Gordon Ramsay Red Cabbage is the kind of dish that turns skeptics into fans. It’s warm, tangy, and just sweet enough to feel special—without being fussy. Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or planning a holiday feast, Gordon Ramsay red cabbage brings a bold pop of color and flavor to the table. The red wine vinegar and apples create this sweet-and-sour balance that pairs beautifully with roasts, sausages, or turkey. Plus, it’s mostly hands-off—just toss it all in a pot and let the magic happen. Trust me, this is cabbage like you’ve never had before.
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What is Gordon Ramsay Red Cabbage?
Gordon Ramsay red cabbage is a cozy side dish where shredded red cabbage is slowly cooked with apples, onions, a splash of vinegar, and a hint of spice until it’s tender and full of flavor. It’s soft, tangy, and just slightly sweet—bringing some serious flavor without demanding your full attention in the kitchen. Inspired by classic British and German dishes, Ramsay’s version adds just the right punch of acidity and warmth. Think festive dinner table or Sunday roast vibes. It’s a side that plays well with others—roast chicken, pork, turkey, or even bratwurst.
Reasons to Try Gordon Ramsay Red Cabbage
Let’s be real: cabbage isn’t exactly glamorous. But this dish changes the game. Here’s why it deserves a spot in your recipe rotation:
- It’s affordable and feeds a crowd—hello, budget-friendly!
- Most of the work is hands-off; just simmer and let the flavors do their thing.
- That sweet and sour balance? Total flavor bomb.
- It’s versatile—serve it with sausages, roast meats, or even on sandwiches.
- Bonus: it gets better the next day, making leftovers a win.
This dish is also a great intro to Gordon Ramsay’s cooking style—bold, simple, and always flavorful. You might even want to try his braised cabbage next!
Ingredients Needed to Make Gordon Ramsay Red Cabbage
To make this unforgettable Gordon Ramsay Red Cabbage dish, you don’t need anything fancy—just a few humble ingredients that come together in the most flavorful way. Each component has a role: the cabbage brings texture and deep color, apples and onions add sweetness, while vinegar balances it all with a zing. Here’s what you’ll need to get started:
- 1 medium red cabbage – Make sure to core and finely shred it. The thinner the slices, the better it braises and absorbs all the delicious flavors.
- 1 large red onion, thinly sliced – Red onions mellow out beautifully when cooked and add a subtle sweetness that complements the cabbage.
- 2 medium apples, peeled, cored, and sliced – Go for a firm, slightly tart variety like Granny Smith or Braeburn. The apples break down during cooking, adding body and a natural sweetness to the dish.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or butter – You can go with olive oil for a lighter version or butter for a richer, silkier finish. If you love butter-based dishes, you might also enjoy Gordon’s cauliflower cheese recipe.
- ¼ cup (60 ml) red wine vinegar – This is what gives Gordon Ramsay red cabbage its signature tang. Red wine vinegar also helps the cabbage keep its gorgeous purple hue.
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar – It adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the vinegar. You can use light or dark brown sugar depending on how deep you want the flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves or allspice – A tiny bit of spice goes a long way here. These warming spices give the cabbage that comforting, festive flavor.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste – Season generously and don’t be afraid to taste and adjust near the end.
- Optional: 1 cinnamon stick or star anise – If you’re feeling a little extra, toss one in. It adds another cozy layer to the flavor profile—totally worth it.
Everything in this Gordon Ramsay red cabbage recipe is pantry-friendly and budget-wise, making it a great go-to side dish for both weeknights and holidays. If you’re looking for a full meal pairing, check out Gordon’s standing rib roast—it’s a match made in comfort food heaven.
Instructions to Make Gordon Ramsay Red Cabbage
This Gordon Ramsay red cabbage recipe is wonderfully forgiving and surprisingly easy—even if you’re not a regular in the kitchen. It’s all about layering flavors and letting the slow braise do its thing. Below, you’ll find step-by-step instructions with added details to help you nail it, just like Chef Ramsay would expect. Trust me, this will become one of your go-to side dishes—especially around the holidays.
Step 1: Heat the Oil or Butter
Begin by placing a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. These types of pans retain heat effectively, making them perfect for slow cooking. Add 3 tablespoons of olive oil or butter to the pot. If you want a richer flavor, go for butter—it pairs beautifully with the vinegar and apples in this dish.
