Savory Fried Cabbage with Bacon, Onion, and Garlic: A Comfort Food Classic

Fried cabbage might not be the first dish that springs to mind when you’re planning dinner, but trust me, this recipe will change your mind. This simple, humble dish transforms ordinary cabbage into a flavorful and satisfying meal or side dish. The combination of crispy bacon, sweet onion, pungent garlic, and perfectly softened cabbage creates a symphony of textures and tastes that is both comforting and surprisingly addictive. It’s an easy one-pan recipe, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and can be customized to your liking.

## Why You’ll Love This Fried Cabbage Recipe

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about why you should give this fried cabbage a try:

* **Flavorful and Delicious:** The bacon provides a smoky, salty base that complements the sweetness of the onion and the sharpness of the garlic. The cabbage itself becomes tender and slightly caramelized, adding a delightful depth of flavor.
* **Quick and Easy:** This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights.
* **Budget-Friendly:** Cabbage is an inexpensive vegetable, and bacon, onion, and garlic are pantry staples, making this a wallet-friendly meal.
* **Versatile:** Serve it as a main course, a side dish, or even a topping for other dishes. Add some sausage, potatoes, or other vegetables to make it a more substantial meal.
* **Customizable:** Easily adapt the recipe to your preferences by adding different seasonings, vegetables, or proteins.
* **One-Pan Wonder:** Minimal cleanup is always a plus! This recipe is primarily cooked in one pan, saving you time and effort.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need to make this amazing fried cabbage dish:

* **1 medium head of cabbage:** Green cabbage is the most common choice and works perfectly in this recipe. You can also use Savoy cabbage for a slightly milder flavor and more tender texture. Red cabbage will work too, but the flavor profile will be slightly different, and the color will bleed a bit during cooking. About 2 pounds is ideal.
* **4-6 slices of bacon:** Thick-cut bacon provides the best flavor and texture. You can use any type of bacon you prefer, such as hickory-smoked, applewood-smoked, or even turkey bacon (though the flavor will be less intense). If you’re vegetarian or vegan, you can use plant-based bacon alternatives or simply omit the bacon and add a tablespoon or two of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
* **1 medium onion:** Yellow or white onion works well. The onion adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the dish. You can also use a sweet onion for a milder flavor.
* **3-4 cloves of garlic:** Fresh garlic is essential for the best flavor. Mince the garlic finely so it distributes evenly throughout the dish. You can adjust the amount of garlic to your preference.
* **2 tablespoons olive oil (or other cooking oil):** The oil helps to prevent the cabbage from sticking to the pan and adds a touch of richness. You can use other cooking oils, such as vegetable oil, canola oil, or avocado oil.
* **1/4 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth):** The broth helps to steam the cabbage and soften it. You can also use water in a pinch, but the broth adds more flavor.
* **1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional):** The vinegar adds a touch of acidity that balances the richness of the bacon and oil. You can also use white vinegar or lemon juice.
* **Salt and pepper to taste:** Season generously with salt and pepper to enhance the flavors of the dish. Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred.
* **Optional additions:** Red pepper flakes for heat, caraway seeds for a traditional flavor, fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for added freshness.

## Equipment Needed

* **Large skillet or Dutch oven:** A large skillet or Dutch oven is essential for cooking the cabbage evenly. Make sure the skillet is large enough to hold all the ingredients without overcrowding.
* **Cutting board:** For chopping the vegetables.
* **Sharp knife:** For chopping the vegetables.
* **Spatula or wooden spoon:** For stirring the ingredients.

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Now, let’s get cooking! Here’s a detailed guide on how to make delicious fried cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic:

**Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients**

* **Prepare the Bacon:** Place the bacon slices on a cutting board. Cut the bacon into 1/2-inch pieces. This will help it cook evenly and render its fat quickly.
* **Prepare the Cabbage:** Remove any wilted or damaged outer leaves from the cabbage. Cut the cabbage in half through the core. Place each half cut-side down on the cutting board and cut it into quarters. Remove the core from each quarter by cutting it out with a knife at an angle. Shred the cabbage thinly using a sharp knife or a mandoline slicer. You should have about 6-8 cups of shredded cabbage.
* **Prepare the Onion:** Peel the onion and cut it in half. Place each half cut-side down on the cutting board and slice it thinly.
* **Prepare the Garlic:** Peel the garlic cloves and mince them finely. You can use a garlic press or a knife.

**Step 2: Cook the Bacon**

* Place the chopped bacon in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat.
* Cook the bacon, stirring occasionally, until it is crispy and golden brown. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
* Remove the bacon from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain the excess grease. Leave the rendered bacon fat in the skillet.

**Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic**

* Add the chopped onion to the skillet with the bacon fat.
* Cook the onion, stirring occasionally, until it is softened and translucent. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
* Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

**Step 4: Cook the Cabbage**

* Add the shredded cabbage to the skillet with the onion and garlic.
* Stir well to combine the cabbage with the onion, garlic, and bacon fat.
* Pour the chicken broth (or vegetable broth) over the cabbage.
* Season with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add red pepper flakes for heat, if desired.
* Cover the skillet and cook for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the cabbage is tender and slightly wilted. The cooking time will depend on the thickness of the cabbage shreds and your desired level of tenderness.
* If you prefer your cabbage more caramelized, remove the lid during the last 5 minutes of cooking and allow the liquid to evaporate.

**Step 5: Finish and Serve**

* Stir in the cooked bacon and apple cider vinegar (if using).
* Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
* Serve the fried cabbage hot as a main course or a side dish. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.

## Tips for the Best Fried Cabbage

* **Don’t overcrowd the pan:** If you have a small skillet, cook the cabbage in batches to ensure it cooks evenly. Overcrowding the pan will cause the cabbage to steam instead of fry, resulting in a soggy texture.
* **Use enough fat:** The bacon fat is essential for adding flavor and preventing the cabbage from sticking to the pan. If you don’t have enough bacon fat, you can add a tablespoon or two of olive oil or other cooking oil.
* **Season generously:** Cabbage can be bland on its own, so be sure to season it generously with salt and pepper. You can also add other seasonings to your liking, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or smoked paprika.
* **Don’t overcook the cabbage:** Overcooked cabbage can become mushy and unappetizing. Cook the cabbage until it is tender but still has a slight bite.
* **Add a touch of acidity:** A splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice adds a bright, tangy flavor that balances the richness of the dish.
* **Experiment with different seasonings and vegetables:** Feel free to add other vegetables to the dish, such as carrots, bell peppers, or potatoes. You can also experiment with different seasonings, such as caraway seeds, cumin, or chili powder.

## Variations and Additions

This fried cabbage recipe is a blank canvas for your culinary creativity. Here are a few variations and additions to try:

* **Sausage:** Add cooked sausage, such as kielbasa or Italian sausage, to the dish for a heartier meal. Slice the sausage and add it to the skillet along with the onion.
* **Potatoes:** Add diced potatoes to the skillet along with the onion. Cook the potatoes until they are tender before adding the cabbage.
* **Carrots:** Add shredded carrots to the skillet along with the onion. The carrots will add sweetness and color to the dish.
* **Bell peppers:** Add diced bell peppers to the skillet along with the onion. The bell peppers will add a slightly sweet and peppery flavor.
* **Mushrooms:** Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet along with the onion. The mushrooms will add an earthy flavor and meaty texture.
* **Apples:** Add diced apples to the skillet along with the onion. The apples will add sweetness and a touch of tartness.
* **Caraway seeds:** Add a teaspoon of caraway seeds to the skillet along with the cabbage. Caraway seeds add a traditional flavor that pairs well with cabbage.
* **Smoked paprika:** Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the skillet along with the cabbage. Smoked paprika adds a smoky flavor that complements the bacon.
* **Red pepper flakes:** Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet along with the cabbage for a touch of heat.
* **Soy sauce:** Add a tablespoon of soy sauce to the skillet along with the broth for a savory umami flavor.
* **Brown sugar:** Add a teaspoon of brown sugar to the skillet along with the broth for a touch of sweetness.
* **Vegan Fried Cabbage:** Omit the bacon and use plant-based bacon alternatives or add a tablespoon or two of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add other vegetables, such as mushrooms, carrots, and bell peppers, to make it a more substantial meal.

## Serving Suggestions

Fried cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic is a versatile dish that can be served in a variety of ways:

* **As a side dish:** Serve it alongside roasted chicken, pork chops, or steak.
* **As a main course:** Serve it with a side of mashed potatoes or rice.
* **As a topping:** Use it as a topping for burgers, sandwiches, or tacos.
* **In a bowl:** Serve it in a bowl with a fried egg on top for a quick and easy meal.
* **With corned beef:** A classic pairing for St. Patrick’s Day or any time you’re craving comfort food.

## Storage and Reheating

* **Storage:** Store leftover fried cabbage in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
* **Reheating:** Reheat the fried cabbage in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You can also reheat it in the microwave, but it may become slightly soggy. A toaster oven or air fryer can also reheat small batches effectively. Consider adding a small amount of oil or broth during reheating to prevent drying.

## Nutritional Information (Approximate)

(Per serving, based on a recipe serving 6)

* Calories: 250-350
* Fat: 15-25g
* Saturated Fat: 5-10g
* Cholesterol: 30-50mg
* Sodium: 400-600mg
* Carbohydrates: 10-15g
* Fiber: 3-5g
* Sugar: 5-7g
* Protein: 8-12g

*Note: Nutritional information can vary depending on specific ingredients and portion sizes.*

## Fried Cabbage: A Recipe for All Seasons

Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight meal or a comforting side dish, this fried cabbage recipe is sure to please. With its simple ingredients, customizable flavors, and easy preparation, it’s a dish that you’ll make again and again. So, gather your ingredients, fire up your skillet, and get ready to enjoy a delicious and satisfying meal of savory fried cabbage with bacon, onion, and garlic!