Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Ingredients

　　1 medium head red cabbage (about 2 1/2 pounds)

　　2 tablespoons vegetable oil

　　3 tablespoons sugar

　　1 cup dry red wine

　　1/4 cup red-wine vinegar

　　1 bay leaf

　　a 4-inch cinnamon stick

　　2 whole cloves

　　Quarter and core cabbage and cut into 1/4-inch-thick shreds. In a 7- to 8-quart heavy kettle cook cabbage in oil over moderate heat, stirring occasionally, 5 minutes. Stir in remaining ingredients and simmer, covered, stirring occasionally, until cabbage is tender, about 20 minutes. Discard cloves and, if desired, bay leaf and cinnamon stick. Season cabbage with salt and pepper. Cabbage may be made 3 days ahead and chilled, covered.