Roasted Goose with Red Cabbage

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

Savor the rich flavors of roasted goose paired beautifully with tangy red cabbage for a festive meal.

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-03T17:26:30.235Z

This roasted goose recipe is a true feast for the senses. The crispy skin and succulent meat, combined with the sweet and sour notes of red cabbage, create a memorable dining experience perfect for any holiday table.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Succulent, tender meat with crispy skin
  • A perfect balance of savory and sweet flavors
  • Ideal for holiday gatherings and special occasions

The Perfect Holiday Feast

Roasted goose is a classic dish that embodies the spirit of festive gatherings. Its rich flavor and tender texture make it a standout centerpiece for any holiday table. When paired with the tangy notes of red cabbage, it creates a delightful contrast that enhances the overall dining experience. Whether you’re celebrating Christmas, Thanksgiving, or a special family reunion, this dish will surely impress your guests.

Traditional roasted goose has been enjoyed for centuries, often reserved for special occasions. Its robust flavor profile is complemented by the sweet and sour notes of red cabbage, making it a harmonious pairing. This recipe not only brings a touch of elegance to your meal but also evokes comforting memories of family traditions around the dinner table.

Tips for Roasting Goose

When it comes to roasting goose, preparation is key. Ensure you properly clean and dry the bird before seasoning it. This helps achieve that coveted crispy skin. Additionally, basting the goose with its own juices during roasting allows for a moist interior while enhancing flavor. Don't rush the cooking process; patience is essential for achieving perfectly roasted meat.

Using a roasting rack is highly recommended as it allows air to circulate around the goose, promoting even cooking. Pairing the goose with aromatic ingredients like apples and onions not only infuses flavor but also adds moisture during the roasting process. Lastly, always allow the goose to rest after cooking to help retain its juices when carved.

Why Red Cabbage?

Red cabbage is not just a colorful addition to your plate; it brings a wealth of nutrients and benefits. Rich in vitamins C and K, it supports overall health while adding a crunchy texture to your meal. The slight sweetness from the grated apple balances out the tartness of the apple cider vinegar, creating a deliciously complex side dish that complements the rich flavors of roasted goose.

Moreover, red cabbage is incredibly versatile. You can serve it warm, as instructed in this recipe, or let it cool to create a refreshing slaw. It pairs beautifully with various meats and can elevate any dish, making it an ideal choice for your festive gatherings. Plus, its vibrant color adds a pop of visual appeal to your dining table.

Ingredients

For the Goose

  • 1 whole goose (about 10-12 pounds)
  • 2 teaspoons salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 apples, quartered
  • 1 onion, quartered
  • 2 cups chicken broth

For the Red Cabbage

  • 1 head red cabbage, thinly sliced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 apple, grated
  • 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon sugar
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Combine these ingredients for a delightful meal.

Cooking Instructions

Prepare the Goose

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Rinse the goose under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Season the inside and outside with salt and pepper.

Stuff the cavity with quartered apples and onion.

Roast the Goose

Place the goose on a rack in a roasting pan. Pour chicken broth into the bottom of the pan. Roast for about 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes, until the skin is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Prepare the Red Cabbage

While the goose is roasting, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced cabbage and grated apple, sautéing until softened. Stir in apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper.

Cook for an additional 15-20 minutes until tender.

Serve

Once the goose is done, let it rest for 15 minutes before carving. Serve with the sautéed red cabbage on the side.

Enjoy your delicious roasted goose with red cabbage!

Serving Suggestions

Roasted goose is best served with traditional sides that can stand up to its robust flavor. Consider pairing it with rich sides like creamy mashed potatoes or buttery dumplings. A rich gravy made from the drippings of the goose can enhance the dish significantly, adding moisture and depth to each bite. Don't forget to include some fresh herbs, like thyme or rosemary, for an aromatic touch.

For a complete meal, serve with a selection of roasted root vegetables such as carrots, parsnips, and potatoes. Their natural sweetness and earthy flavors complement the goose beautifully, making for a well-rounded dining experience. And, of course, a glass of red wine pairs wonderfully with this dish, enhancing its flavors even further.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store the carved goose in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The meat can be used in various dishes, from sandwiches to salads, making it a versatile option for your meals. Ensure to keep the skin separate if you prefer it crispy when reheating.

To reheat, place the goose pieces in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. Alternatively, you can warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, ensuring it does not dry out. The red cabbage can also be reheated in a skillet until warmed, maintaining its delicious flavors for your next meal.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I prepare the goose in advance?

Yes, you can season and stuff the goose the night before and refrigerate it until you're ready to roast.

→ What side dishes go well with roasted goose?

Traditional sides include dumplings, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad.

→ How do I know when the goose is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

→ Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, this recipe can also be adapted for duck or chicken if preferred.

Roasted Goose with Red Cabbage

Savor the rich flavors of roasted goose paired beautifully with tangy red cabbage for a festive meal.

Prep Time30 minutes
Cooking Duration120 minutes
Overall Time150 minutes

Created by: Emily

Recipe Type: Comfort Food

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 6 servings

What You'll Need

For the Goose

  1. 1 whole goose (about 10-12 pounds)
  2. 2 teaspoons salt
  3. 1 teaspoon black pepper
  4. 2 apples, quartered
  5. 1 onion, quartered
  6. 2 cups chicken broth

For the Red Cabbage

  1. 1 head red cabbage, thinly sliced
  2. 2 tablespoons olive oil
  3. 1 apple, grated
  4. 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
  5. 1 tablespoon sugar
  6. Salt and pepper to taste

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Rinse the goose under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Season the inside and outside with salt and pepper. Stuff the cavity with quartered apples and onion.

Step 02

Place the goose on a rack in a roasting pan. Pour chicken broth into the bottom of the pan. Roast for about 2 hours, basting every 30 minutes, until the skin is golden brown and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Step 03

While the goose is roasting, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced cabbage and grated apple, sautéing until softened. Stir in apple cider vinegar, sugar, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 15-20 minutes until tender.

Step 04

Once the goose is done, let it rest for 15 minutes before carving. Serve with the sautéed red cabbage on the side.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 700 kcal
  • Total Fat: 50g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 175mg
  • Sodium: 120mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Dietary Fiber: 5g
  • Sugars: 10g
  • Protein: 40g