Fried Cabbage with Onions and Bacon

Fried Cabbage with Onions and Bacon is a delicious and simple side dish that pairs well with almost any meal. The savory flavor of bacon combined with tender cabbage and onions makes this dish irresistible. Let’s gather the ingredients you’ll need for this easy recipe.

INGREDIENTS

• 1 head of cabbage, chopped: The main ingredient, providing a tender and slightly sweet base.
• 1 onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
• 2 tsp minced garlic: Enhances the flavor with a subtle garlic taste.
• 5 strips of bacon, cooked and crumbled: Adds a savory and smoky flavor to the dish.
• Reserved bacon grease: Used for sautéing the onions and cabbage, adding extra flavor.
• 1/2 tsp onion powder: Intensifies the onion flavor.
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Boosts the garlic taste.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning the dish to your preference.

INSTRUCTIONS

Step 1:

Cook the bacon in a skillet until crispy. Set it aside to cool, then crumble it. Reserve the bacon grease.

Step 2:

Place the reserved bacon grease in a deep-sided pot or skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it is softened, about 5 minutes.

Step 3:

Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4:

Reduce the heat to medium-low and add the chopped cabbage to the pot. Stir to combine, then cover and simmer until the cabbage has softened, about 10-15 minutes.

Step 5:

Stir in the onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Sauté for another 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Step 6:

Add the crumbled bacon to the top of the cabbage and serve hot.

Serving and Storage Tips

• Serve the Fried Cabbage with Onions and Bacon as a side dish alongside roasted meats, grilled chicken, or fish for a hearty and flavorful meal.
• For a complete meal, pair it with mashed potatoes or steamed rice.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
• This dish can also be prepared ahead of time and reheated just before serving, making it perfect for meal prep or family gatherings.

Helpful Notes

• For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use olive oil or butter for sautéing the onions and cabbage.
• If you prefer a bit of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic powder and onion powder.
• Feel free to experiment with different types of cabbage, such as red cabbage or Savoy cabbage, for a unique twist on this classic dish.

Tips from well-known chefs

• Chef Julia Child recommends always tasting and adjusting the seasoning at the end of cooking to ensure the flavors are well-balanced.
• Chef Jamie Oliver suggests using smoked bacon for an extra depth of flavor.
• Chef Ina Garten advises letting the cabbage caramelize slightly in the pot for a richer taste.