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 a great way to enjoy cabbage with vibrant, classic flavors that complement many meals.

Ingredients
- 1 small head of cabbage, chopped
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1/4 cup vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large pan, cook the chopped cabbage and sliced onion over medium heat until they begin to soften, about 5-7 minutes.
- Step 2: Add the vinegar, sugar, and a pinch of salt to the pan. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Step 3: Reduce the heat to low and simmer the mixture, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and the flavors are well blended, about 15-20 minutes.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of black pepper or a small chopped apple for a fruity twist.
- Use apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar for a milder, slightly fruity taste.
- If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the sugar amount or substitute with honey.
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 until warmed through.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use red cabbage instead of green cabbage?
Yes, red cabbage works well and adds a vibrant color, though it may take a bit longer to soften during cooking.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, the recipe uses naturally gluten-free ingredients and is safe for a gluten-free diet.
PrintSweet and Sour Cabbage Recipe
A simple and flavorful Sweet and Sour Cabbage recipe featuring tender cabbage and onions simmered in a tangy mixture of vinegar and sugar, offering a perfect balance of sweet and sour flavors that complement various main dishes.
- 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, chopped (about 6 cups)
- 1 medium onion, thinly sliced
Seasonings
- 1/4 cup vinegar (white or apple cider vinegar)
- 2 tablespoons sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Prepare vegetables: Chop the cabbage into bite-sized pieces and thinly slice the onion to ensure even cooking and to maximize flavor absorption.
- Cook cabbage and onion: In a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat, combine the chopped cabbage and sliced onion. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.
- Add vinegar and sugar: Pour in the vinegar and sprinkle the sugar evenly over the vegetables. Stir well to mix the flavors thoroughly.
- Simmer until tender: Reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and let the mixture simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and the flavors meld together. Season with salt and adjust to taste before serving.
Notes
- For a milder tang, reduce the amount of vinegar to 3 tablespoons.
- Add a pinch of black pepper or red pepper flakes for a subtle kick.
- Use apple cider vinegar for a fruitier flavor, or white vinegar for more sharpness.
- This dish pairs well with pork, chicken, or rice-based meals.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
Keywords: sweet and sour cabbage, cabbage side dish, easy cabbage recipe, vegetarian side dish, stovetop cabbage

