If you’re looking for a savory, easy-to-make side dish that brings comfort and flavor to the table, look no further than Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic. This dish is not only packed with bold flavors but also incredibly simple to prepare, making it the perfect addition to any meal. Whether you’re serving it as a side for your weeknight dinner or bringing it to a holiday feast, this cabbage dish will quickly become a family favorite.
Why Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic is a Must-Try
Cabbage is often overlooked, but when sautéed with bacon, onions, and garlic, it transforms into a dish that is bursting with flavor. The crispiness of the bacon, the sweetness of the caramelized onions, and the aromatic garlic all come together to elevate the cabbage, creating a comforting, savory side dish.
In addition to being delicious, fried cabbage is also versatile. It pairs well with a variety of main courses, such as roast chicken, grilled meats, or even a hearty steak. It’s a great way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals while still satisfying your taste buds.
This recipe is also family-approved. It’s been passed down through generations and is often included in cookbooks for children when they leave home to get married. Why? Because it’s easy to make, affordable, and always a hit with the family.
Ingredients for Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic
To make this savory dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 large head of cabbage, cored and sliced
- 1 tablespoon of salt, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon of ground black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon of onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- 1/8 teaspoon of paprika
These ingredients come together to create a dish that’s both rich in flavor and simple to prepare. Each component enhances the others, making this dish a truly satisfying side.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic
Now that you’ve gathered all your ingredients, let’s dive into how to make this fried cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic. Follow these easy steps to create a flavorful dish that your whole family will love.
1. Cook the Bacon
Start by placing the chopped bacon in a large stockpot or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the bacon for about 10 minutes, or until it becomes crispy and golden. The bacon fat will render out, creating a flavorful base for the cabbage and vegetables.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Once the bacon is crispy, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pan with the bacon. Stir occasionally and cook until the onions caramelize, which should take about 10 minutes. The onions will become soft and sweet, while the garlic will release its aromatic flavor into the dish.
3. Add the Cabbage
Now it’s time to add the sliced cabbage to the pan. Stir it into the bacon, onions, and garlic, ensuring that the cabbage gets coated in the delicious bacon fat and seasoning. Continue to cook and stir for an additional 10 minutes, allowing the cabbage to begin wilting and softening.
4. Season the Dish
Once the cabbage has started to soften, season the dish with salt, black pepper, onion powder, garlic powder, and a pinch of paprika. The paprika adds a subtle smokiness and warmth, complementing the richness of the bacon and the sweetness of the onions. Stir well to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly seasoned.
5. Simmer the Cabbage
Lower the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the cabbage simmer for about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent the cabbage from sticking to the bottom of the pot. The cabbage will continue to soften, absorb all the flavors, and become tender.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Once the cabbage is tender and the flavors have melded together, it’s ready to serve. Transfer the fried cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic to a serving dish and enjoy! This dish is perfect as a side for roasted meats, pork chops, or even as a stand-alone vegetarian meal.
Tips for Perfect Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic
- Adjust the seasonings: Depending on your taste, you can adjust the amount of salt, pepper, and garlic powder. If you like a bit of spice, try adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some red pepper flakes.
- Use thick-cut bacon: For extra flavor and texture, opt for thick-cut bacon, which will give you more crispy bits to mix into the cabbage.
- Add a splash of vinegar: For a little tang, try adding a splash of apple cider vinegar just before serving. It will balance the richness of the bacon and enhance the flavors.
- Add other vegetables: You can easily customize this dish by adding other vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, or even mushrooms for added texture and nutrition.
Why You’ll Love Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic
Fried cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic is one of those dishes that hits all the right notes. It’s comforting, flavorful, and easy to make. The bacon provides a salty, savory crunch, the onions add sweetness, and the garlic brings a depth of flavor that pulls everything together.
Moreover, cabbage is a nutrient-rich vegetable, packed with vitamins C and K, fiber, and antioxidants, making this dish not only delicious but also good for you. Whether you’re looking for a healthy side dish or just something satisfying and hearty, this fried cabbage recipe has got you covered.
It’s the kind of dish that brings people together around the table, and it’s sure to become a family favorite, just like it has in so many homes. Once you try it, you’ll be making this easy and tasty dish over and over again.
Final Thoughts
This fried cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic recipe is a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy cabbage in a whole new way. It’s quick to prepare, uses everyday ingredients, and is sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Whether you serve it for a casual family dinner or a holiday feast, it’s a dish that’s guaranteed to disappear fast.