Spectacular Spiced Red Cabbage

Red cabbage is coming to the end of its season here in the UK and while some people have bad memories of it from childhood being boiled or even worse overcooked in a steamer so the whole house smelt rancid! But fear not! I can assure you that it is in fact DELICIOUS and with a few special ingredients thrown in with it you can have a truly spectacular side dish.

I made this recipe last night for my family and from my youngest brother to my grandparents it was thoroughly enjoyed, which, let me tell you, is no mean feat! The wintery spices and the earthy yet sweet flavours of toasted walnuts and caramelised onions really elevate the flavour to a whole new level making this dish not only feel special midweek but also ideal for entertaining. Plus, at around 70 calories per portion it'll help you stay trim too!

Spectacular Spiced Red Cabbage

Serves 6-8

olive or rapeseed oil

1 red onion, finely chopped

2 garlic cloves, finely chopped

2 eating apples, peeled and finely chopped or grated

1/2 red cabbage (or 1 small one), quatered, cored and shredded

a pinch of cinnamon

1/2 tsp allspice

2 tsp brown sugar

100g walnuts, roughly chopped and toasted in a dry pan

40ml cider vinegar

sea salt and black pepper

Heat a tablespoon of the oil in a large saucepan or casserole dish. Add the onion and cook on a low heat for 10 minutes until soft and starting to caramelise. Add the garlic and cook for another 2 minutes. Now add the apples and cabbage, and season with salt and pepper. Sprinkle over the cinnamon, allspice and sugar and add the nuts. Stir everything together.

Mix the cider vinegar into 100ml of water and this into the pan, stir and cover then simmer for about 15-20 minutes until the red cabbage has softened slightly but still has its vibrant colour.