This simple yet flavorful dish features tender cabbage fried with crispy bacon, sweet onions, and fragrant garlic. It’s a quick and easy side dish that’s perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 head of cabbage (about 2 pounds), shredded or chopped
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Red pepper flakes for a touch of heat
- Optional: Fresh parsley or chives, chopped, for garnish
Instructions:
- Cook the Bacon:
- In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy.
- Remove the bacon from the skillet and set aside, leaving the bacon grease in the skillet.
- Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the bacon grease and cook for 5-7 minutes, until softened and slightly caramelized.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the Cabbage:
- Add the shredded or chopped cabbage to the skillet.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Toss to combine with the onions and garlic.
- Fry the Cabbage:
- Cook the cabbage over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until tender-crisp and slightly browned, about 10-15 minutes.
- If the skillet gets too dry, add a tablespoon of olive oil or butter.
- Combine and Serve:
- Return the cooked bacon to the skillet and stir to combine.
- Cook for another minute or two to heat through.
- Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or chives, if desired.
- Serve immediately.
Tips and Notes:
- Cabbage Variations: You can use green cabbage, red cabbage, or Savoy cabbage.
- Bacon Variations: You can use thick-cut bacon or turkey bacon.
- Vegetable Add-ins: You can add other vegetables to the dish, such as bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms.
- Vinegar Addition: Add a splash of apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar to the cabbage for a tangy flavor.
- Spice It Up: Add a dash of hot sauce or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper for a spicy kick.
- Make Ahead: You can cook the bacon and sauté the onions and garlic ahead of time. Refrigerate them until ready to cook the cabbage.
Enjoy your delicious Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic!