Braised Red Cabbage, Apples, and Sausage

We’re edging into Indian summer, and it’s time to begin thinking of recipes that feature the best of the season…apples in particular. Here’s a yummy recipe that’s just right!

Braised Red Cabbage, Apples, and Sausage

4 Tablespoons rendered bacon fat
2 Tablespoons sugar
1 small yellow onion, chopped
4 cups shredded red cabbage
2 tart red apples, such as Jonathan, cored and sliced thin but not peeled
2 Tablespoons cider vinegar
1/2 teaspoon caraway seeds
1 to 1 1/2 pounds German or Polish style smoked sausage links, or bratwursts
1 pound new potatoes
Salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
1 cup beer

Melt the bacon fat in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sugar and cook, stirring often, until the sugar browns, about 4 minutes. Reduce the heat to medium low, add the onion, and sauté it until it is golden, about 5 minutes. Add the cabbage, apples, vinegar, and caraway seeds, and stir to blend.

Place the sausage links and the potatoes on top of the cabbage mixture. Season with salt and pepper and pour the beer over all. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium high heat, reduce the heat, and simmer, covered, for 45 minutes. Taste, adjust the seasonings, and serve hot. Serves 4 to 6.

You can see other great recipes at the current edition of the Carnival of the Recipes, hosted at Busy Family Meals.