Remove the outer leaves of the cabbage, wash, and slice it thinly.
Heat butter or oil in a large pot and sauté the onion until soft.
Add the sliced red cabbage and cook for a few minutes until it begins to soften.
Add the apples, sugar, vinegar, salt, pepper, cinnamon, and cloves if using.
Pour in the water or red wine and stir well.
Cover the pot and simmer on low heat for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and the flavours have developed.
Remove the cloves before serving.
Taste and adjust the sweetness, salt, or vinegar if needed.