Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic is a savory and delicious side dish that combines the hearty flavors of bacon with the natural sweetness of cabbage, enhanced by the aromatic presence of onion and garlic. This simple yet flavorful dish is a testament to the magic of combining a few basic ingredients to create a comforting and satisfying addition to any meal. Perfect for pairing with grilled meats or as part of a cozy winter dinner, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for its ease of preparation and depth of flavor.
The inspiration for creating this Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic dish came from a desire to elevate humble ingredients into something extraordinary. On a chilly evening, with a head of cabbage in the fridge and a few slices of bacon on hand, the idea to combine them into a warm, flavorful side dish was born. After adding onion and garlic to the mix, the resulting dish was so rich and satisfying that it immediately earned a spot in the rotation of family favorites.
The first time it was served alongside roasted chicken, it stole the show, surprising everyone with its complex flavors and prompting requests for seconds. This dish has since become a cherished comfort food, bringing warmth and flavor to many meals and gatherings.
Ingredients
- Bacon: 6 slices chopped into small pieces
- Onion: 1 medium chopped
- Garlic: 3 cloves minced
- Cabbage: 1 medium head cored and sliced
- Salt: to taste
- Ground black pepper: to taste
- Apple cider vinegar: 2 tablespoons optional, for a tangy twist
- Red pepper flakes: a pinch optional, for a little heat
Instructions
Cook the Bacon:
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In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove the bacon pieces with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel to drain. Leave the bacon grease in the pan.
Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
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In the same pan with the bacon grease, add the chopped onion. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
Add the Cabbage:
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Add the sliced cabbage to the pan. Stir well to coat the cabbage in the bacon grease and mix with the onion and garlic. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If using, add the apple cider vinegar and red pepper flakes for an extra flavor dimension.
Cook the Cabbage:
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Cover and cook over medium heat for about 10-15 minutes, or until the cabbage is tender but still slightly crisp, stirring occasionally. Adjust the heat as necessary to prevent burning.
Combine with Bacon:
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Once the cabbage is cooked to your liking, add the cooked bacon pieces back to the pan. Stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
Serve:
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Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed, then serve hot as a side dish.
Why You’ll Love Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic
- Rich and Flavorful: The combination of bacon, onion, and garlic creates a savory base that enhances the cabbage’s natural flavors.
- Versatile Side Dish: Pairs well with a wide range of main courses, from simple grilled meats to more elaborate dishes.
- Nutritious: Cabbage is packed with vitamins and antioxidants, making this dish a healthy addition to your diet.
- Quick and Easy: Simple to prepare, requiring minimal ingredients and cooking time.
Ingredients Notes For Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic
- Cabbage: Green cabbage, sliced into thin strips, serves as the dish’s main ingredient.
- Bacon: Provides a smoky, savory flavor that complements the cabbage perfectly.
- Onion and Garlic: Adds depth and aroma to the dish, enhancing its overall taste.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and a dash of vinegar or a sprinkle of sugar can be used to balance the flavors according to preference.
Recipe Steps
- Cook the Bacon: In a large skillet or pan, cook the bacon until crisp. Remove it from the pan, leaving the bacon grease.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and garlic to the bacon grease, cooking until they are soft and fragrant.
- Add Cabbage: Incorporate the sliced cabbage into the pan, stirring to coat it with the bacon grease and aromatics.
- Season: Season with salt and pepper. Add a splash of vinegar or a sprinkle of sugar to taste, if desired.
- Cook Until Tender: Continue cooking the cabbage, stirring occasionally, until it is tender and some edges have started to brown.
- Finish and Serve: Crumble the cooked bacon over the cabbage before serving. Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve warm.
Storage Options
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm up in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little water or additional bacon grease if needed to prevent sticking.
