why make this recipe
This dish is simple, cheap, and full of flavor. It uses easy ingredients and cooks fast. It is a warm side dish that pairs well with many meals.
introduction
Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon is a quick and tasty way to cook cabbage. The bacon adds salt and crunch while the cabbage gets soft and sweet. If you like bacon and greens, try our bacon Brussels sprouts recipe for another easy vegetable side.
how to make Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon
You cook bacon first, then use the fat to cook the onion and garlic. Add the cabbage and stir until tender. Mix the bacon back in, season, and serve warm.
Ingredients :
- 1 head of cabbage, chopped
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Directions :
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy.
- Remove the bacon and drain on paper towels, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet with the bacon drippings and sauté until the onion is translucent.
- Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion and garlic.
- Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is wilted and tender.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Stir in the crispy bacon, and serve warm.
how to serve Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon
Serve it hot as a side with meat, poultry, or fish. It is good with rice, cornbread, or mashed potatoes. You can top it with extra bacon bits or a little butter.
how to store Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon
Cool the cabbage to room temperature. Put it in an airtight container. Store in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave until hot.
tips to make Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon
- Use a large skillet so the cabbage can cook evenly.
- Cook the bacon until crispy for the best texture.
- If you have little bacon, add 1 tablespoon olive oil to help cook the cabbage.
- Stir often but not constantly so the cabbage browns a bit.
- Taste and add salt at the end because bacon is salty.
variation (if any)
- Add chopped smoked sausage for more meat flavor.
- Toss in a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for brightness.
- Use red cabbage for color and a slightly different taste.
- Add a pinch of sugar if you like sweeter cabbage.
FAQs
Q: Can I use pre-shredded cabbage?
A: Yes. Pre-shredded cabbage works. Watch the cooking time; it may be shorter.
Q: Is this dish spicy?
A: No, not unless you add red pepper flakes. You can skip them for no heat.
Q: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Make it vegetarian by skipping the bacon and using olive oil or butter and a pinch of smoked paprika for a smoky taste.
Q: Can I freeze cooked cabbage?
A: You can freeze it, but texture may change. Freeze in a tight container for up to 2 months. Reheat slowly.
Southern Fried Cabbage with Bacon
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Sautéing
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Omnivore
Description
A quick and flavorful side dish featuring cabbage cooked with crispy bacon, onions, and garlic.
Ingredients
- 1 head of cabbage, chopped
- 4 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until crispy.
- Remove the bacon and drain on paper towels, leaving the drippings in the skillet.
- Add the chopped onion and garlic to the skillet with the bacon drippings and sauté until the onion is translucent.
- Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion and garlic.
- Cook for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is wilted and tender.
- Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using.
- Stir in the crispy bacon, and serve warm.
Notes
For a vegetarian version, skip the bacon and use olive oil or butter with smoked paprika.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 200
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 7g
- Cholesterol: 25mg