Easy Pickled Cabbage Recipe

The sharp, tangy aroma of pickled cabbage fills the kitchen as you prepare this delicious, crunchy side dish. Easy Pickled Cabbage Recipe takes merely a few moments to assemble and offers a vibrant burst of flavor that elevates any meal. Its simplicity lies in the fresh ingredients combined with a quick vinegar brine, making it a perfect addition to sandwiches, salads, or a standalone garnish.

This recipe is ideal for busy weeknights when you want to add a healthy crunch to your dishes. It’s also great for meal prep, as the pickled cabbage can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for several weeks.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s a quick way to elevate your meals with a zesty flavor.
• The crunch of fresh cabbage and carrots offers a delightful texture.
• The simple vinegar brine requires minimal cooking time.
• It lasts in the fridge for 4-6 weeks, making it perfect for batch preparation.

What You’ll Need

Gather the following ingredients to make your pickled cabbage.

For the Vegetables

• 1 medium head cabbage, green or red (finely sliced or shredded)
• 1 medium carrot (grated)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced or shredded)

For the Brine

• 2 cups water
• 1½ cups vinegar of choice (I like to use apple cider vinegar)
• 2 teaspoons granulated sugar of choice (I like coconut sugar)
• 1 teaspoon salt (I like to use pink Himalayan salt)

Apple cider vinegar adds a fruity note.

Substitutions & Swaps

• Use white vinegar for a sharper taste.
• Honey or maple syrup can replace sugar.
• Red cabbage offers a vibrant color twist.
• Sea salt can replace pink Himalayan salt.

How to Make It

Follow these simple steps to create your quick pickled cabbage.

Pack the vegetables

Add the shredded cabbage, grated carrot, and minced garlic to a large jar (a quart mason jar works great!). Pack it down a little with a spoon, a tamper, or your hands. Set aside.

Prepare the brine

In a saucepan over high heat, add the water, vinegar, sugar, and salt. Bring to a boil (about 5 minutes).

Pour over vegetables

Turn off the heat and immediately pour the brine over the vegetables in the jar until covered, but reserve at least 1-inch of headspace.

Cool and store

Let the jar cool to room temperature before placing the lid on and storing it in the fridge.

How to Store It

Fridge: store for up to 4-6 weeks in a sealed jar.
Freezer: no, this recipe is not suitable for freezing.
Reheat: enjoy straight from the fridge without reheating.

Tips for Best Results

• Use fresh, crisp vegetables for the best crunch.
• Adjust the sugar and salt based on your taste preferences.
• Make sure to pour the brine while it’s hot for better infusion.
• Pack the jar tightly to maximize flavor absorption.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve it as a flavorful topping on tacos or burgers.
• Add it to salads for a crunchy texture and vibrant color.
• Enjoy it alongside grilled meats or sandwiches for a refreshing contrast.