Description
This Easy Fried Cabbage Recipe is a flavorful Southern-inspired side dish where tender cabbage is sautéed with crispy bacon, onions, and garlic. Enhanced with optional paprika and butter for richness, this dish offers a comforting and hearty complement to any meal. Perfectly cooked on the stovetop, it features a delicious balance of savory and slightly smoky flavors, making it a beloved classic.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
- 1 medium head green cabbage, cored and chopped
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika (optional)
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for richness)
Instructions
- Cook the bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, add the chopped bacon and cook until crispy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon pieces and set them aside, leaving the bacon grease in the skillet.
- Sauté the onion: Add the diced onion to the bacon grease in the skillet. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent, approximately 3 to 4 minutes.
- Add the garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Cook the cabbage: Add the chopped cabbage to the skillet, tossing it to coat evenly in the bacon grease and onion mixture. Season with salt, black pepper, and paprika if using. Cook the cabbage over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it is tender and lightly browned. This step usually takes 10 to 15 minutes.
- Combine and finish: Stir the cooked bacon back into the skillet. Add a pat of butter if desired for extra richness and flavor. Mix well to combine everything thoroughly.
- Serve hot: Remove from heat and transfer the fried cabbage to a serving dish. Serve immediately as a savory side dish.
Notes
- You can substitute smoked sausage or ham for bacon if preferred for a different flavor profile.
- Adding a splash of apple cider vinegar at the end can provide a pleasant tangy twist to the dish.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste preferences.
- For a richer dish, use the optional butter, but it’s also delicious without it to keep it lighter.
