Fried cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic is a hearty and flavorful dish that brings together simple, wholesome ingredients in a delightful way. This recipe is a classic comfort food that combines the savory goodness of crispy bacon with the sweet and aromatic notes of sautéed onions and garlic.
The cabbage, when cooked to perfection, becomes tender and slightly caramelized, adding a wonderful texture and taste to the dish. Whether served as a side dish or a main course, fried cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic is sure to be a hit at any meal, offering a delicious and satisfying experience that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly tasty.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of cabbage, chopped
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
- 1 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the Bacon:
- In a large skillet or pan, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy.
- Remove the bacon from the pan and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave the bacon fat in the pan.
- Cook the Onion and Garlic:
- Add the diced onion to the pan with the bacon fat. Cook for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to avoid burning the garlic.
- Cook the Cabbage:
- Add the chopped cabbage to the pan. If needed, you can add a bit of olive oil to help with the cooking.
- Stir well to coat the cabbage with the bacon fat and mix it with the onions and garlic.
- Season with salt, pepper, and paprika (if using). Continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized, about 10-15 minutes.
- Combine and Serve:
- Add the cooked bacon back into the pan and stir everything together.
- Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat the bacon through.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
- Serve hot as a side dish or main dish.
For variations and tips on your fried cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic, consider the following:
- Add Vegetables: You can include other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or even some shredded carrots for added color and nutrition.
- Spice It Up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños while cooking the onions and garlic.
- Use Different Meats: Instead of bacon, try using smoked sausage or ham for a different flavor profile.
- Seasoning Options: Experiment with different herbs and spices such as thyme, oregano, or cumin to enhance the flavor.
- Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs well with a variety of proteins, making it a great side for grilled chicken, pork chops, or fish.
- Make It Vegetarian: You can skip the bacon and use olive oil or butter for cooking, and add some nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet to maintain the texture.
To store your fried cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic, follow these steps:
- Cool Down: Allow the dish to cool to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the cabbage soggy.
- Airtight Container: Transfer the cooled cabbage to an airtight container. Make sure it’s sealed tightly to keep out air and moisture.
- Refrigeration: Store the container in the refrigerator. The dish can last for about 3 to 4 days.
- Reheating: When you’re ready to eat the leftovers, reheat them in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through. You can add a splash of water or a little olive oil to help with reheating and prevent sticking.
Following these steps will help maintain the flavor and texture of your dish!
Enjoy!