Vegan Braised Cabbage & Apple

🛒 Ingredients

• ½ medium head white or green cabbage (approx. 600 g), cored and thinly sliced
• 2 medium crisp apples (such as Gala, Fuji, or Granny Smith), cored and sliced into wedges
• 1 small onion, thinly sliced.. 2 tbsp olive oil or vegan butter
• 1 tsp coconut sugar or maple syrup (enhances natural sweetness)
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar.. 100 ml vegetable stock or water.. ½ tsp ground black pepper
• Pinch of nutmeg or allspice (optional, for warm depth)
• Sea salt, to taste.. Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped, for garnish

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. 1

   Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil or vegan butter in a large skillet or cast‑iron pan over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and cook gently for 4–5 minutes until soft and translucent — do not brown.

2. 2

   Cook cabbage: Add the shredded cabbage, sugar/maple syrup, salt, pepper, and spice (if using). Toss well and cook for 5 minutes until the cabbage begins to wilt slightly.

3. 3

   Braise: Pour in the apple cider vinegar and vegetable stock. Arrange the apple slices evenly over the top. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and braise for 15–20 minutes. Stir gently halfway through so the apples and cabbage cook evenly without breaking apart.

4. 4

   Finish: Remove the lid and increase heat slightly for the last 2–3 minutes to reduce any excess liquid and lightly caramelise the edges of the apples. Taste and adjust salt or vinegar if needed.

5. 5

   Serve: Transfer to a warm serving dish, scatter with fresh herbs, and serve warm alongside roasted vegetables, grains, or hearty mains.