This Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic is a delicious, savory dish that combines the smoky flavor of bacon with the sweetness of onions and the hearty taste of cabbage. It’s a simple yet satisfying side dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of main courses or can be enjoyed on its own for a comforting meal.
Ingredients:
- 6 slices bacon, chopped: The bacon adds a rich, smoky flavor and crispy texture to the dish, making it a key ingredient.
- 1 large onion, chopped: The onion brings sweetness and depth of flavor, complementing the bacon and cabbage.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Garlic adds a fragrant and savory note, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
- 1 medium head of cabbage, cored and chopped: The cabbage is the star of the dish, providing a hearty, slightly sweet base that absorbs all the delicious flavors.
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste): Essential for seasoning, it helps to bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste): Adds a bit of spice and balances the sweetness of the cabbage and onions.
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor): Smoked paprika adds a subtle smoky flavor and a hint of warmth, making the dish even more flavorful.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for a tangy kick): The vinegar adds a bright, tangy contrast to the rich flavors, giving the dish a nice balance.
Instructions:
- Cook the Bacon:
- In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy and browned. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the skillet, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the pan. Set the bacon aside.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
- In the same skillet with the bacon fat, add the chopped onion. Cook the onion over medium heat until it becomes soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the garlic is fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as it can become bitter.
- Cook the Cabbage:
- Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Stir well to combine and coat the cabbage with the bacon fat.
- Season the cabbage with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Stir to distribute the seasonings evenly.
- Cover the skillet and cook the cabbage over medium heat for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally. Cook until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized. If you prefer your cabbage to have a bit more bite, you can reduce the cooking time.
- Add the Bacon and Vinegar:
- Once the cabbage is cooked to your liking, stir the crispy bacon back into the skillet.
- If you’re using apple cider vinegar, drizzle it over the cabbage and bacon mixture. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding more salt or pepper to suit your preference.
- Serve:
- Serve the fried cabbage hot, either as a side dish or a main course. It pairs well with a variety of meats, such as pork chops, grilled chicken, or sausages, but it’s also delicious on its own.
Tips for the Best Fried Cabbage
- Bacon Fat: Using the rendered bacon fat to cook the onions, garlic, and cabbage is key to achieving maximum flavor. However, if you prefer a lighter dish, you can drain some of the fat and replace it with a bit of olive oil or butter.
- Vinegar: The apple cider vinegar is optional but highly recommended if you like a bit of tanginess in your dish. It brightens up the flavors and balances the richness of the bacon and cabbage.
- Spices: Smoked paprika adds a wonderful depth to the dish, but if you don’t have it on hand, regular paprika or a pinch of cayenne pepper can be used as a substitute.
Variations
- Add Sausage: For a heartier meal, add sliced smoked sausage or kielbasa to the skillet along with the bacon. It adds more protein and an additional layer of flavor.
- Spicy Kick: If you enjoy spicy food, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when sautéing the onions for an extra kick.
- Vegetarian Option: To make a vegetarian version, skip the bacon and use olive oil or butter to cook the onions and cabbage. You can also add a bit of smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic the smoky flavor of bacon.
Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic is a simple yet incredibly flavorful dish that brings together the best of hearty comfort food. The combination of crispy bacon, tender cabbage, and savory onions and garlic makes this dish a crowd-pleaser. Whether you serve it as a side dish or enjoy it on its own, it’s sure to become a favorite in your meal rotation. The optional additions of smoked paprika and apple cider vinegar provide extra layers of flavor, making this dish even more delicious. Enjoy this classic dish as a warm and satisfying meal any day of the week!
