Fried cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic is a delightful dish that combines simple ingredients to create a hearty and flavorful meal. This recipe transforms humble cabbage into a savory delight, perfect for a side dish or a quick dinner. The combination of crispy bacon, sweet onions, and fragrant garlic infuses the cabbage with incredible flavor, making it a favorite among family and friends.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this recipe for its simplicity and depth of flavor. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also uses minimal ingredients that you likely have on hand. The process of frying the cabbage caramelizes its natural sugars, while the bacon adds a smoky richness, and the garlic lends a fragrant aroma. This dish is perfect as a comforting addition to any meal or as a stand-alone dish for lunch or dinner. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet without sacrificing taste!
Introduction
Fried cabbage has long been a staple of comfort food in many households. It embodies the essence of home cooking: nourishing, satisfying, and full of flavor. Many people may recall their grandmothers lovingly preparing a batch of sautéed cabbage, and as we modernize our plates, this classic dish deserves a spot on our dinner tables. In this recipe, we’ll explore how to prepare fried cabbage with the addition of crispy bacon, sweet onion, and aromatic garlic.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of cabbage (chopped into large pieces)
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 5 slices of bacon (chopped)
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup water (or as needed)
- 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, for added sweetness)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Cabbage
Begin by cutting the cabbage into quarters. Remove any wilted or discolored outer leaves and cut out the core from the cabbage quarters. Next, chop the cabbage into large, 1-inch dice to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon and Onions
In a large 4-quart pan or skillet, cook the chopped bacon and onion over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the bacon becomes crispy and the onion wilts, which should take about 5-7 minutes. You’re looking for the bacon to render its fat and the onion to become translucent.
Step 3: Drain the Bacon and Onion
Using a slotted spoon, remove the bacon and onion from the pan, placing them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess fat. There should be approximately 1/2 cup of bacon drippings remaining in the pan, which will serve as the flavorful base for cooking the cabbage.
Step 4: Sauté the Cabbage
Add the prepared cabbage to the skillet with the bacon drippings. Cook the cabbage without stirring for about 3 minutes until it begins to brown. Allowing the cabbage to sit undisturbed will contribute to the development of a nice caramelized flavor.
Step 5: Season and Finish Cooking
After the cabbage has started to brown, add 1 cup of water, the sugar (if using), plus salt and pepper to taste. Stir gently to combine, then cover the pan with a lid. Allow the cabbage to simmer over medium heat for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally until the cabbage is tender but still has a slight crunch. Finally, crumble the cooked bacon back into the pan, combine well, and serve hot.
COOKING Rating:
This dish is truly straightforward to make, ideal for beginner cooks but flavorful enough to impress any guest.
Serving Suggestions:
Fried cabbage pairs beautifully with a variety of main dishes, such as grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even vegetarian options like stuffed peppers. Consider serving it alongside cornbread or over a bed of rice for a filling meal. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips:
- Choose the Right Cabbage: Green cabbage works well for this recipe, but feel free to experiment with savoy or napa cabbage for varied flavors and textures.
- Adjust the Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to tweak the seasonings according to your taste. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick.
- Storage: Leftover fried cabbage can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet on the stovetop over low heat.
- Add More Vegetables: For extra nutrients and flavor, consider adding sliced bell peppers, carrots, or even some kale to the mix.
- Make It a Meal: You can turn this side dish into a main course by adding cooked sausage or chicken during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information:
- Calories: Approximately 215 per serving
- Protein: 8 grams
- Sodium: 320 mg (may vary based on bacon and added salt)
Conclusion
Fried cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic is an easy, delicious recipe that celebrates the richness of simple ingredients. This dish not only offers great taste but also embraces comfort food in its most loved form. Whether you’re serving it at a family gathering or enjoying it as a quick weeknight meal, you’ll find that it brings warmth and satisfaction to the table. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s get frying!
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use a different type of fat instead of bacon drippings?
Yes! You can use olive oil, butter, or even vegetable oil as an alternative for a lighter version.
2. How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
You can simply omit the bacon and add a tablespoon of olive oil for frying, and add other vegetables for depth of flavor.
3. Can I freeze fried cabbage?
While you can freeze it, the texture may change once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh. If you plan to freeze it, allow it to cool completely and store it in an airtight container.
4. What can I serve with fried cabbage?
Fried cabbage pairs well with any protein, such as pork chops, fried chicken, or grilled sausages. It can also be served alongside starches like rice, potatoes, or cornbread.
5. How do I know when the cabbage is done?
Cabbage is done when it is tender but still maintains a slight crunch. You can test it by tasting a piece; it should not be mushy.
With its rich blend of flavors and textures, this fried cabbage recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite in your home! Enjoy!
