Sweet and Sour Red Cabbage

A favorite German accompaniment for many main course meals, this simple fare is delicious and easy to make.  Serves about 6.

Ingredients:

• 1/4 cup (1/2 stick) butter
• 1, 2-pound red cabbage, shredded (about 12 cups)
• 1/3 cup (~6-Tablespoons) brown sugar
• 2/3 cup balsamic vinegar (or red wine, or cider vinegar)
• salt & pepper as needed to taste

Instructions:

Melt the butter in a large pot over medium-heat.  Add the finely sliced cabbage and sauté until just slightly wilted...about 5-minutes.  Add brown sugar and toss gently to coat evenly. 

Add vinegar and reduce the heat to medium-low.  Cover.  Simmer until cabbage is just tender, about 25-30 minutes, stirring often. Season to taste with salt and pepper just before serving.

Alternatively, use 6-8 slices worth of bacon fat in place of the butter.  Crumble the bacon over the cabbage when serving.  Take care to not over salt when using bacon.