Instant Pot German Red Cabbage with Apple

German Red Cabbage (Rotkohl) or braised red cabbage is a traditional side dish in German households that was common during the Great Depression.  This classic German dish is made in a non-traditional method but in the Instant Pot (electric pressure cooker).  Your family will love this Instant Pot German red cabbage as an easy side dish that is rich in flavor and easy to prep. 

this …

This Instant Pot German red cabbage and apple recipe transforms a classic dish into something quick and irresistible. You’ll savor the braised cabbage infused with apple cider vinegar and a hint of sweetness in every bite.

All you need for this German red cabbage recipe is to start with a whole head of red cabbage, yellow onion or red onion, and apple, and at the end, add apple cider vinegar. A simple dump-and-go Easy Instant Pot recipe that will become a family favorite.

Add a little salt and black pepper when serving, and you have an easy way to get your veggies with little work. A delicious braised cabbage that is easy to make and does not take hours to simmer on the stove when cooking this dish as my Grandmother used to make.

This Instant Pot recipe for German red cabbage recipe is a game-changer. It’s an easy Instant Pot dish that blends a traditional recipe with modern convenience. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just for yourself, this braised cabbage delivers every time. Store leftovers in an airtight container—they taste even better the next day!

What I Love About Instant Pot Red Cabbage with Apple:

I first tried this easy side dish when I wanted to make a beef dinner and I remembered my Grandmother making red cabbage recipes for Sunday dinner. I loved the rich red color and the delicate, savory, and sweet flavor.

But I also remember she had to start early to make sure the cabbage cooked on the stove top for at least 45 minutes. German red cabbage would simmer on medium and had to be started right away when making dinner.  

But now, with my easy instant pot method, this perfect side dish is my go-to for a healthy recipe that doesn’t skimp on flavor or comfort. Your electric pressure cooker makes this traditional recipe a breeze. Get ready for a perfect side dish that has a beautiful red touch of color on your plate and is healthy and delicious!

I served this side dish with a friend’s Christmas dinner,r and it was a hit. The vibrant color and tangy taste made the food pop!

This Instant Pot sweet and savory dish steals the show every time. Here’s why you’ll love it, too:

• Fast. Cooking time is just minutes—no slow cooker is needed.
• Flavorful. The apple cider vinegar and red apples balance the braised red cabbage perfectly.
• Healthy. Packed with nutrients, it’s one of those healthy recipes you feel good about.
• Versatile. It’s a perfect side dish for any meal or a standalone treat.

Tools Needed for Instant Pot German Red Cabbage: 

You don’t need a whole kitchen full of stuff to make this easy dish—just grab a couple of everyday items and you’re good to go!

• Instant Pot (your trusty electric pressure cooker)
• Sharp knife (for shredding the top of the cabbage)
• Slotted spoon (to scoop it out without excess liquid)
• Serving dish (to show off your creation)

Ingredients Needed:

• 1 medium head of red cabbage (shredded with a sharp knife)
• 1 red apple (cored and sliced)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 yellow onion (or red onion, diced)
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup of water (just enough liquid, not too much liquid)

How to Make Instant Pot Red Cabbage:

1. Add the olive oil and the water to the bottom of the Instant Pot.
2. Layer onto the sliced red cabbage, onion, and apple.
3. Toss together
4. Cook on high pressure for 6 minutes with a 10-minute natural release.
5. After the 10-minute release, open the Instant Pot and add the apple cider vinegar, and mix.
6. Serve hot or cold.

More Instant Pot Recipes You Will Love:

Print