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How to Make Fried Cabbage with Bacon and Onion
Step 1: Cook the Bacon
Start by placing the chopped bacon into a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Cook the bacon, stirring occasionally, until it becomes crispy and golden brown—about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
Be sure to leave the bacon grease in the pan, as this will be the base for cooking the cabbage and onions, adding extra flavor to the dish.
Step 2: Sauté the Onions
In the same skillet with the bacon grease, add the thinly sliced onion. Sauté the onions over medium heat for about 4-5 minutes, or until they become soft and translucent. You want the onions to start caramelizing slightly, adding sweetness to the dish.
If you’re using garlic, add the minced garlic during the last minute of sautéing to avoid burning it. Stir constantly and let the garlic become fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Cabbage
Add the chopped or shredded cabbage to the skillet with the onions. Stir to combine, ensuring the cabbage is coated with the flavorful bacon grease and onion mixture. Sauté the cabbage for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The cabbage should begin to soften and wilt down.
If you prefer your cabbage a little more tender, you can cover the skillet with a lid and cook it for an additional 5 minutes, allowing the cabbage to steam slightly.
Step 4: Season and Add Liquids
Season the cabbage mixture with salt and pepper to taste. If you’d like to add some extra flavor, now’s the time to sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat, or drizzle in about 1 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar to add a tangy brightness that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the bacon.
Add the chicken broth (or water) to the skillet. This will help the cabbage soften and cook evenly. Stir everything together, then cover the skillet and let the cabbage cook for about 5 more minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s tender and well-flavored.
Step 5: Add the Bacon
Once the cabbage has softened and absorbed all the delicious flavors, stir the crispy bacon back into the skillet. Give everything one final toss to evenly distribute the bacon throughout the cabbage.
Let the cabbage and bacon cook together for an additional minute or so to ensure everything is hot and the bacon stays crispy.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Once your fried cabbage with bacon and onion is ready, transfer it to a serving dish. Serve it hot as a side dish with your favorite comfort foods or hearty meals.
Tips for Perfect Fried Cabbage with Bacon and Onion
- Adjust the Texture: If you prefer your cabbage to have more crunch, cook it for a shorter period of time. For softer cabbage, cook it longer and let it wilt more.
- Customize the Seasonings: Feel free to adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. You can add a dash of paprika, smoked paprika, or even a little garlic powder to enhance the flavors.
- Add Some Sweetness: If you like a hint of sweetness in your fried cabbage, consider adding a tablespoon of brown sugar or maple syrup to balance out the flavors. This is especially delicious when paired with the smoky bacon.
- Make it Spicy: For those who love heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or even add some finely diced jalapeños for an extra spicy kick.
- Use Leftover Bacon Grease: If you have leftover bacon grease from cooking other dishes, save it and use it for this recipe for even more flavor. Just be sure not to use too much, as it can be quite rich.
- Add Other Veggies: You can make the dish even heartier by adding other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms. These will soak up the delicious bacon flavor while adding extra texture and color.
Serving Suggestions
Fried Cabbage with Bacon and Onion is a great side dish for almost any main course. It’s especially delicious with:
- Pork chops or fried chicken
- Grilled steaks or barbecue ribs
- Roasted or baked chicken
- Cornbread or biscuits on the side to soak up any remaining bacon grease and juices
- Mashed potatoes or sweet potatoes for a comforting Southern meal
Final Thoughts
Fried Cabbage with Bacon and Onion is a true Southern classic that offers both comfort and flavor in every bite. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a dish that’s rich, savory, and satisfying. The bacon adds a smoky, crispy element, while the cabbage becomes tender and full of flavor from the caramelized onions and seasonings.
Whether you’re looking for a side dish to pair with a weeknight dinner or something to serve at a family gathering, this recipe is sure to impress. So, grab a head of cabbage, some bacon, and get cooking—this dish will quickly become a favorite in your culinary rotation!
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