Fried Cabbage

Fried cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic is a savory and satisfying dish that’s perfect as a side or even a main course. The smoky bacon, sweet onions, and fragrant garlic complement the tender cabbage beautifully. Here’s how to make this delicious comfort food.

Ingredients

• 6 slices of bacon, chopped
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium head of cabbage, cored and sliced
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Cook the Bacon:

• In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it is crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the skillet, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the pan.

2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:

• Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the bacon fat. Sauté over medium heat until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
• Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.

3. Cook the Cabbage:

• Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet. Toss to combine with the onions and garlic, and season with salt, black pepper, and paprika (if using).
• Cook, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and slightly caramelized, about 10-15 minutes. Adjust the heat as needed to prevent burning.

4. Add the Bacon:

• Return the crispy bacon to the skillet and stir to combine. If using, drizzle the apple cider vinegar over the cabbage and toss to coat. This adds a nice tangy flavor that balances the richness of the bacon.

5. Serve:

• Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
• Transfer the fried cabbage to a serving dish and garnish with chopped fresh parsley.

Tips for the Perfect Fried Cabbage

1. Bacon Fat: Use the rendered bacon fat to cook the onions and cabbage. If you prefer a lighter dish, you can drain some of the fat and replace it with olive oil or butter.
2. Heat Control: Cook the cabbage over medium heat, adjusting as necessary to prevent burning. If the cabbage starts to brown too quickly, reduce the heat and continue cooking until tender.
3. Flavor Enhancements: The addition of paprika and apple cider vinegar is optional but highly recommended for added depth of flavor.
4. Vegetarian Option: For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use olive oil or butter to sauté the onions and garlic. You can add smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic the smoky flavor of bacon.
5. Serving Suggestions: This dish pairs well with grilled or roasted meats, and it can also be served over rice or with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish of fried cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic, perfect for any occasion!