast turkey or goose. It adds a vibrant, sweet-tart contrast to the main dish.

Honey-Glazed Ham: The sweetness of a honey-glazed ham harmonizes wonderfully with the tangy notes of the red cabbage. 

Prime Rib Roast: For those who prefer beef, a succulent prime rib roast is an excellent choice. The bold flavors of the meat are balanced by the sweetness of the cabbage.

Vegetarian Nut Roast: If you’re catering to vegetarians or vegans, a hearty nut roast pairs beautifully with Mary Berry’s Red Cabbage. The earthy, nutty flavors complement the dish’s sweet and tangy profile.

Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes make a comforting side to the red cabbage. The smooth texture of the potatoes pairs well with the cabbage’s crispiness.

For pairings seek to balance flavors, textures and temperatures to create a harmonious and memorable dining experience. Enjoy your festive feast!

Nutritional Value (per serving):

Calories: 175

Carbohydrates: 31g

Fat: 6g

Protein: 2g

Fiber: 5g

FAQs:

Can I make this recipe ahead of time? 

Absolutely! In fact, it’s even better when prepared a day in advance and reheated before serving.

Can I substitute redcurrant jelly with something else? 

You can use cranberry sauce or raspberry jam as an alternative for a similar sweet-tart flavor.

How to store the leftovers ? 

Store any leftover Mary Berry Red Cabbage in a container. Remember to finish consuming it within 3 days.

Can I freeze this dish? 

You can freeze it. It will be consumable for up to 3 months. Remember to defrost and reheat before serving.

What can I serve this with besides turkey or goose? 

This red cabbage pairs wonderfully with roast pork, ham, or even vegetarian nut roasts.

Conclusion

As Christmas traditions continue to evolve and family dynamics shift, this Mary Berry Red Cabbage remains a steadfast presence on my holiday table. Its rich flavors and vibrant colors are a testament to the enduring magic of festive cooking. Whether you’re hosting a grand celebration or enjoying an intimate gathering, may this recipe add warmth and flavor to your cherished moments together. Merry Christmas and happy cooking!

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