Fried cabbage with bacon and onion is a classic comfort dish that combines the savory, crispy goodness of bacon with the tender, flavorful cabbage and a hint of onion and garlic. This dish is not only quick and easy to make, but it’s also packed with rich flavors that make it a perfect side or even a main dish when served with some hearty bread or potatoes.
Ingredients:
- 1 large head of cabbage, chopped
Fresh cabbage works best for this recipe, giving you the perfect texture and flavor. - 1 large onion, chopped
The onion adds sweetness and depth of flavor, complementing the cabbage and bacon beautifully. - 2 teaspoons minced garlic
Garlic brings a fragrant, savory note to the dish that pairs well with the bacon. - 5 slices of bacon, chopped
Bacon provides a smoky, salty flavor that infuses the entire dish, making it irresistibly delicious. - ½ teaspoon onion powder
Onion powder enhances the onion flavor without overpowering the dish. - ½ teaspoon garlic powder
Garlic powder adds an extra layer of garlic flavor, ensuring the dish is well-seasoned. - Salt and pepper to taste
Simple seasonings that bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Start by chopping the cabbage into bite-sized pieces. Remove the core and any tough outer leaves. Set the chopped cabbage aside.
- Chop the onion into small pieces, and mince the garlic if you haven’t already.
- Cut the bacon into small, bite-sized pieces. Bacon is easier to chop if you place it in the freezer for a few minutes beforehand.
- Cook the Bacon:
- In a large skillet or frying pan, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Once the bacon is cooked, remove it from the pan using a slotted spoon and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess grease. Leave the bacon grease in the pan, as it will be used to cook the other ingredients.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
- In the same pan with the bacon grease, add the chopped onion. Sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes soft and translucent, which should take about 3-5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the pan and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning the garlic.
- Cook the Cabbage:
- Add the chopped cabbage to the pan with the onions and garlic. Stir well to coat the cabbage in the bacon grease and mix it with the onions and garlic.
- Sprinkle the onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper over the cabbage. Stir to evenly distribute the seasonings.
- Cook the cabbage over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it becomes tender and slightly caramelized. This should take about 10-15 minutes. If you prefer a softer texture, you can cover the pan with a lid to steam the cabbage a bit as it cooks.
- Combine with Bacon:
- Once the cabbage is cooked to your liking, add the cooked bacon back into the pan. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Let the mixture cook together for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Serve:
- Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
- Serve the fried cabbage and bacon hot, either as a side dish or as a main dish with a slice of crusty bread or alongside some boiled potatoes.
Tips for Perfect Fried Cabbage:
- Don’t Rush the Cabbage: Allow the cabbage to cook down and caramelize slightly. This brings out its natural sweetness and enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
- Use the Right Pan: A large skillet or cast-iron pan works best for this dish, as it allows the cabbage to cook evenly without crowding the pan.
- Customize the Flavor: For a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes. If you like a tangy note, a splash of apple cider vinegar can be added towards the end of cooking.
Conclusion:
Fried cabbage with bacon and onion is a hearty, flavorful dish that’s both comforting and satisfying. The combination of smoky bacon, tender cabbage, and savory onion and garlic creates a dish that’s simple yet full of flavor. Whether served as a side or as a main course, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy it with family and friends for a delicious and comforting meal!
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