Get to Know Oktoberfest Food: Rotkohl

Posted on September 13, 2016

This years Oktoberfest features a menu prepared and designed by Old World Catering of Randallstown, they are an authentic European deli and feature German and European Beers & Wines, Kinder and Haribo Chocolates, authentic Sauerkraut and Spatzle, and so much more.  One of their most popular food items at Oktoberfest is the Rotkohl, a German sidedish that means “Red Cabbage.”

What is Rotkohl?

This healthy vegetable side dish is made from red cabbage and is usually paired with fish and potatoes.  It is often served with lunch or dinner and is a traditional part of German food culture, you’ll find it in just about every German restaurant.  It is an old world dish that has stood the test of time, which is basically how great food works – it never goes away.

How it’s prepared?

This side dish that could be mistaken for a coleslaw, until you taste the difference, is flavorful, sweet, and has a bite!

So Here is how you do it!

1. Finely Chop your head of red cabbage after removing any damaged outer leaves,
2. Finely chop one large white or yellow onion
3. In a Dutch Oven over medium heat melt 1/4 cup of butter and cook cabbage for 5-8 minutes
4. Dice a granny smith apple and add to Dutch Oven along with 1/2 cup of vegetable broth, 1 bay leaf, 3 juniper berries, 2-3 tablespoons of red wine vinegar and a teaspoon each of salt and sugar
5. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low and simmer for 2 hours while stirring occasionally
6. Add more broth if desired
7. Combine 1 tablespoon of flour and 2 tablespoons water in a bowl and, once mixed well, add to dutch oven and stir well
8. Add more salt, sugar, or vinegar to taste
9. Serve with lunch or dinner!

While attending the Carroll County Oktoberfest, don’t forget to sample all that Old World German Cooking has to offer. For more information on the full menu, click here.

Categories: 2016

Tags: food, german food