Fried cabbage with bacon and onion is a comforting and flavorful dish that brings out the best in simple ingredients. This classic recipe combines crispy bacon, sweet onions, and tender cabbage, creating a savory side dish or even a main course that’s perfect for any meal. The smokiness of the bacon, the caramelized onions, and the tender, slightly sweet cabbage come together beautifully, enhanced by optional additions like smoked paprika and apple cider vinegar for a subtle tang and depth of flavor.
Whether you’re looking for a hearty accompaniment to your favorite meats or a standalone vegetable dish, this fried cabbage with bacon and onion is sure to satisfy. It’s a versatile recipe that’s easy to make and sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Enjoy the rich, savory goodness of this dish, which is perfect for cozy family dinners or as a comforting treat on a chilly day.
Ingredients
– 1 medium head of green cabbage, cored and thinly sliced
– 6 slices of bacon, chopped
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for a bit of tang)
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions
1. Cook the Bacon:
– In a large skillet or frying pan, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy. This should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet.
2. Sauté the Onion:
– Add the onion slices to the bacon fat-filled skillet. Sauté over medium heat until the onion is soft and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the Garlic:
– Add the minced garlic and stir; simmer for an additional minute, or until fragrant.
4. Cook the Cabbage:
– Add the sliced cabbage to the skillet. Combine the garlic and onions and stir thoroughly. Simmer the cabbage for ten to fifteen minutes, stirring now and then, or until it’s soft and starting to caramelize.. If the cabbage starts to stick, you can add a splash of water or chicken broth to help deglaze the pan.
5. Season and Finish:
– Season the cabbage with salt, pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Add the apple cider vinegar (if using) and stir well. To allow the flavors to mingle, cook for a further two to three minutes.
6. Add Bacon Back:
– Return the crispy bacon to the skillet and stir to combine. Cook for another minute to reheat the bacon.
7. Serve:
– Serve the fried cabbage hot, as a side dish or a main course.
Tips
– For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use olive oil or butter to sauté the onions and cabbage.
– You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added color and flavor.
Enjoy your delicious fried cabbage with bacon and onion!
