Fried Cabbage with Bacon Onion, and Garlic

Fried Cabbage with Bacon Onion, and garlic is a delicious, hearty dish that combines the natural sweetness of cabbage with the rich flavor of crispy bacon. It’s a simple, yet flavorful side dish that can be prepared in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for any busy weeknight or a special family meal. Whether you’re looking for an easy way to incorporate more vegetables into your meals or simply craving something savory, this recipe will surely satisfy your taste buds.

In this article, we’ll go over the step-by-step process of how to make Fried Cabbage with Bacon Onion, and garlic, along with useful tips, nutritional information, and the benefits of this dish. You’ll learn not only how to cook this recipe to perfection but also how it can serve as a tasty and healthy side dish for a wide range of main courses.

Ingredients for Fried Cabbage with Bacon Onion, and Garlic

To make this flavorful dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 medium head of cabbage (shredded): The cabbage forms the base of this dish. It’s hearty and full of nutrients.
• 4 slices bacon (chopped): Bacon adds a smoky flavor and crispy texture to the cabbage.
• 1 onion (sliced): The onion adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
• 2 cloves garlic (minced): Garlic brings a savory, aromatic note to the recipe.
• 1 tbsp olive oil: Olive oil helps sauté the vegetables and enhances the flavor.
• Salt and pepper (to taste): Season the dish to your preference to bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients.

These ingredients come together to create a savory and satisfying dish that can be served as a side or even as a main course. The crispy bacon contrasts perfectly with the tender cabbage, and the onion and garlic add an extra layer of complexity to the overall taste.

Directions for Making Fried Cabbage with Bacon Onion, and Garlic

Follow these easy steps to make this delectable fried cabbage dish:

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

1. Prepare the Bacon: Begin by chopping the bacon into small pieces. Place a large skillet or frying pan on medium heat.
2. Fry the Bacon: Add the chopped bacon to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until it becomes crispy and golden brown. This should take around 5-7 minutes, depending on the thickness of your bacon. Once the bacon is crispy, remove it from the pan and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain the excess fat.
3. Save the Bacon Drippings: Do not discard the bacon drippings in the pan. The leftover bacon fat will be used to sauté the vegetables, adding even more flavor to the dish.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

1. Add Olive Oil: Add one tablespoon of olive oil to the skillet with the bacon drippings. Heat the oil over medium heat.
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic: Once the oil is hot, add the sliced onion to the pan. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently to prevent the garlic from burning.

The onions should be golden and aromatic by the time you finish this step, while the garlic should fill the kitchen with a savory fragrance.

Step 3: Cook the Cabbage

1. Add the Shredded Cabbage: Now, it’s time to add the shredded cabbage to the skillet. Stir well to combine the cabbage with the onion and garlic mixture. Season the cabbage with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Cook the Cabbage: Continue cooking the cabbage, stirring occasionally, for 10-15 minutes. The cabbage will begin to soften, caramelize slightly, and turn golden brown in spots. If the cabbage starts to stick to the pan, you can add a little bit more olive oil or a splash of water to help it cook evenly.

As the cabbage cooks, its flavor will develop, and the edges will begin to crisp up, adding a delightful texture to the dish.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

1. Add the Bacon: Once the cabbage has cooked down and caramelized to your liking, stir the crispy bacon back into the skillet. Toss everything together until the bacon is evenly distributed throughout the cabbage.
2. Serve Immediately: Remove the skillet from the heat and serve the Fried Cabbage with Bacon Onion, and garlic while it’s hot.

This dish pairs beautifully with meats like grilled chicken, pork chops, or steak. You can also enjoy it on its own as a vegetarian main course, making it versatile enough for different dietary preferences.

Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

This recipe is incredibly quick and easy, making it perfect for anyone looking to prepare a delicious meal in under an hour.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: 150 kcal per serving
• Fat: 11g
• Carbohydrates: 8g
• Protein: 6g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sodium: 450mg

This dish is a good source of fiber and protein while being low in carbohydrates, making it a great option for those following a low-carb or keto diet. The bacon adds a good amount of fat, but you can adjust the amount of bacon to reduce calories if necessary.

Tips for Making the Perfect Fried Cabbage with Bacon Onion

• Use a large skillet: A larger skillet will allow the cabbage to cook evenly and provide enough space to sauté the vegetables properly. If your skillet is too small, the cabbage may steam rather than fry.
• Adjust the seasoning: Feel free to experiment with the seasoning to suit your taste. Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat or a dash of smoked paprika for an extra smoky flavor.
• Use fresh cabbage: Fresh cabbage will have a better texture and flavor than older cabbage, so be sure to choose a crisp, firm head of cabbage for the best results.
• Optional Add-ins: For added texture and flavor, you can add other vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or mushrooms to the dish. You can also substitute the bacon for turkey bacon or another type of protein if desired.

Health Benefits of Fried Cabbage with Bacon Onion, and Garlic

This dish is not only delicious but also offers numerous health benefits:

• Cabbage is high in vitamins and fiber: Cabbage is an excellent source of vitamin K, vitamin C, and several B vitamins, including folate. It also contains fiber, which promotes digestive health.
• Bacon provides protein: While bacon should be enjoyed in moderation, it does provide a good source of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and growth.
• Garlic has health benefits: Garlic is known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties. It can also help lower cholesterol and support heart health.

The combination of cabbage and garlic in this dish makes it not only tasty but also beneficial for overall health, especially when paired with other nutrient-dense ingredients.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this recipe without bacon?

Yes, you can substitute the bacon with turkey bacon, sausage, or even skip the meat altogether for a vegetarian version. You can also use smoked paprika or liquid smoke to add a smoky flavor without the bacon.

How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat to maintain the texture.

Can I freeze this dish?

While it’s not ideal for freezing due to the texture of the cabbage, you can freeze the cooked bacon and cabbage mixture in a sealed container for up to 1 month. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with adding vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or even mushrooms for more flavor and texture. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

Conclusion

Fried Cabbage with Bacon Onion, and garlic is a wonderfully easy and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight meal or special occasion. The combination of crispy bacon, tender cabbage, and the rich flavor of garlic and onion makes this dish irresistible. Plus, it’s quick to make and can be easily adjusted to suit your dietary needs. Whether you’re looking for a new way to enjoy cabbage or just need a tasty side dish to pair with your main course, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.