Fried Cabbage with Bacon and Onion

This Fried Cabbage with Bacon and Onion recipe is a classic comfort dish that combines the savory goodness of bacon, the sweetness of caramelized onions, and the hearty crunch of cabbage. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that works perfectly as a side or even a main dish. The smoky bacon pairs wonderfully with the tender cabbage, making it a delightful addition to any meal.

Ingredients

4 strips of thick-cut bacon, diced
3 tablespoons butter
1 onion, diced
6 cloves garlic, minced
1 head of cabbage, diced
1 teaspoon Celtic sea salt

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Bacon: Dice the thick-cut bacon into small pieces.
Onion: Dice the onion finely.
Garlic: Mince the garlic cloves.
Cabbage: Cut the cabbage into small, bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Cook the Bacon

Heat a Skillet: Place a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat.
Cook the Bacon: Add the diced bacon to the skillet. Cook until the bacon is crispy and has released its fat, about 5-7 minutes. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Remove Bacon: Use a slotted spoon to remove the cooked bacon from the skillet, leaving the bacon grease in the pan. Set the bacon aside on a paper towel-lined plate.

Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

Add Butter: Add the 3 tablespoons of butter to the skillet with the bacon grease.
Cook Onion: Add the diced onion to the skillet. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent and starts to caramelize, about 5 minutes.
Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 4: Cook the Cabbage

Add Cabbage: Add the diced cabbage to the skillet with the onion and garlic. Stir well to combine.
Season: Sprinkle the cabbage with 1 teaspoon of Celtic sea salt.
Cook Cabbage: Cook the cabbage, stirring occasionally, until it becomes tender and starts to caramelize around the edges, about 10-15 minutes. If the pan becomes too dry, you can add a splash of water or chicken broth to help soften the cabbage.

Step 5: Combine and Serve

Add Bacon Back: Once the cabbage is cooked to your desired tenderness, add the cooked bacon back into the skillet. Stir to combine.
Final Touch: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning with additional salt if needed.
Serve: Serve the fried cabbage hot as a side dish or a main course.

Cooking Notes

Bacon: Thick-cut bacon is recommended for this recipe as it adds a substantial, meaty texture. However, you can use regular bacon if that’s what you have on hand.
Cabbage: Green cabbage is typically used, but you can substitute with red cabbage for a colorful twist.
Flavor Additions: For extra flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or a splash of apple cider vinegar for tanginess.
Texture: For a softer texture, cover the skillet while cooking the cabbage. For a slightly crispier texture, leave the skillet uncovered.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of cabbage? Yes, you can use green cabbage, red cabbage, or a mix of both. Each type will give a slightly different flavor and color to the dish.

How do I store leftovers? Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.

Can I make this dish ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve. It may lose some of its crispiness, but it will still be delicious.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe? To make a vegetarian version, you can omit the bacon and use olive oil or more butter instead. Adding smoked paprika can give a hint of smokiness to replace the bacon flavor.

Keto/Low Carb Version

This recipe is already keto and low-carb friendly as it uses simple ingredients like cabbage, bacon, and butter. Ensure that any additional seasonings or flavorings you use are also low-carb.

This Fried Cabbage with Bacon and Onion recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any meal. The combination of crispy bacon, caramelized onions, and tender cabbage makes it a comforting and satisfying side dish or main course. It’s easy to make and packed with flavors that everyone will love.

Give this Fried Cabbage with Bacon and Onion recipe a try and share your experience! Did you add any unique twists or ingredients? Let us know in the comments below. Don’t forget to tag us in your photos on social media. For more delicious recipes and culinary tips, subscribe to our blog and stay tuned for the latest updates. Happy cooking!