Introduction:
Bacon, Onion, and Garlic Fried Cabbage is a savory, comforting dish that combines the rich, smoky flavor of bacon with the sweetness of sautéed onions and the aromatic depth of garlic.
The cabbage, tender yet slightly crispy, brings everything together in a simple yet flavorful side dish.
It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or as a side to complement any main course.
Ingredients:
1 medium head of cabbage, shredded
6 slices of bacon, chopped
1 large onion, thinly sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, if needed for extra sautéing)
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for added flavor)
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for some heat)
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, to add a touch of tang)
Instructions:
Cook the bacon: In a large skillet or frying pan, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy.
Remove the bacon pieces and set them aside, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet.
Sauté the onions: In the same skillet, add the sliced onions to the bacon fat and cook over medium heat until softened, about 4-5 minutes.
Add the garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
Cook the cabbage: Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet.
Toss to coat the cabbage in the bacon fat, onions, and garlic. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage becomes tender and slightly caramelized, about 10-15 minutes.
Season and serve: Season with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes, if using.
Stir in the crispy bacon bits and drizzle with apple cider vinegar, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Description:
This Bacon, Onion, and Garlic Fried Cabbage dish is a perfect combination of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors.
The bacon provides an irresistible crunch and depth, while the onions and garlic enhance the natural sweetness of the cabbage.
The cabbage itself retains just enough texture to contrast with the tender, flavorful ingredients.
It’s a simple, yet satisfying dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of proteins, from grilled meats to hearty stews.
Tips:
Use a heavy skillet for even cooking, as it helps distribute heat better and allows the cabbage to caramelize properly.
Adjust the seasonings: Feel free to add other spices like thyme, paprika, or a squeeze of lemon juice for a bit of brightness.
Leftovers: This dish keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days and can be reheated easily in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Add other vegetables: If you like, you can mix in other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or even mushrooms for more variety.
Variations:
Vegan version: Substitute the bacon with smoked tempeh or vegan bacon for a plant-based option.
Spicy version: For a spicier kick, add some chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce during the cooking process.
With cheese: Top the finished dish with some shredded cheddar or parmesan for an extra layer of flavor.
Corrections
If your cabbage is too tough, you may want to cook it for a little longer to achieve the desired softness.
If the cabbage is releasing too much water, you can increase the heat to allow some of the moisture to evaporate, making it more crispy.
Enjoy!
This dish is great on its own or as a side to complement meats, grilled fish, or even a hearty soup. Enjoy the comforting, savory flavors of bacon, garlic, and cabbage in this simple yet delicious recipe!