While you’re waiting for the pan to heat up, this is a good moment to prep your onion and apples if you haven’t already. For other hearty sides that use similar cooking techniques, check out Gordon Ramsay’s shepherd’s pie recipe.
Step 2: Sauté the Red Onions
Once the oil is shimmering (or the butter is melted and lightly foaming), toss in your sliced red onion. Sauté for about 4 to 5 minutes. You’re aiming for soft, slightly caramelized onions—not browned or crispy. Stir occasionally so nothing sticks. The onions create the flavor base for the dish, giving it depth and sweetness.
Step 3: Add Apples, Sugar, and Spices
Next, stir in the sliced apples, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and ¼ teaspoon of ground cloves or allspice. Add a pinch of salt and a few twists of freshly ground black pepper. Let everything cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the apples start to soften and smell amazing. If you’re feeling adventurous, this is the time to add an optional cinnamon stick or star anise for that extra layer of cozy flavor.
This sweet and spiced combo is what gives Gordon Ramsay red cabbage its unforgettable taste—bold yet balanced.
Step 4: Add the Shredded Cabbage
Now it’s time for the star of the show. Add the shredded red cabbage into the pot, gently folding it into the apple and onion mixture. This might seem like a lot of cabbage at first, but it will cook down significantly. Make sure every strand gets coated in that delicious base.
Want to balance your meal with a protein? Pair this dish with Gordon’s pan-fried salmon for a healthy, vibrant dinner.
Step 5: Pour in the Vinegar and Stir
Once everything’s combined, pour in ¼ cup of red wine vinegar. This is what gives the cabbage its signature tang and helps retain that stunning purple color. Stir thoroughly, scraping the bottom of the pot to loosen any caramelized bits—that’s where the flavor lives.
Let the vinegar sizzle for a minute to mellow its sharpness before moving to the next step.
Step 6: Cover and Braise Gently
Reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid. Let it simmer gently for 35 to 45 minutes, checking and stirring occasionally. You want the cabbage to be tender but not mushy, and all the flavors should be beautifully melded.
At the 30-minute mark, give it a taste. If you feel it needs more balance, add a dash more vinegar, sugar, or salt to suit your taste.
If you enjoy slow-cooked dishes like this one, you’ll also love Gordon Ramsay’s butternut squash risotto—a fall favorite that brings cozy to another level.
Step 7: Final Taste and Serve
Once your Gordon Ramsay red cabbage is fork-tender and glossy, turn off the heat and remove any whole spices (like cinnamon sticks or star anise) if used. Give it one final taste and season if needed.
Serve warm, either as a holiday side dish or with your favorite roast or sausage. Leftovers? Don’t worry—they taste even better the next day.
What to Serve with Gordon Ramsay Red Cabbage
Here’s where Gordon Ramsay red cabbage really earns its keep—it’s one of those sides that elevates almost any main course. The sweet and tangy flavor cuts through rich meats like roast pork, duck, or beef like a dream. It’s also the perfect sidekick to holiday classics like turkey or glazed ham. Want something casual? Try it with grilled sausages or even tucked inside a sandwich with leftover roast. For a complete dinner experience, pair this dish with Gordon Ramsay’s standing rib roast or his pan-fried salmon for a lighter but satisfying combo. However you plate it, Gordon Ramsay red cabbage brings bold flavor and balance.
Key Tips for Making Gordon Ramsay Red Cabbage
Cooking Gordon Ramsay red cabbage doesn’t require a culinary degree—just a few smart moves. First, slice the cabbage thinly so it cooks evenly. Use a heavy-bottomed pot for steady heat, and don’t skip the red wine vinegar; it’s what gives the dish its signature brightness. Brown sugar and apples balance out the acidity, while a pinch of warm spice like cloves or cinnamon creates a cozy depth. Stir occasionally during braising to keep it from sticking. Taste as you go—you’re the chef here. Want to add richness? Try butter instead of oil. For more helpful kitchen tips, see Gordon’s mayonnaise recipe—it’s a game-changer for sauces and dressings.
Storage and Reheating Tips for Gordon Ramsay Red Cabbage
One of the best things about Gordon Ramsay red cabbage? It tastes even better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm it in a saucepan over low heat with a splash of water or a drizzle of olive oil to bring back that silky texture. You can also microwave it—just cover with a damp paper towel and heat in 30-second bursts. Want to freeze it? Go for it. Let it cool completely, portion it out, and freeze for up to 2 months. Defrost in the fridge overnight and reheat as usual. Still delicious, still easy.
