Introduction
Southern cuisine is known for its bold flavors and hearty dishes, and this Southern Fried Cabbage recipe is no exception. Combining the smoky richness of bacon, the savory depth of smoked sausage, and the succulent taste of Cajun shrimp, this dish transforms humble cabbage into a star. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s not only easy to prepare but also low-carb and keto-friendly, making it a versatile option for anyone looking to enjoy a comforting meal without compromising on flavor.
This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. The cabbage absorbs the delicious flavors of the meats and spices, creating a dish that’s both satisfying and nutritious. Whether you’re a fan of Southern cooking or simply looking for a new way to enjoy cabbage, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
To make this Southern Fried Cabbage, you’ll need a small head of cabbage, chopped into bite-sized pieces.
For the protein, gather half a pound of peeled and deveined shrimp, half a pound of smoked sausage sliced into rounds, and four slices of bacon chopped into small pieces.
The dish is seasoned with two cloves of minced garlic, half a teaspoon of smoked paprika, and salt and pepper to taste.
A drizzle of olive oil helps to sauté the ingredients, while fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness as an optional garnish.
The combination of these ingredients creates a harmonious blend of flavors. The bacon adds a smoky richness, the sausage brings a hearty depth, and the shrimp introduces a touch of Cajun-inspired zest.
Together, they elevate the cabbage, making it the star of the dish.
This recipe is incredibly flexible, allowing you to adjust the ingredients to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Whether you stick to the original recipe or experiment with variations, the result will be a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Instructions
Begin by cooking the chopped bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until it becomes crispy. Once done, remove the bacon and set it aside, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the skillet. This fat will infuse the dish with a rich, smoky flavor. Next, add the sliced sausage to the skillet and cook until it’s nicely browned, which should take about four to five minutes. Remove the sausage and set it aside with the bacon.
In the same skillet, add a bit of olive oil and the minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for a minute or two until it becomes fragrant, then add the shrimp. Cook the shrimp for two to three minutes, or until they turn pink and opaque. Remove the shrimp and set them aside with the other cooked ingredients.
Finally, add the chopped cabbage to the skillet. Season it with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper, and cook for eight to ten minutes, stirring occasionally. The cabbage should become tender but still retain a slight crunch.
Once the cabbage is cooked, return the bacon, sausage, and shrimp to the skillet. Toss everything together and cook for an additional two to three minutes to ensure all the flavors meld. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
How to Make
Making this Southern Fried Cabbage is a straightforward process that yields impressive results. Start by cooking the bacon until it’s crispy, then set it aside. The bacon fat left in the skillet will serve as the base for cooking the other ingredients, adding a layer of smoky flavor. Next, brown the sausage in the same skillet, allowing it to develop a rich, caramelized exterior.
After removing the sausage, sauté the garlic in olive oil until it’s fragrant, then cook the shrimp until they’re just done. The key here is to avoid overcooking the shrimp, as they’ll continue to cook slightly when added back to the skillet later.
Once the shrimp are set aside, add the cabbage to the skillet and season it with smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
Cook the cabbage until it’s tender but still has a bit of crunch, then reintroduce the bacon, sausage, and shrimp. Toss everything together and let it heat through for a few minutes. The result is a dish that’s bursting with flavor, with each ingredient complementing the others perfectly.
Variations
If you’d like to switch things up, there are plenty of ways to customize this recipe. For a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce to the cabbage while it cooks. You could also use Andouille sausage instead of smoked sausage for an extra kick of Cajun flavor.
For a vegetarian twist, omit the bacon, sausage, and shrimp, and replace them with plant-based alternatives like smoked tofu or tempeh. You can also add other vegetables, such as bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms, to create a more diverse flavor profile.
If you’re not following a low-carb or keto diet, consider serving this dish over a bed of rice or quinoa. The grains will soak up the delicious juices from the cabbage and meats, making for an even heartier meal.
Tips
To ensure the best results, use a large skillet that can accommodate all the ingredients without overcrowding. Overcrowding the skillet can lead to steaming rather than frying, which may result in soggy cabbage. If your skillet is on the smaller side, cook the cabbage in batches.
When cooking the shrimp, keep a close eye on them to prevent overcooking. Shrimp cook quickly, and overcooked shrimp can become rubbery. As soon as they turn pink and opaque, remove them from the skillet.
For added flavor, consider using homemade Cajun seasoning instead of just smoked paprika. A blend of paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, thyme, oregano, and a touch of cayenne can elevate the dish even further.
How to Store
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm the dish in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the cabbage mushy.
If you’d like to freeze the dish, it’s best to do so without the shrimp, as they can become tough when frozen and reheated. Store the cabbage, bacon, and sausage in a freezer-safe container for up to two months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Conclusion
This Southern Fried Cabbage recipe is a celebration of bold flavors and simple cooking. It’s a dish that brings together the best of Southern cuisine, with its smoky bacon, hearty sausage, and zesty shrimp, all wrapped up in tender, flavorful cabbage. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just looking for a comforting meal, this recipe is sure to impress.
Not only is this dish delicious, but it’s also versatile and adaptable. You can tweak the ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Give it a try, and you’ll see why this Southern Fried Cabbage is a true crowd-pleaser.