Description: This recipe transforms humble cabbage into a flavorful and satisfying meal by combining it with succulent shrimp, smoky sausage, crispy bacon, and a medley of aromatic spices. It’s a quick and easy one-pan dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual weekend lunch. The combination of textures and tastes is simply irresistible!
Ingredients:
- 1 small head of green cabbage, cored and chopped (approximately 6-8 cups)
- 1/2 lb (approximately 225g) medium shrimp, peeled, deveined, and patted dry
- 1/2 lb (approximately 225g) smoked sausage, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
- 4 slices bacon, chopped into small pieces
- 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp paprika
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for added heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil or any neutral cooking oil
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients. Start by thoroughly washing and chopping the cabbage. Make sure to remove the tough core. Peel and devein the shrimp, and pat them dry with a paper towel; this helps them brown nicely and prevents them from steaming in the skillet. Slice the smoked sausage into uniform rounds. Chop the bacon and finely chop the onion and garlic. Having all your ingredients prepped and ready to go will streamline the cooking process.
Step 2: Cook the Bacon. Place a large skillet (cast iron is ideal, but any large, heavy-bottomed skillet will work) over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until it is crispy and rendered most of its fat. This process usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Using medium heat ensures that the bacon renders properly without burning.
Step 3: Remove Bacon and Cook Sausage. Once the bacon is crispy, remove it from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain. Leave the bacon fat in the skillet – this will add incredible flavor to the dish. Add the sliced smoked sausage to the skillet and cook until browned on both sides, about 4-5 minutes, turning occasionally. The sausage will release some of its own fat as it cooks, further enhancing the flavor.
Step 4: Sauté Onion and Garlic. Remove the cooked sausage from the skillet and set it aside with the bacon. In the same skillet with the bacon fat and sausage drippings, add the chopped onion and garlic. Cook, stirring frequently, until the onion is softened and translucent, and the garlic is fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
Step 5: Add Cabbage and Season. Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet. Stir to combine it with the onion, garlic, and rendered fat. Season with paprika, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Stir well to ensure the cabbage is evenly coated with the spices.
Step 6: Cook the Cabbage. Continue cooking the cabbage, stirring occasionally, until it begins to soften and wilt. This usually takes about 7-10 minutes. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent the cabbage from burning. You want the cabbage to soften but still retain some of its texture.
Step 7: Add Shrimp and Cook. Once the cabbage is partially cooked, add the shrimp to the skillet. Stir to distribute the shrimp evenly among the cabbage mixture. Cook the shrimp for 2-3 minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque, stirring occasionally. Be careful not to overcook the shrimp, as they will become rubbery.
Step 8: Combine Everything and Heat Through. Return the cooked bacon and sausage to the skillet. Stir everything together to combine all the ingredients. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, or until everything is heated through and the flavors have melded together.
Step 9: Taste and Adjust Seasoning. Before serving, taste the dish and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, paprika, or a pinch of cayenne pepper, depending on your taste preferences.
Why You Will Love This Recipe:
This recipe is a winner for so many reasons! First, it’s incredibly easy and quick to make, perfect for those busy weeknights when you need a satisfying meal on the table fast. The combination of smoky bacon and sausage with the sweetness of the shrimp creates a delightful flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting. The slightly crunchy cabbage adds a satisfying texture, while the spices provide just the right amount of warmth and depth. Plus, it’s a relatively healthy and budget-friendly option, making it a smart choice for anyone looking to eat well without breaking the bank. It’s also incredibly versatile – you can easily customize it with different types of sausage, spices, or even vegetables.
Cooking Rating:
Easy
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve this savory fried cabbage dish as a main course for lunch or dinner.
- Pair it with a side of cornbread or biscuits for a complete and comforting meal.
- Top it with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added richness and tanginess.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve it over rice or quinoa for a heartier meal.
- For a low-carb option, serve it as is or with a side of cauliflower rice.
- Consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to brighten up the flavors.
Tips:
- For extra flavor, use thick-cut bacon.
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet, as this will cause the cabbage to steam instead of fry. Cook in batches if necessary.
- If you don’t have smoked sausage, you can use Andouille sausage or any other type of sausage you prefer.
- For a vegetarian option, omit the bacon and sausage and add mushrooms or tofu instead.
- To make it spicier, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the cayenne pepper.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave before serving.
- Make sure to dry your shrimp before adding it to the pan, this will ensure it browns properly.
Prep Time: 15 minutes Cook Time: 25 minutes Total Time: 40 minutes
Nutritional Information (Approximate, per serving):
- Calories: 350-400
- Protein: 25-30g
- Sodium: 800-1000mg (varies depending on sausage and bacon)
Conclusion:
Savory Fried Cabbage with Shrimp, Sausage & Bacon is a flavorful, satisfying, and easy-to-make meal that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s a great way to enjoy humble cabbage in a whole new light, and the combination of flavors and textures is simply irresistible. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend lunch, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices and ingredients to create your own unique version of this delicious dish!
Questions and Answers about This Recipe:
Q1: Can I use frozen shrimp in this recipe?
A: Yes, you can definitely use frozen shrimp. Make sure to thaw it completely before cooking. Pat the shrimp dry with paper towels to remove any excess moisture. This will help it brown nicely in the skillet.
Q2: I don’t have smoked sausage. What can I use instead?
A: If you don’t have smoked sausage, you can substitute it with Andouille sausage, kielbasa, or even Italian sausage. The key is to choose a sausage with a good flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Q3: Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
A: Absolutely! This recipe is very versatile. You can add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms to the skillet along with the onion and garlic. They will add extra flavor and nutrients to the dish.
Q4: How can I make this recipe less salty?
A: The saltiness of the dish depends largely on the bacon and sausage you use. To reduce the sodium content, you can use low-sodium bacon and sausage. Also, be mindful of the amount of salt you add to the dish. Taste as you go and adjust accordingly.
Q5: Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can prepare the cabbage, onion, and garlic mixture ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. However, it’s best to cook the shrimp and bacon just before serving to ensure they are cooked properly.