Final Thoughts
Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or just Tuesday night dinner, Gordon Ramsay red cabbage is one of those side dishes that never fails. It’s comforting, flavorful, and shockingly easy to make. You don’t need special tools or fancy ingredients—just a big pot, a few pantry staples, and about an hour. If you’ve got leftover cabbage or apples lying around, this is the best way to use them. Once you’ve tried it, don’t be surprised if it becomes a staple in your rotation. Looking for more holiday-worthy sides? Try Ramsay’s apple crumble or this cozy butternut squash risotto next!
Visit our Pinterest for regular slow cooker recipe updates, or join our Facebook discussions where cooking fans exchange their favorite hearty meal ideas.
FAQs
How does Jamie Oliver cook red cabbage?
Jamie Oliver’s red cabbage often leans on similar cozy flavors—think apples, balsamic vinegar, and aromatic spices like cinnamon and cloves. His versions are typically oven-roasted or slow-braised, much like Gordon Ramsay red cabbage, but may use slightly different sweeteners like honey or citrus zest. Both chefs love elevating humble cabbage into something celebration-worthy.
What is Gordon Ramsay’s most famous recipe?
That’s a tough one, but Beef Wellington is arguably Gordon Ramsay’s crown jewel. It’s rich, flaky, and seriously impressive. That said, his Gordon Ramsay red cabbage makes an amazing sidekick to it—sweet, tangy, and the perfect contrast to buttery puff pastry and savory beef. You can try his full Beef Wellington recipe here.
How do you take the bitterness out of red cabbage?
Bitterness in red cabbage can come from overcooking or lack of balance. The secret behind Gordon Ramsay red cabbage is pairing the cabbage with apples, sugar, and acidic vinegar—all of which mellow the bitterness beautifully. Don’t skip the vinegar—it’s the magic that transforms the dish.
How to make the perfect red cabbage?
Start with thinly sliced cabbage, balance sweet (like apples and sugar) with sour (vinegar), and cook it low and slow. Stir occasionally and taste often. Adding warming spices like cloves or cinnamon makes a big difference. Following the method for Gordon Ramsay red cabbage is a foolproof way to get it just right every time.
Gordon Ramsay Red Cabbage Recipe
This Gordon Ramsay red cabbage recipe is a comforting, slow-braised side dish packed with bold flavor and holiday charm. Made with thinly sliced red cabbage, onions, tart apples, tangy red wine vinegar, and warming spices, it delivers the perfect sweet-and-sour balance. It’s a simple one-pot dish that pairs beautifully with roasts, sausages, or festive dinners—plus it tastes even better the next day!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Total Time: 55 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Braising
- Cuisine: British
Ingredients
- 1 medium head of red cabbage, finely sliced and cored
- 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
- 2 apples (Granny Smith or similar), peeled, cored, and thinly sliced
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil or unsalted butter
- ¼ cup (60 ml) red wine vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- ¼ teaspoon ground cloves or allspice
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Optional: 1 cinnamon stick or 1 star anise for added festive warmth
Instructions
- Warm the Fat: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat.
- Cook the Onion: Add in the red onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes, until soft and beginning to brown slightly.
- Add Fruit and Spice: Stir in the apple slices, brown sugar, and cloves or allspice. Add a pinch of salt and pepper. Let it cook for 2–3 minutes to release the flavors.
- Stir in the Cabbage: Add the shredded cabbage to the pot. Mix well to coat all the ingredients.
- Add Vinegar: Pour in the red wine vinegar and stir everything together, scraping any bits off the bottom of the pan.
- Simmer Gently: Lower the heat, cover with a lid, and cook for 35–45 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cabbage should be tender and deeply colored.
- Taste & Adjust: Check seasoning before serving. Add more salt, pepper, or vinegar to taste.
Notes
- This dish stores beautifully and tastes even better the next day.
- Pairs well with pork, sausages, roasted turkey, or Gordon Ramsay’s standing rib roast.
- Want it richer? Use butter. Want it lighter? Stick with olive oil.
- For a spicier twist, try adding a bay leaf or a dash of nutmeg.
