Fried cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic is a flavorful, comforting dish that will make your taste buds sing. The crispiness of the bacon perfectly complements the tender cabbage, while the caramelized onions and aromatic garlic add depth and richness to every bite. This easy-to-make recipe brings together simple ingredients to create a dish that’s both satisfying and full of savory goodness. Ideal as a side dish or a main course, this fried cabbage recipe is a crowd-pleaser that can be enjoyed by everyone at the table.
Ingredients:
- 1 medium head of cabbage, shredded
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional for extra flavor)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a touch of heat)
Instructions:
- Start by preparing the cabbage. Cut the cabbage in half, remove the core, and shred it into thin strips. Set it aside.
- In a large skillet or frying pan, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease.
- Retain about 1-2 tablespoons of bacon grease in the pan (discard the rest) and heat it over medium heat. Add olive oil or butter to the pan to enhance the flavor and texture.
- Add the finely chopped onions to the pan and sauté for 3-4 minutes until they become translucent and soft. Stir occasionally to avoid burning.
- Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant, making sure not to burn the garlic.
- Once the garlic has been sautéed, add the shredded cabbage to the pan. Toss the cabbage with the onions and garlic to combine evenly.
- Season the cabbage with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if desired). Stir the cabbage occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly.
- Cook the cabbage for about 10-12 minutes, allowing it to soften and slightly caramelize. Stir often to prevent sticking, and cook until the cabbage reaches your desired level of tenderness.
- Once the cabbage is cooked, add the crispy bacon back into the pan, mixing it well with the cabbage, onions, and garlic. Continue cooking for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more salt, pepper, or paprika for extra flavor.
- Serve the fried cabbage hot as a side dish or as a main course. It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, chicken, or a hearty stew. Enjoy!
This fried cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic is the perfect combination of crispy, tender, and savory elements. The balance of flavors makes this dish a standout that will complement any meal or can even serve as a standalone delight. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner or a special occasion, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your kitchen.