Fried Cabbage with Bacon Onion and Garlic

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

• Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat.
• Add the chopped bacon and cook until it’s crispy and browned, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure the bacon cooks evenly.
• Once the bacon is done, remove it from the skillet using a slotted spoon, leaving the bacon fat in the pan. Set the cooked bacon aside on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 2: Sauté the Onions and Garlic

• In the same skillet with the bacon grease, add the sliced onion and sauté over medium heat for about 5 minutes, or until the onions begin to soften and turn translucent.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be sure not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

Step 3: Add the Cabbage

• Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet. Toss the cabbage in the bacon grease, onions, and garlic to coat it evenly.
• Cook the cabbage for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp. You can cook it longer if you prefer a softer texture, but be careful not to overcook it.

Step 4: Season and Add Bacon

• Season the cabbage with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). If you want a bit of extra moisture, add a splash of chicken broth to the pan, and let it simmer for a few minutes until it reduces slightly.
• Once the cabbage is tender and seasoned to your liking, stir the cooked bacon back into the dish, reserving a small amount for garnish if desired.

Step 5: Serve

• Serve the fried cabbage hot, garnished with the reserved bacon bits for extra crunch and flavor.
• This dish is perfect as a side to almost any main course, from grilled meats and roasted chicken to a hearty steak or fish.

Tips for Perfect Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic

1. Adjust the Seasoning: Feel free to adjust the salt and pepper to your taste. You can also experiment with adding garlic powder, onion powder, or thyme for extra flavor.
2. Use Bacon Grease for Extra Flavor: If you want even more bacon flavor, use bacon grease in place of olive oil. It adds a smoky richness to the cabbage that’s irresistible.
3. Add Extra Vegetables: If you want to make this dish even heartier, try adding some additional vegetables, such as carrots, bell peppers, or even a handful of spinach towards the end of cooking.
4. Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to give the dish a little heat. This works especially well if you’re serving it alongside a milder main dish.
5. Serve as a Main Dish: If you’re looking for a meatless main dish, this fried cabbage can stand on its own. Serve it with a side of rice or potatoes for a satisfying vegetarian meal.

Why This Recipe Works

Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic works because it combines the hearty, mild flavor of cabbage with the rich, savory notes of crispy bacon and the sweetness of sautéed onions. The garlic adds an aromatic punch, and the seasonings tie everything together perfectly.

The dish is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights when you’re craving something flavorful but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile—this side dish can accompany any meat, making it a fantastic addition to your dinner rotation.

Conclusion

Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic is a flavorful, simple, and budget-friendly side dish that will quickly become a family favorite. It’s the perfect balance of savory, smoky, and sweet, all wrapped up in a comforting vegetable base. Whether you’re serving it with a weeknight meal or at a family gathering, this dish is sure to be a hit.

So, the next time you’re looking for a side dish that’s quick to make but full of flavor, give this fried cabbage recipe a try. It’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!